Stelios Haji-Ioannou Reportedly Eyes Sale of EasyJet Stake Amid Strategic Shakeup
Stelios Haji-Ioannou, the founder of EasyJet and a prominent figure in the low-cost airline industry, is reportedly considering selling his remaining 15% stake in the airline, marking a significant shift in his association with the company. This development comes amid broader strategic shifts within EasyJet, including ongoing challenges from increased competition, post-pandemic recovery efforts, and operational restructuring.
Haji-Ioannou has previously clashed with EasyJet’s management over expansion strategies and financial decisions. In 2021, his stake in the airline was diluted from 25% after a rights issue he opted not to participate in, reducing his influence over major board decisions. Despite this, his stake remains substantial, valued at approximately £650 million, making any sale potentially impactful for EasyJet’s ownership structure and market valuation.
While he has stepped back from day-to-day management, Haji-Ioannou remains focused on his EasyGroup empire, which includes over 1,000 “easy” brands in various sectors, from hotels and car rentals to cinemas and financial services. The sale of his EasyJet shares could redirect his focus and resources toward furthering his diversified business and philanthropic endeavors.
This potential divestment is also reflective of the challenges EasyJet faces, including increased competition from rivals like Ryanair and Wizz Air. Analysts believe a change in shareholder composition might offer the airline new opportunities for strategic partnerships or investments, particularly as it considers options such as a dual listing to attract international investors.
Sir Stelios has not commented directly on the possible sale, but industry insiders suggest that his departure from EasyJet’s shareholder base could mark the end of an era for the airline, symbolizing its evolution from a founder-driven startup to a mature corporate entity.