News

SSP Group, a leading operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations worldwide, has opened a spectacular new Food Park at Abu Dhabi, featuring an array of internationally renowned brands and local concepts, selected to appeal to the unique passenger profile of the airport.

Sustainability has been high on the agenda of Abu Dhabi Airports for the new terminal since the initial stage of conception to design and build, and the project has achieved a 3 Pearl Estidama environmental rating – the highest score that can be awarded to a government building. Reflecting its own sustainability objectives, SSP has implemented many sustainable practices during the build and operation of its new units, including the use of reclaimed wood, water-based air-conditioning to reduce the consumption of energy and the introduction of operational efficiencies to reduce the impact on the environment.

The Food Park, which spans 1,770 square metres and is located airside, accommodates up to 700 guests. With a strong sense of place and serving a wide variety of food options, the park is expected to appeal to those working at the airport as well as travellers.

The brand mix has been carefully curated to meet the needs of the passengers travelling though the terminal. A number of SSP’s own brands feature, including coffee shop Ritazza, Camden food co., which offers a selection of healthy dishes as well as indulgent treats, and Levito, which boasts a menu of Italian dishes, including pizza, pastas and tiramisu.

Customers wanting to taste Indo-Asian foods can visit Patamar, which was developed by SSP specifically for the airport, and serves classic Indian dishes such as curries alongside Asian dishes including Filipino breakfast silog, sushi and ramen.

SSP has also partnered with a number of franchise brands, such as Operation Falafel which is a Dubai-born Arabic street food brand, serving an authentic selection of traditional Middle Eastern food with a 21st century twist. Fast food concept Texas Chicken serves fresh fried chicken and a variety of sandwiches, wraps and Texan-style sides including honey butter biscuits.

The development also features high-profile global brands, including TGI Fridays, the casual dining restaurant which serves signature glazed ribs, steaks, cocktails and mocktails, and fast food brand Burger King. A Mövenpick Ice Cream cart complements the offer.

In addition to the Food Park and adding an element of luxury, Butlers Chocolate Café is the first of its kind in Abu Dhabi. At the café, which is the first ever with a bar offer, customers will be able to choose from a wide range of barista-prepared coffees and teas, as well as decadent chocolate drinks, served with a complimentary chocolate of the customer’s choice. Specially crafted cocktails, whiskeys and bourbons are also available. Measuring 172 metres, Butlers Chocolate Café has seating for just under 100 guests.

Maureen Bannerman, Chief Commercial Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, said; “We are delighted to welcome SSP Group and their one-of-a-kind, innovative Food Park to Abu Dhabi International Airport. Their hospitality experience and multiple cuisine offerings further adds to the wide array of customer services available to our passengers at the state-of-the-art Terminal A. With 163 food & beverage and retail options, Terminal A elevates the airport experience.”

Due to the significant scale of the venture, over 60 new jobs have been created. Where possible digital elements such as self-ordering kiosks and digital menu boards have been added across the development to enhance the customer experience. Ample charging points are also provided.

“These new openings are a testament to our strong relationship with our colleagues at Abu Dhabi Airports and their belief in us as a trusted and reliable commercial partner,” said Mark Angela, CEO of India and Eastern Europe and Middle East. “Over the past 15 years since we began operating here, our partnership has gone from strength to strength, and we have seen our business grow considerably. Our dedication to providing the highest quality food and service has stood us in good stead, and we are committed to continuing to exceed expectations over the life of the new contract. Throughout the process, we’ve gone to great lengths to ensure that our planning complements the outstanding design of the new terminal, ensuring that the food and beverage offer is an eye-catching focal-point on the Mezzanine level and a real ‘beacon’ for travellers. These outstanding bars, restaurants and cafes capture the true spirit of Emirati culture and will cement our reputation in this important market.”