SmokeFree

Welsh brewer and pub operator SA Brain has reported strong sales since the smokefree legislation was introduced in Wales on 2 April. Like-for-like sales at Brain's 110 managed houses were up compared to the Easter weekend in 2006.

Brain's retail director Philip Lay said "It is far too soon to judge the longer term impact of the smoking ban but we have had a good start"

"We have enjoyed exceptional weather in Wales over the last two weeks that has bought people out. Trade has been beyond our expectations and I'd like to think that the good performance was in part due to the work we've undertaken in preparation. It has been a gentle breaking in of the ban."

Originally reported in the Morning Advertiser