SSP Opens Outlets as Master F&B Concessionaire at New International Airport in China

SSP Group, a leading operator of food & beverage outlets in travel locations worldwide, has secured a deal which sees it develop the F&B offering at the new Huaguoshan International Airport, serving the port city of Lianyungang in Jiangshu region.

As the master concessionaire, SSP assumed a central role in the development of Huaguoshan Airport’s food & beverage portfolio. The three to five-year contract will see SSP operate five concession units throughout the airport, two landside and three airside.

SSP will introduce passengers to a mix of renowned international brands, SSP’s own concepts and much-loved local favorites. The line-up includes SSP’s Italian-style coffee brand Ritazza; global fast food chain Burger King; well-known Chinese restaurant A’Xiang Rice Noodle, which boasts over 600 downtown stores across China; and Rong Li Ji, which delivers the authentic taste of Sichuan cuisine with a modern twist.

The introduction of Rong Li Ji at Huaguoshan Airport marks SSP’s first venture with the well-known Chinese brand. Further units are expected to open at other locations across the region at a later date.

Reflecting how customer experience expectations have shifted since the start of the pandemic, the F&B units will be self-service and mobile ordering enabled.

Jonathan Robinson, SSP CEO Asia-Pacific, said: “Our partnership with Huaguoshan Airport enables us to demonstrate our expertise and commitment to adapting to meet changing customer expectations. Over the past two years, we have seen a marked shift in the way customers wish to interact with F&B outlets. With this latest contract win, we endeavor to elevate the experience that customers have come to expect from us through the implementation of digital ordering services. Passengers that visit Huaguoshan Airport can now order from their favorite local and international brands in the way that suits them.”

Rong Li Ji, A’Xiang Rice Noodle, Burger King and the first of two Ritazza units are now welcoming customers. A second Ritazza unit in the international terminal will open later in the year.

Still in the first phase of construction, the airport will be the third largest in Jiangshu when it’s completed.