Wasabi
Reporting on growth strategy, menu development, and operational performance at a UK-based quick-service brand specialising in sushi and hot Asian food-to-go. This section covers site openings, leadership updates, digital ordering, and F&B innovation, providing insight for operators and hospitality professionals tracking value-led, convenience-focused dining formats and the evolving role of grab-and-go in urban foodservice.
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Jul- 2025 -3 JulyCafes and Coffee Shops
How Matcha to open three-storey café in Notting Hill
Matcha bar brand, How Matcha, will open a new café on Ledbury Road in Notting Hill in September, marking its second site in London. The all-day café, which has built a following at its Marylebone venue, will occupy three floors at 52 Ledbury Road, offering 30 covers. The ground floor…
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1 JulyFood and Drink
Wasabi launches first franchise at Luton Airport
Wasabi has announced the launch of its first franchise at Luton Airport in partnership with global travel retailer, Lagardère Travel Retail. Set to open its doors in mid-July and located in the main terminal, the new 107 sqm restaurant features a 30-seat dine-in area and a grab-and-go counter. The new…
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Mar- 2025 -27 MarchNews-In-Brief
Today’s news in brief – 27/03/25
Restaurants continued to struggle for growth in delivery and takeaway sales in February, according to CGA by NIQ’s Hospitality at Home Tracker, which revealed that like-for-like sales were up by only 1.7% from the same period in the year before. Weak growth has been attributed to a squeeze on many…
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27 MarchFood and Drink
Wasabi to open new Central London venue
Wasabi has announced the opening of its latest location near Monument station in Central London, its first new opening in London for some time. The King William Street location spans approximately 1,600 sq ft and will offer 37 covers. The space features updated design elements, including new banquette seating, internal…
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Jan- 2025 -3 JanuaryNews-In-Brief
Today’s news in brief – 03/01/25
Boxpark’s turnover for the year to April 2024 dropped marginally to £19.9m, though the food operator said it is “confident” in its ability to secure further sites in 2026 and beyond. The group’s financial performance was impacted by a tougher macroeconomic environment with a drop in beverage sales partially offset…
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3 JanuaryFood and Drink
Wasabi eyes expansion amid return to profit
Wasabi has revealed that it posted a profit of £21.9m for the year ended 31 December 2023. The company stated that this was down to a “solid performance” which improved profitability as it balanced inflationary pressure with value for money for customers. As a result of this, the company stated…
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Nov- 2024 -5 NovemberBusiness
Hospitality leaders warn against Christmas tube strikes
UKHospitality has coordinated a letter signed by numerous hospitality groups in the UK warning against tube strikes over the Christmas period which can cost businesses up to 70% of daily sales. The letter is backed by the bosses of pub groups, Fuller’s, Greene King, Punch Pubs, Stonegate Group, Young’s –…
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1 NovemberRestaurants
Ikea unveils first Swedish restaurant in UK
Ikea has opened its first Swedish restaurant in Hammersmith, next to its recently revamped Ikea Hammersmith city store. The new restaurant is the first time Ikea has created an exclusive dining space on the high street. The space, formerly home to a Wasabi restaurant, has been kitted out to seat…
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Jul- 2024 -5 JulyNews
London’s Radio Rooftop reopens after £2.5m refurb
London rooftop bar Radio has officially reopened at ME London this week following an extensive £2.5m refurbishment programme. Located in the heart of the Strand, ME London celebrates 10 years of innovation and individuality with the reopening of Radio, renowned for its “spectacular views” of London’s skyline. Led by international…
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Mar- 2024 -13 MarchRestaurants
Apple Butter opens in Langham Place
Apple Butter is set to open its second site at 4-5 Langham Place on 15 March. Since opening its first café on Monmouth Street, Seven Dials in January 2020, Apple Butter has become a beloved Instagram-worthy brunch haven known for its perpetual queues down the street. Diverging from the flagship,…
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