The positive trading momentum SSP saw in the first eight weeks of Q1 to 25 November, with like-for-like (LFL) sales growth of 4% (as reported at our FY Results), has continued through the remainder of the quarter with LFL sales growth of 5% for Q1 overall. SSP expectations for FY26 remain unchanged.
In the UK & Ireland, sales rose by 8% YoY (on a constant currency basis), with sustained strong LFL sales. SSP says they were pleased by the performance in air and in our M&S estate (across both Air and Rail).
More broadly, SSP says they are seeing the benefits of a strengthened customer proposition as a result of the refresh and renewal programmes. SSP Group operates restaurants, bars, cafes and other food and beverage outlets in travel locations across 38 countries.
Patrick Coveney, chief executive of SSP Group, said: "We have made a good start to the financial year, with LFL sales growth of 5% in the first quarter. We are on track against our ‘Focus 26’ operational plan with a range of programmes underway to deliver sustained improvements in profitability, cash and returns on capital. Given this momentum, we remain confident in our prospects for the balance of FY26 and beyond.”