LONDON, 2016-May-05 — /EPR Retail News/ — SSP, a leading operator of food and beverage brands in travel locations worldwide, has been awarded a contract to operate three food and beverage units and a substantial food court featuring a range of brands, in the International Departures Lounge at Abu Dhabi International Airport’s spectacular new Midfield Terminal Building. The deal, which is valued at approximately £280 million (1,500 million AED), will run for between five and ten years, depending on the unit.
The new Midfield Terminal Building will play an important role in raising the profile of Abu Dhabi as a world-class travel hub.
The deal will see SSP introduce a total of 17 brands, including a blend of prestigious local and international names as well as themed, bespoke, and uniquely designed concepts. Each unit is designed to fit the overall environment of the iconic new Midfield Terminal Building, and to help Abu Dhabi International Airport achieve its vision of offering passengers a world-class passenger experience.
The food court, named the Food Park, is inspired by Abu Dhabi’s Umm Al Emarat (Mushrif Central Park), one of the oldest and largest urban parks in the city and a hub for socialising and family fun. SSP’s Food Park offers a vibrant destination for foodies, and celebrates the culture and cuisine of 21st century Abu Dhabi.
The passenger mix at Abu Dhabi is one of the most diverse in the world. The concepts that SSP will be opening are perfectly suited to cater to this mix, whether the journey through the Midfield Terminal Building marks the start of a family holiday or an important business trip.
Commenting on the award, H.E. Eng. Mohamed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, chief executive officer of Abu Dhabi Airports said: “The F&B offering at the Midfield Terminal Building will challenge the very perception of F&B retailing in an airport environment thus far and will set the benchmark for dining concepts moving forward. Bearing in mind the wide demographic that we will be catering to, we are thrilled with the pioneering, avant-garde approaches that we have been able to gather together under one roof.”
Nick Inkster, chief executive officer, SSP WEMEAP said: “We always aim to exceed passengers’ expectations and we thrive on being a part of the ever-changing culinary scene, adapting our offer to shifting tastes and trends. Having had the privilege of being a significant F&B provider at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) for nearly a decade, we are delighted to be building on this important partnership. This deal will also pave the way for further development of our business in the wider Middle East region.”
Details of the full brand line up will be announced in due course.
Footnote – Sterling contract value dependent on exchange rate used.
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