Challenging conditions and poor weather keep turnover flat at Chameleon

Turnover at northern pubco Chameleon Bar & Dining remained largely flat for the 12 months to 31 March 2013, rising by just 0.22%.

The company, which operates six outlets across Yorkshire and Lancashire, described its accounts as "healthy", despite a backdrop of "challenging conditions in a volatile market". This, combined with poor weather throughout 2012, affected footfall at all outlets, but turnover still grew slightly to £4,491,729. However, an increase in operating costs led to a fall in profit of 2.94% to £261,537.

Chameleon, which is owned and run by managing director Phil Strong, finance director Barry Whitehead and chairman Alistair Arkley, said it intended to acquire more freehold properties.

Arkley commented: "Our move to a 'bar and dining' approach in early 2012 is proving successful and remains a strong strategy for the future.

"We've listened to our customers and suppliers and have built a vision for our business which filters clearly through the entire company.

"Offering good-quality food using locally sourced ingredients is a particular focus for the whole group and we'll continue to steer the business focus away from bar trade towards other lucrative sources of income."