Wasabi reports £1.26m loss in FY2025 despite higher sales

The group saw turnover increase 2.8% in 2025.

Wasabi reported a £1.26m loss for the financial 52-week period ending 27 December 2025 despite reporting higher revenue, as inflationary labour costs weighed on earnings even as the sushi chain continued to expand its restaurant network and grocery business.

Turnover rose 2.8% to £125.1m from £121.7m a year earlier, supported by restaurant expansion and continued growth initiatives. However, operating profit before exceptional costs fell to £2.8m from £4.1m, whilst EBITDA declined 5.9% to £6.9m.

The company said higher labour costs, including the impact of changes announced in the UK government's Autumn Budget, prompted modest price increases across both its restaurant and grocery businesses to help offset inflation.

Wasabi's restaurant division delivered sales growth despite a softer consumer environment. The company opened four restaurants, closed one, and refurbished four others during the year, increasing its estate to 42 restaurants. Sales were partly affected by the temporary closure of its Liverpool Street Station location during its relocation to a larger site.

The grocery division remained the strongest growth area, with sales increasing 16.4% year on year, driven by the full-year contribution of launches at Co-op and Morrisons, additional distribution at Morrisons, and new product introductions.

The company also continued investing in manufacturing automation, restaurant refurbishments and infrastructure, whilst building a pipeline of new restaurant openings. It said it is exploring franchise expansion after its first franchised site at Luton Airport traded ahead of expectations.