Students boost Varsity figures

October 21, 2006: Pub operator Barracuda's Varsity brand has increased its sales by 18 per cent since its target student audience returned to their studies this autumn.

Barracuda has opened five new Varsity bars since last year and was also the first pub chain to introduce free Wi-Fi access.

Mark McQuater, Barracuda Group chief executive, said: “This growth demonstrates the strength and success of Varsity as an award-winning brand in the important niche student market. It is the fastest growing brand in this area and that is down to the way we effectively re-launch the brand year on year, bringing a new and fresh offer to our customers.”

Varsity offers a loyalty card - the VCard - for £2 which entitles holders to 25 per cent off selected drinks plus various other special offers at the 35 Varsity bars across the UK.