Hollywood Bowl Group (BOWL) Trading Update summary

Trading performance

• Achieved record revenue months in both the UK and Canada in December, with total revenue up 11.3% for the period, aligning with Board expectations.

• UK total revenue rose 8.0% and like-for-like (LFL) revenue increased 4.5%; Canada total revenue (constant currency) surged 40.8% with LFL up 14.2%.

• Splitsville centres in Canada saw total revenue up 37.2% and LFL revenue up 7.0%.

• Demand for affordable, family-friendly entertainment remains strong in both markets.

• December and New Year's Eve marked the highest ever monthly and daily revenues.

Strategic initiatives and estate development

• On track to reach 130 centres by 2035, with a robust pipeline for new openings and refurbishments in FY2025.

• UK: Two new centres opening in H1 FY2025, two more starting in February for H2, and five refurbishments planned.

• Canada: Two new centres opening in H1 FY2025, another starting for H1 FY2026, and five refurbishments planned.

• Recent openings and refurbishments (Swindon, Glamorgan) are performing in line with expectations.

Financial resilience and outlook

• Over 70% of group revenue is insulated from cost-of-goods inflation, supporting resilience to inflationary pressures.

• Strong cost culture and low UK labour-to-revenue ratio (<20%) help mitigate wage-related cost increases.

• Value proposition remains a key differentiator, with a family of four able to bowl for under £26.

• Confident outlook for FY2025, supported by a strong cash position and continued investment in growth.

• Focus remains on executing a customer-led strategy to generate attractive returns and enhance market leadership.