COFFEE chain Starbucks is to open a store in the departures lounge of George Best Belfast City Airport next month, creating 25 jobs.
It will take the total number of Starbucks stores in Northern Ireland to 19.
The store will be opened by HMSHost International, the world’s leading provider of food and beverage for people on the move, active in over 100 airports worldwide.
Joanne Deighan, commercial manager at Belfast City Airport, said: “The Starbucks brand is one of the most recognisable in the world and we're thrilled to welcome them to a prime position within our departures lounge at the airport, which transports more than 2.7 million people every year.
“We were recently named the ‘most convenient airport in the UK and Ireland’ and we want to provide a relaxing area for passengers to enjoy before boarding their flight with a complete food, beverage and retail offering.
“We are constantly looking for new ways to further enhance the passenger experience and the feedback regarding Starbucks’ arrival has been fantastic so we are excited for the shop’s opening in October and to facilitate 25 additional jobs.”
Belfast City Airport already hosts a number of internationally recognised brands within the terminal, including Boots, World Duty Free and WHSmith.
Walter Seib, chief executive of HMSHost International, which will open, operate and manage the new Starbucks store, added: “We’re delighted to bring great coffee and world class service to all of our new customers where they can enjoy the true Starbucks experience, between their home and travel destinations.
“We hope that travellers flying out of Belfast City Airport will enjoy the experience of drinking fantastic coffee in a brand new environment while enjoying the view of Belfast Harbour, Cave Hill and beyond.”
