SSP expands into Bahrain with new international airport deal

Leisure operator SSP has secured a deal to open food and beverage units at Bahrain International Airport (BIA).

The agreement, signed with Bahrain Airport Company, is London-headquartered SSP’s first in the island kingdom.

The company will launch 17 units at the airport’s new terminal in partnership with Bahraini conglomerate Buhindi Group.

They will feature a mix of local and international brands, including the country’s first Jamie’s Deli & Pizzeria and TGI Fridays, a rooftop terrace called Sama by Alto and casual dining concept Lumee.

The new terminal space is part of a $1.1bn modernisation programme at BIA, expanding the facility to 125,000 sq ft and bumping capacity to 14 million passengers.

Mark Angela, chief commercial officer of SSP Group and CEO of the firm’s EEME region business, said: “We’re delighted to be entering Bahrain for the first time and have been working closely with BAC’s team to develop the right mix of bespoke concepts, along side an exciting range of local and international brands

“The design of the new terminal at BIA is outstanding, and we are looking forward to welcoming new customers to our wonderful range of units next year.”

Bahrain Airport Company CCO Ayman Zainal commented: “This is the first time we have gone to an external tender process for this type of activity, and we were delighted to receive a number of strong proposals.

“SSP offered a compelling range of brands and a well considered mix of local and international names and we are delighted to be partnering with them in this new venture to help put Bahrain on the international aviation map.”

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