Wagamama, the Duke Street Capital-backed group, has secured its first site in Italy, after signing a deal to launch in the country last July, MCA has learnt.
The company, which currently operates more than 160 restaurants located in 19 countries around the world, will open in the Orio Center, just outside Bergamo in the coming months.
One of the most popular shopping centers in Italy, the Orio Center is home to over 200 shops and a hypermarket, with a retail area of approximately 65,000sqm and 6,000 parking spaces.
Last July, the company signed an agreement with Percassi Food & Beverage to make its debut in Italy. It is set to open its first site in France, in Paris, this autumn and make its debut in Spain this April, in Madrid. It is also believed to be exploring opportunities in Germany.
Brian Johnston, managing director of Wagamama International, said: “We are excited about our imminent arrival in Italy. The opening of the extension Orio Center marks the first expansion step of Wagamama in Italy. We look forward to receiving the first comments from our new Italian customers.”
Percassi has a long record of strong partnerships with businesses including Benetton, Nike, Gucci, Levi’s, Zara, Victoria’s Secret and LEGO Group. Percassi is also famous for its own brands, such as KIKO Milano in cosmetics.
Matteo Percassi, chief executive of Percassi Food & Beverage, said: “For us, this is an important partnership. The Wagamama family stands for great quality food and outstanding customer service and we have no doubt that the Italian people will take Wagamama to their hearts.”
