Qatar signs concession deal for F&B at new airport

In a joint venture with Qatar Duty Free – a subsidiary of Qatar Airways – SSP will operate 11 F&B outlets at the new gateway, which is scheduled to open on Monday

The project will be SSP’s first business venture in Qatar.

The new outlets, which will begin trading towards the end of 2013, will include a number of internationally renowned brands alongside a selection of SSP’s own concepts, in a mix that has been designed to “appeal to the airport’s cosmopolitan visitors”, of which a large proportion are transit passengers.

Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar Airways, said: “We are delighted to enter into this significant strategic partnership with SSP to operate food and beverage outlets at Hamad International Airport, the State of Qatar’s brand new airport in Doha.

“SSP has shared our vision for the airport and has really delivered an outstanding mix of brands that will fit with our passenger mix.

“The outlets will cater to a diverse customer base, young and old, visiting or flying through this great new iconic airport which is set to become fully operational by the end of the year when Qatar Airways moves its entire operations to the new facility.”

The deal was signed by SSP CEO Andrew Lynch and Keith Hunter, Qatar Duty Free SVP in Doha earlier last month.

Lynch added: “Hamad International Airport will serve one of the world’s fastest developing economies, offering considerable potential for building our business in the Middle East.

“Passenger traffic at Doha has been expanding at an impressive rate in recent years, and this new facility will allow this growth to continue in the future.

“The new venture will continue to strengthen SSP’s presence in the Middle East and Asia. When Hamad International Airport welcomes its first passengers, it will be one of the most high profile openings of the decade, and we’re delighted to be taking this exciting step into the Qatari market.”