New vegan menus helped the owner of pizza chain Franco Manca return to profit.

After a £100,000 loss last year, parent firm The Fulham Shore reported a £1.4million profit for the year to March 31.

The company, which also owns The Real Greek restaurants, said this was after sales surged 17 per cent to £64million.

After a £100,000 loss last year Franco Manco's parent firm The Fulham Shore reported a £1.4million profit for the year to March 31

It said the jump in popularity means it now has the confidence to ramp up plans to open more branches – after a profit warning previously forced it to rein in its ambitions.

Sales were boosted by ‘guest pizzas’ at Franco Manca created by top chefs, as well as a vegan menu at The Real Greek.

The bumper performance has prompted the company to consider paying a dividend in the current financial year.

The company, which is focused on London, said it wants to have more than 68 restaurants by the end of March.

Fulham Shore boss David Page said: ‘We are pleased to report the demand for both of our businesses continues to grow.’