Strada group ‘not ready to sell up yet'

Speculation that the Strada group of Italian restaurants is looking for a buyer are premature, according to an industry source.

Instead, the group is actively in negotiations to purchase up to five new sites, including venues in Brighton, Windsor, Chichester and Sevenoaks.

Strada currently had plenty of scope to continue growing organically, added the source. "The group has always said it wanted 50 sites before considering selling, and this would increase the profits and potential sale price. But it's a great group with a brand that can easily be rolled out and it may happen sooner than that."

The group has 25 Strada restaurants, two Belgo outlets and three Bierodromes.