Wasabi, the popular sushi and bento restaurant and grocery brand, has reached a significant milestone with the opening of its first franchised location at London Luton Airport, in collaboration with global travel retail giant Lagardère Travel Retail.
Scheduled to open in mid-July, the new restaurant will bring Wasabi’s signature fresh, handmade Japanese cuisine to one of the UK’s busiest travel hubs. Situated in the main terminal, the 107 sqm location features a 30-seat dine-in area and a convenient grab-and-go counter — perfect for travellers catching early morning flights or late-night departures.
Operated by franchise partner Lagardère, the new restaurant has been designed as a vibrant, welcoming space that reflects the freshness and quality at the heart of the Wasabi brand. This launch marks the start of an exciting new chapter as Wasabi begins its franchise journey.
Henry Birts, Chief Executive Officer at Wasabi said: “We’re incredibly excited to bring Wasabi to Luton Airport through our first-ever 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 location builds on Wasabi’s mission to bring high-quality Japanese cuisine to a wider audience. It follows the successful launch of the brand’s latest high-street restaurant on King William Street in London, along with the recent introduction of elevated menu innovations like the premium Omakase Box for summer.
Peter Newbould, CEO of Lagardère Travel Retail UK & Ireland, commented: “We’re delighted to be expanding our food & beverage portfolio with the introduction of Wasabi’s permanent airport restaurant at London 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 offer Wasabi’s full menu of fresh sushi, bento, hot meals, and snacks, along with an exclusive breakfast menu — a first for the brand. Morning offerings include the Korean BBQ Bacon Sando, Pumpkin Katsu & Mushroom Sando, Salmon and Avocado Potto, and a variety of hot drinks. Whether travellers are looking to sit and relax or grab a quick bite on the go, the new Wasabi location delivers a convenient, high-quality dining experience for all.
This opening represents the latest step in Wasabi’s ongoing expansion and innovation within the travel and hospitality sector.
