MANAMA: Transportation and Telecommunications Minister and Gulf Air Group Holding chairman Kamal Ahmed signed an agreement with SSP, a leading global operator of food and beverage (F&B) concessions in travel locations, to invest in and operate F&B offerings at Bahrain International Airport’s (BIA) new passenger terminal.

Buhindi Group chief executive Michael Murphy, SSP managing director for Eastern Europe and Middle East George Antoniou, Gulf Air Group Holding CEO, Paul Kehoe, Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) CEO Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah and other officials from both companies attended.

The 10-year agreement is for the development and operation of 17 F&B outlets at the new terminal.

The minister expressed his delight at signing the agreement, noting that it supports BAC’s objectives to provide an improved airport experience and meet the evolving needs of passengers travelling through the new terminal.

“This reflects the long-standing tradition of hospitality that Bahrain is known for, and will help us achieve a sustainable competitive advantage, enhancing BIA’s leading reputation in the region,” Mr Ahmed said.

“Having the right tenants and service providers in place is essential to meet the objectives of the Airport Modernisation Programme and the needs of passengers travelling through BIA.”

“The new terminal building’s well-considered mix of F&B outlets, which are spread across 3,150 sqm in the Departures Areas, will play an important role in transforming BIA into a commercial hub and a driver of growth for the national economy, in line with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030,” he said.

“With several leading global brands making their regional debut, BIA will become a leading dining destination.”

Mr Antoniou said: “We are proud to be working in collaboration with Bahrain airport to create the best airport experience in the region with a unique style of concepts for 17 units with some brands that have never been seen before in Bahrain.

“With our strong range of bespoke, local and international brands and cutting-edge design, our intention is to create an openhearted environment that captures the true spirit of hospitality and heritage of Bahrain culture.

“The design of the new terminal at BIA is outstanding, and we are looking forward to welcoming new customers to our magnificent range of units that will cement our reputation in this important market,” he added.

In addition to some well-known quick-service favourites and local brands, SSP Group will bring about a number of regional debuts, including the first TGI Fridays in an airport in the Gulf, and the Middle East’s first Jamie’s Deli and Pizzeria – a combined concept from celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

SSP Group’s other offerings at the new passenger terminal will include Lumee, a well-known Bahraini concept; Illy Caffe, a world-famous coffee brand; Millie’s Cookies, a popular UK concept (first in Bahrain); Ya Salam, a local favourite; Levito, an Italian concept (first in Bahrain); Burger King; KFC; Jaipur Café, an Indian concept (first in Bahrain); Upper Crust and Camden Food, a grab and go food concept (first in Bahrain); and Ritazza, an Italian coffee shop concept (first in Bahrain).

With more than 450 brands in its portfolio, SSP Group has a presence at approximately 140 airports and 280 rail stations, operating more than 2,500 units in more than 30 countries around the world.

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