HMSHost signs deal for Cara restaurants

HMSHost will purchase the Cara Operations Limited restaurants at in nine Canadian airports that generate yearly sales of approximately C$74 million (US$65 million).

Cara sold the operations to Bethesda, Maryland-based HMSHost for C$62 million (US$55 million). The purchase means approximately 90 food and beverage and retail outlets will be owned by HMSHost. Some of Cara’s most popular franchises, such as Second Cup coffee shops will be operated at the airports under franchise agreements with Cara.

Parties in the deal expect final closings in the second half of this year. "Host is a recognized leader in providing services to the traveling public and has an excellent reputation and track record with airport authorities across Canada," said Cara CEO Don Robinson, in a release on the purchase. "And with Host being focused on this aspect of the business, it assures our teammates of continuing opportunities."