The FINANCIAL -- Competition among pub chains has remained fierce following Christmas, with several operators offering or extending keenly-priced food deals, according to Caterer and Hotelkeeper.

Barracuda pub group yesterday announced that it would extend its January sale into February, offering light meals targeting older customers, which it dubbed the "grey market" for £2.99. Dishes include pub favourites such as fish, chips and peas, scampi and chips, and sausage, mash and gravy.

It is also offering a 125ml glass of Kumala wine for 99p, and is giving its 3,500 employees and their friends and family a 25% discount on food offered in their pubs.

Meanwhile, managed pub chain JD Wetherspoon has started marketing two meals for £6.49, although price and participation at individual outlets is expected to vary.

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