SSP Group plc has strengthened its market presence by acquiring a controlling stake in Travel Food Services Limited, alongside a robust trading performance that indicates promising growth in travel food service sectors.

Information on the Target

SSP Group plc is a prominent operator of restaurants, bars, cafes, and various food and beverage outlets situated in travel locations across 38 countries. The company has recently issued its Trading Update for the third quarter of its 2025 financial year, covering the period from April 1 to June 30, 2025. In this update, SSP reported a 6% increase in group sales year-on-year on a constant currency basis, alongside like-for-like sales growth of 3%. The overall sales performance included net contract gains of 4% as well as a minor contribution from acquisitions.

Additionally, SSP's Q3 performance was impacted by a 2% decrease due to the staged exit from its German Motorway Services business and adjustments related to the deconsolidation of its AAHL joint venture in India. The company noted varying sales growth across different regions, with the most significant performance in Asia-Pacific (APAC) and emerging markets (EEME), which saw an upward trend driven by passenger growth.

Industry Overview in the Target’s Specific Country

The travel and food services sector within Europe faces unique challenges and opportunities. For instance, the ongoing impact of geopolitical events has altered consumer behavior and travel patterns. In North America, SSP noticed a decline in like-for-like sales due to redu