Wasabi, the sushi and bento brand backed by Capdesia is to launch its first franchise site.
The company has partnered with global travel retailer, Lagardère Travel Retail, for the opening at Luton airport. Located in the main terminal, the new 107 square-metre restaurant will feature a 30-seat dine-in area and a grab-and-go counter.
Wasabi said the new restaurant, which will be operated by Lagardère and open in mid-July, marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as it embarks on its franchise journey.
Wasabi chief executive Henry Birts said: “We’re excited to bring Wasabi to Luton airport through our first franchise partnership with Lagardère. This opening represents a major step in our brand’s journey, as not only are we entering a new phase of growth through franchising, but we’re also opening in a location that perfectly suits our offering.
Transport hubs like Luton airport align seamlessly with our mission to make fresh, high-quality food accessible to people on the move. We see this as a significant step in our wider growth strategy, with plans to expand further across the UK.”
The new site follows the recent opening of the brand’s latest high-street location in King William Street in London, and the recent introduction of elevated menu innovations, such as the premium omakase box for summer.
Peter Newbould, chief executive of Lagardère Travel Retail UK & Ireland, said: “We’re delighted to be expanding our food and beverage portfolio with the introduction of Wasabi’s permanent airport restaurant at Luton airport. This opening strengthens our commitment to bringing exciting, high-quality dining options to passengers, blending convenience with fresh and flavourful global cuisine.”
The restaurant will serve Wasabi’s full range of fresh sushi, bento, hot meals, and snacks, along with an exclusive breakfast menu – a first for Wasabi – featuring items like the Korean barbecue bacon sando, pumpkin katsu and mushroom sando, salmon and avocado potto, and a selection of hot drinks. In December, Propel revealed the 42-strong Wasabi was exploring franchise opportunities to accelerate its growth.
