SSP Group will open its first BrewDog bar-restaurant and a M&S Food in Northern Ireland later this year in the new Belfast Grand Central Station. The company will also manage two Starbucks stores, one in the main concourse and one post the rail barrier, near platform one – at the city centre terminus station.
The new outlets will significantly add to SSP’s portfolio in Northern Ireland’s travel hubs when they open in the coming weeks. The travel food experts currently operate seven outlets at Belfast International Airport; three concept bars, two Café Ritazzas, Starbucks and Burger King.
“These new outlets really put SSP on the map in Northern Ireland, showcasing the best that we offer alongside some of our biggest partners,” said Kari Daniels, CEO SSP UK & Ireland. “We’re looking forward to bringing our award-winning brands to the new Belfast Grand Central Station and being the best part of the journey for customers living in and visiting the city.”
Louise Doyle, Translink Station Manager at Grand Central Station said, “This impressive new integrated facility will offer an enhanced user experience for up to 20 million bus, coach and train users. But, beyond transportation, the station will also be a new destination in the heart of the city where people meet, so we are looking forward to working with SSP to deliver this attractive retail offering to create a unique blend of convenience and leisure all under one roof.
New BrewDog bar
SSP and BrewDog began their partnership in 2023. The Belfast venue aligns to its plans to open venues at some of the world’s busiest and most important travel locations. Located on the station’s mezzanine level, it’s ideally located for both travellers and will serve the brand’s full craft beer range, accompanied by an all day food menu which includes their signature burgers, wings, and a breakfast menu.
Public transport debut for M&S
The M&S Food outlet will feature a brand new in-store bakery serving a selection of pastries, alongside a wide range of salads and locally sourced sandwiches from Newry-based supplier, Around Noon. For those customers grabbing dinner on the way home, there will be plenty to choose from, including Collection Wood Fired pizzas and ready-meals – all alongside the usual M&S sweet treats.
Ryan Lemon, Regional Manager for Northern Ireland at M&S, said: “We’re thrilled to be opening a brand-new M&S Food shop at Belfast Grand Central Station, our 23rd store in Northern Ireland. Our convenient location and wide range of delicious food and drinks make us the perfect spot for commuters, whether grabbing a quick bite on the go, planning a train picnic or stopping by for a delicious ‘dinner for tonight’ meal, our new station store will be the perfect pitstop for passengers en route to their final destination.”
Sip on a Starbucks
Starbucks will be SSP’s largest franchise partner by the number of outlets when its two stores open at Belfast Grand Central Station. One in the concourse area and the other a kiosk on the rail platform. This autumn, Starbucks’ limited-edition menu includes the iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte, with brand-new additions to the UK, including the US best-seller Pumpkin Cream Iced Chai Tea Latte, and Pumpkin Cream Iced Oat Shaken Espresso.