Sphera Franchise Group (SFG), the largest group in the Romanian food service industry, has announced the expansion of its portfolio by acquiring the franchise rights for the international brand wagamama. This move marks the group’s entry into the pan-Asian restaurant segment and represents a strategic step in diversifying the ecosystem of brands operated on the local market, alongside KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell.
The announcement was officially transmitted to the Bucharest Stock Exchange (BVB), specifying that the project will be managed through a wholly-owned entity of Sphera Franchise Group. The first wagamama restaurant in Romania will open in Bucharest, with the inauguration estimated for late 2026 or early 2027. The brand, founded in London in 1992, is globally renowned for its Japanese-inspired menu, fast-casual service model, and “kaizen” operating philosophy, which emphasizes continuous evolution and change.
Călin Ionescu, CEO of Sphera Franchise Group, emphasized that the integration of wagamama aligns with the strategy of expanding into high-potential market segments, offering Romanian consumers new culinary experiences. In turn, Francisco Neves, Senior Vice President at wagamama, described Romania as a strategic opportunity for the brand. This new acquisition follows the recent inclusion of the Hard Rock Cafe and Cioccolatitaliani brands in the portfolio. Sphera Franchise Group currently operates a network of over 175 units in Romania, the Republic of Moldova, and Italy, and is the only HoReCa company included in the BET index.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the first wagamama open in Romania?
The first restaurant is expected to open in Bucharest in late 2026 or early 2027.
What kind of food does wagamama serve?
wagamama offers a pan-Asian menu inspired by Japanese cuisine, operating under a fast-casual model.
Who owns the wagamama franchise in Romania?
The franchise rights are held by Sphera Franchise Group, which also operates KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell.