Belfast International Airport awards SSP 10-year F&B contract

Belfast International Airport has awarded SSP a new 10-year contract to expand and refresh its food and beverage offer as part of a wider £100m investment programme.

Under the agreement, SSP will increase its operations at the airport to nine units across airside and landside, adding new outlets and refurbishing existing ones as the next phase of the airport’s redevelopment progresses.

The airport is midway through a five-year programme aimed at improving passenger experience, with recent work including the opening of a new security hall. Food and drink upgrades will form a central part of the next stage of the project.

SSP’s portfolio will include a new casual dining restaurant aimed at families and groups, alongside grab-and-go options. Brands confirmed for the airport include Soul & Grain from SSP’s own portfolio, as well as Starbucks and Burger King.

Existing venues will also be updated, including The Lagan bar, which will be expanded and refurbished, and the introduction of a new 300-cover premium bar and kitchen concept.

Kari Daniels, chief executive of SSP UK and Ireland, said: “We have worked with Belfast International Airport for over two decades, so we’re excited to be growing our footprint together once again at such a pivotal moment in the airport’s history.

“Providing choice is one of our core goals to ensure that we meet the needs of every passenger. We look forward to bringing a few of our most popular own brand concepts to the airport for the first time alongside a fresh look for some enduring favourites.”

The new outlets will feature locally inspired menus using regional suppliers, with designs intended to reflect Northern Ireland’s culture and landmarks.

Dan Owens, chief executive of Belfast International Airport, added: “Northern Ireland is famous the world over for its hospitality and fantastic produce and we want to reflect that in the airport through this next phase of investment.”