Manchester Airport has unveiled plans for 27 new restaurants and retail units in its brand-new Terminal 2, opening in 2025 as part of the airport’s £1.3 billion transformation programme.
The extended departure lounge will feature a food market serving a variety of world cuisines and quick eats, for those who prefer a more casual dining experience, alongside a boutique high street-style shopping area complete with a Champagne Bar and premium brands, artisan cafes and a brasserie.
The shopping zone, to be known as The Avenue, will have a vibrant and airy feel. Each store front will open onto airfield views, with plenty of passenger seating for added comfort.
“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,” said Richard Jackson, Retail Director, Manchester Airport. “We already have a great range of food and drink options in Terminal 2, 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.”
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.
The expanded retail and restaurant offering forms part of the transformation programme’s second phase, which will see the original Terminal 2 building remodelled and upgraded, in sync with the recently-opened terminal extension. Work is expected to be completed by 2025.
