Wagamama Owner Explores Sale of Airport and Rail Hub Dining Division

The Restaurant Group, owner of the Wagamama chain, is reportedly considering the sale of its airport and rail hub dining division as it reviews its portfolio and long term strategy. The unit operates across major UK transport locations and trades under more than 20 different brands, serving millions of passengers each year.

The company is backed by Apollo Global Management, which acquired The Restaurant Group as part of a broader investment strategy in the hospitality sector. According to reports, advisers have been appointed to explore options for the travel focused arm, although no final decision has been made.

The airport and rail division includes a mix of casual dining and quick service concepts tailored to high footfall transport hubs. These outlets operate in some of the country’s busiest airports and mainline railway stations, offering food and beverage options to both domestic and international travellers. The business has historically generated steady revenues due to the resilience of travel related demand, though performance can fluctuate with passenger volumes and economic conditions.

A potential sale would allow The Restaurant Group to sharpen its focus on core brands such as Wagamama, which has become one of the most recognisable names in the UK casual dining market. Wagamama has expanded both domestically and internationally, with growth supported by delivery services and franchise partnerships.

Industry analysts say the review reflects a wider trend among hospitality groups seeking to streamline operations and concentrate on higher margin or more scalable brands. Transport hub dining businesses can offer strong turnover, but they are often subject to concession agreements and higher operating costs tied to premium locations.

The timing of the move comes as the UK hospitality sector continues to navigate rising labour costs, higher business rates and changes in consumer spending patterns. While passenger numbers at airports and railway stations have recovered in recent years, operators remain sensitive to shifts in travel demand and broader economic uncertainty.

Apollo’s ownership has prompted speculation about further restructuring across The Restaurant Group’s portfolio. Private equity investors often seek to optimise assets, whether through disposals, refinancing or strategic repositioning. A sale of the travel division could unlock capital that may be reinvested into brand development or used to strengthen the company’s balance sheet.

There has been no official confirmation regarding valuation or potential buyers, and discussions are understood to be at an early stage. Market observers note that infrastructure and hospitality investors may show interest, particularly those seeking exposure to travel related consumer spending.

Shares and sector peers are likely to monitor developments closely as investors assess the implications for the broader restaurant and leisure market. Any transaction would be one of the more notable portfolio adjustments in the UK dining sector this year, highlighting continued consolidation and strategic realignment within the industry.