Belfast International Airport and SSP to transform food and beverage offer as part of new ten year contract

SSP Group, a leading operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations worldwide, will open a series of new and refreshed units as part of Belfast International Airport’s £100 million investment program.   

The airport has embarked on a five-year journey to transform passenger experiences, with improvements already underway such as its new state-of-the-art security hall. In the next phase of the redevelopment, food travel experts SSP will invest in and grow its existing operations to 9 units to deliver a greater range of F&B outlets offering something for everyone.

SSP will operate a diverse airside and landside portfolio including a new casual dining restaurant ideal for families and larger groups alongside grab-and-go options such as Soul & Grain from its own brand portfolio, Starbucks and Burger King.

These will be complemented by several other new and refreshed units. This includes airport bar, The Lagan, which will increase its capacity and be given a new look while maintaining its iconic atmosphere, and a brand new 300-cover premium bar and kitchen concept.

“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. The changes we’re making as part of its redevelopment will showcase the best Northern Ireland has to offer for those living in and visiting the city,” said Kari Daniels, CEO of SSP UK & Ireland. “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 food and drink outlets will celebrate Northern Ireland and Belfast’s rich culture, history and landmarks, with locally inspired dishes using regional suppliers and ingredients. They will be the centrepiece of the airport’s redeveloped terminal, transforming the existing space into a modern, passenger-friendly hub of dining options.

Dan Owens, Chief Executive of Belfast International Airport said: “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. We are committed to ensuring that every passenger has a memorable experience when travelling and an elevated food and beverage offering is central to that.”