Upper Crust owner SSP says Middle East disruption slows recent sales growth

Tuesday 19 May 2026 - 07:05

SSP Group, the owner of the well-known food chain Upper Crust, announced that recent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have affected passenger traffic in some parts of Asia and Europe, leading to slower sales growth during recent weeks.

The company stated that like-for-like sales increased by 3% during the first six weeks of the second half of its financial year. This marks a slowdown compared with the 5% growth recorded during the previous two quarters between October and March.

According to SSP Group, weaker passenger flows linked to the Iran conflict contributed to the softer performance in several travel hubs. The company operates restaurants, cafés, and food outlets in airports and railway stations across many countries.

Despite the slower growth, SSP said its annual financial outlook remains consistent with market expectations. The group highlighted stronger performances in other regions, which helped balance the impact of disruptions in affected markets.

SSP Group continues to focus on international expansion and travel-related food services as global mobility gradually stabilizes despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.