The third busiest airport in the UK has hopes for a first-class departure lounge
In good news for anyone who’s ever perched on their hand luggage while eating a meal deal, Manchester Airport has announced plans to open 27 new restaurants and retail units in its remodelled Terminal Two.
As part of a £1.3bn transformation the terminal departure lounge will feature a food hall and champagne bar as well as a high street-style shopping area with airfield views known as The Avenue.
We are well aware that our guests’ holidays start at the airport and we want them to enjoy their time here
The plans were revealed as the airport begins the tendering process for the new units this month, with a view to announcing the successful applicants by next April.
With work expected to be completed by 2025, bosses are hopeful the new-look terminal will provide the third busiest airport in the UK with a first class point of departure.
Richard Jackson, Retail Director at Manchester Airport, said: “We are well aware that our guests’ holidays start at the airport and we want them to enjoy their time here - whether that means sipping craft beer brewed at the airport in a bar overlooking the airfield, or eating an artisan pizza.
“We already have a great range of food and drink options in Terminal Two, with local brands which create a strong sense of place, but we're looking to build on that with all-new offerings, including a champagne bar and a market hall style food court.
“We’re also seeking retail partners who will bring a high-class offering, tailored to the needs of the travelling public. The first phase of the project saw some exciting brands come on board, but we’re now keen to build on that and provide a more varied and comprehensive retail experience to cater for the tastes of the millions of passengers who will pass through the terminal’s doors.”
With a few local favourites - including Pot Kettle Black, San Carlo and Seven Bro7hers - already ensconced in the terminal following the completion of its first phase, the opportunity for an international audience is something Mancunian retailers should be snapping up.
Mark Flanagan, owner of Pot Kettle Black, said: “Opening an outlet in Manchester Airport together with our partners HMSHost UK has been an incredible experience. We started in Manchester nine years ago in just a small premises in Barton Arcade.
“Now through the branch in the airport we’re reaching customers who come from all over the world and we’re even seeing international customers visiting our city centre branches because they’ve been to the one in the airport. Back in 2014 we never thought we’d be an international brand but the airport branch is helping us do that.”
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