Gare de Lyon

Fast-paced business at historic French station

Built for the World Exposition of 1900, Gare de Lyon is considered one of the finest examples of the architecture of its day, remaining a landmark in the French capital. The 83 million passengers who pass through its impressive gates every year are well served with bars and restaurants. The sole provider of food and beverage at the station, SSP operates 15 take away units, four bars, a brasserie and the dazzling gourmet restaurant, Le Train Bleu.

Since SSP began operating at the station in 1998, business has boomed, and the company’s turnover at the station has increased by 40% since 2000. Among the best performers are the range of take-away units and the introduction of nationally renowned brands such as Brioche Dorée in 2001, prompted an increase in sales of between 20 and 30% with the opening of each new unit. Sales remain buoyant – for example one of the Brioche Dorée outlets at the station turns over an impressive 3.7 million euros a year, making it the best performing unit operated by SSP or any other organisation across the Brioche Dorée brand.

Operating at such a busy location requires a high level of efficiency from SSP’s 550-strong team. SSP France has created five satellite kitchen units where produce can be stored and food is prepared. Products, which include around 17,000 sandwiches every day, are then distributed across the station to smaller sales kiosks. This system ensures that all items are freshly made, and good stock levels are maintained at each unit. Spreading production between five preparation areas also ensures optimum continuity of supply.