Pre Close Trading

RNS Number:1202T
Regent Inns PLC
11 December 2003

11th December 2003

                                 Regent Inns Plc

                         Pre-close period trading update


Regent Inns Plc today reports that year-on-year sales from continuing operations
have increased by 14.9% in the 22 weeks ended 6 December 2003 and like-for-like
sales for the same period for Walkabout and Jongleurs have declined by 6.9%.

At the beginning of the financial year, 23 unbranded pubs were being marketed
for sale. Good progress has been made and six pubs have been sold, contracts
have been exchanged on a further six pubs and a further four pubs are under
offer. The proceeds received and currently anticipated are very similar to those
anticipated at the year end.

Whilst trading conditions on the High Street remain difficult and a strong
performance in the key month of December is important, the Board expects full
year earnings to be in line with current market expectations.

The interim results for the 26 weeks ending 3 January 2004 are expected to be
announced on 5 February 2004.

                                    - Ends -


For further information, please contact:

Regent Inns plc                              Tel. [phone]
Stephen Haupt, Chief Executive
Simon Rowe, Finance Director

Merlin Financial                             Tel. [phone]
Paul Downes                                  Mob. [phone]
Vanessa Maydon                               Mob. [phone]



                      This information is provided by RNS
            The company news service from the London Stock Exchange

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