Luminar Group, the operator of Oceana and Liquid nightclubs, has reported a 3.3 per cent decrease in like-for-like sales during the 18 weeks to 2 July 2009, despite an increase in admission revenues.

The company said that lower retail prices had contributed towards a 5.4 per cent fall in drinks revenues compared with the same period last year, and that it would not be looking to entice customers to spend more through promotional offers. In a statement, Luminar said: "Trading conditions in the late night sector are very competitive and we expect market conditions to remain difficult in the short term.

"However, the group is confident that, given the strength of the estate, together with operational and marketing expertise and a well trained workforce, it will continue to outperform competitors." The company also operates the Life, Lava and Ignite and The Jamhouse chains.