The Evolution of Transport Hub Business Models: Top Operators and Key Trends
Transport hubs—railway stations, airports, and motorway service stations—are evolving beyond mere transit points to dynamic retail and hospitality ecosystems. As consumer behaviours shift and operational costs rise, businesses are adapting with innovative models to maximise revenue while maintaining high service levels.
The Top Four Transport Hub Operators in the UK
1. SSP Group (Select Service Partner)
A major player in transport hub food and beverage (F&B), operating brands across rail, airport, and motorway locations.
Recent financials show £2.5 billion revenue in 2024, with a profit margin of 8%.
Expanding through premium coffee, grab-and-go outlets, and travel-friendly dining concepts.
Facing rising rental costs, particularly in prime airport locations, prompting partnerships with established chains.
2. Moto Hospitality
One of the UK’s largest motorway service station operators, with a portfolio including M&S Food, Costa, and Greggs.
Generated £1.2 billion revenue in 2024, focusing on convenience retail and fast food.
Investing in EV charging infrastructure to attract eco-conscious travelers.
3. Welcome Break
Operating over 50 motorway service stations, partnering with Starbucks, Subway, and KFC.
Reported £850 million in revenue, with steady growth in drive-thru services.
Challenges include rising fuel prices reducing road traffic, affecting footfall.
4. Roadchef
Known for providing travel convenience and dining brands like McDonald’s and LEON.
Annual revenue surpasses £700 million, with increasing investment in digital ordering.
Rental costs rising, with a 6% increase in service station lease agreements.
Trends Reshaping the Transport Hub Market
1. Higher Rents and Profit Pressures
The cost of leasing space at transport hubs has risen by 10-15% since 2022, making profitability a growing challenge. Many operators are shifting to a franchise model to offset operational costs.
2. Tech-Driven Customer Experience
The introduction of self-checkout kiosks, mobile ordering, and AI-driven demand forecasting is enhancing efficiency while reducing labor costs.
3. Premiumisation and Brand Collaboration
There is a growing demand for higher-quality food offerings, leading to partnerships between service operators and premium brands such as Pret A Manger and Leon.
4. Sustainable Travel Impact
With sustainability a key focus, hubs are adapting with EV charging stations, plant-based menu options, and waste reduction initiatives.
How Percy Can Help
As transport hubs evolve, Percy provides an AI-powered purchasing platform that helps businesses streamline procurement, optimise supplier relationships, and drive cost efficiencies. By leveraging real-time data and intelligent automation, Percy enables transport hub operators and hospitality brands to manage sourcing, track spending, and make informed purchasing decisions with ease.
Discover how Percy can revolutionise your supply chain and procurement strategy. Visit Percy Labs today!