WETHERSPOON J D

Wetherspoons has introduced a blanket ban on customers playing music or taking calls on speaker across its 792 pubs following growing complaints about noise from smartphones and tablets. The company is asking patrons to switch phones to silent or use earphones, describing its venues as an “oasis of tranquillity”. Chair Tim Martin said the move aims to prevent customers being disturbed by amplified sound. » More on theguardian.com

JD Wetherspoon warned profits will fall short of market expectations after like-for-like sales rose only 4% in the 12 weeks to 19 July. The pub chain blamed weaker-than-expected sales plus higher costs for food, labour, repairs, energy and business rates, and said late World Cup kick-offs did not provide the usual boost. Shares fell about 10% and the group now expects net debt of £720m, broadly in line with last year and below earlier guidance. » More on theguardian.com

Wetherspoon has opened its first Continental European outlet, Castell de Santa Bàrbera, airside in Alicante Airport in partnership with Lagardère Travel Retail. The 1,000 sq ft pub with terrace operates daily 06:00–21:00 and combines classic Wetherspoon dishes with local Spanish options to appeal to the large British passenger base (about 33% of summer traffic). Lagardère says the concept is adapted for the travel environment while keeping Wetherspoon’s value proposition; a pint was advertised at €7.50 on opening day. Wetherspoon expects the Alicante unit to be included among 10–15 new pub openings in the current financial year to July 26, 2026. » More on forbes.com