UAE-listed MAIR Group signed an agreement to acquire a 70% stake in Eslab, the owner of Turkish specialty coffee chain Espressolab. The transaction marks MAIR’s first international acquisition since its listing on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) in December 2024.
The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed. Completion remains subject to regulatory approvals in the relevant jurisdictions and other customary closing conditions.
The deal also represents MAIR Group’s first investment in the coffee-shop sector as it looks to expand its portfolio beyond its core UAE retail and commercial real estate businesses.
Founded in 2014, Espressolab developed a predominantly franchise-led business with an international footprint. As of August 2026, the chain operated more than 400 coffee shops across 21 countries, including over 310 outlets in more than 50 Turkish cities.
Eslab’s operations extend beyond its café network. The company is involved in brand management, franchising, coffee sourcing and roasting, product supply, retail and digital sales.
Under the agreement, Espressolab’s founders and existing shareholders will retain a 30% stake in the company. They will also continue to support the business as it enters its next phase of growth.
Espressolab CEO Esat Kocadağ said, “ The partnership would support the company’s international expansion. The company plans to strengthen its franchise network, invest in its brand and customer experience, and expand across existing and new markets.”
MAIR Group Managing Director and Group CEO Nehayan Hamad Alameri said, “ The acquisition would diversify the group’s investment portfolio beyond its UAE retail and commercial real estate operations.” He also highlighted the potential to combine Espressolab’s international reach with MAIR’s investment and organisational capabilities.
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