Hollywood Bowl reports exceptionally strong revenue growth in the first half of the year

The company, which has issued a trading update for the six months ended 31 March 2022, said its strong performance was driven by the ongoing demand for high-quality and affordable experiential leisure.

The statement added: "As previously reported, the group started the financial year very well and despite a small impact from Omicron midway through the period, trading in February and March continued to be strong as customers sought out great value for money experiences."

"The group anticipates that its full year performance will be ahead of current market expectations."

"The strong, sustained financial performance and significant cash generation from the group's operations since reopening, means that the board intends to reinstate a dividend. A further update will be given at the group's interim results for the six months ended 31 March 2022, expected to be published on Wednesday, 25 May 2022."

Stephen Burns, Chief Executive Officer, said: "We have had an excellent start to the financial year, as a return to more normal operating conditions combined with strong demand and our customer-focused strategy, led to impressive sales growth and profits.

"We have continued to invest in our customer experience and in the growth and quality of our portfolio of bowling and mini-golf centres. We remain confident in the enduring consumer demand for fun-filled, experiential leisure activities that offer great value for money. The group's strong balance sheet supports our ability to invest in our organic growth strategy and to pursue further expansionary opportunities."