Berlin Hauptbahnhof

A jewel in Europe’s crown

The largest station in mainland Europe, when it opened in 2006 the elegant Berlin Hauptbahnhof set new standards of excellence in international rail travel.

Among the new facilities at this cutting-edge terminal, were a selection of ten cafés and restaurants created by SSP. Trading at these outlets was brisk from day one – around 300,000 visitors were expected at the station, however the excitement generated by the opening of the station was so great that over three times that number turned up.

SSP’s 200 strong team coped well under the pressure of this demand. This was because even though most of them were new employees, they had been meticulously selected and trained. A special 1,000 square metre food-court was built two months before the opening to serve as a base for recruitment and training. Candidates were also given the opportunity to work in other busy locations to see how they rose to the challenge of a fast-paced environment. Only a third of those who applied for a position passed this taxing selection process. In total, 4,700 hours of training were completed in time for the opening.

SSP’s units at Berlin include a food court, incorporating Upper Crust, Kamps, Flamen Grill, Millie’s Cookies, Gosch Sylt, Caffè Ritazza, Burger King and Pizza Hut. There is also a Point convenience store, and a bakery concept called Heberer.