SSP signs deal to operate new F&B outlets at Vilnius airport

SSP, a leading operator of food and beverage outlets worldwide, has been awarded a contract to operate its first units in Lithuania, securing a seven-year agreement in Vilnius. SSP will introduce six new units at the Baltic travel hub, with the first expected to begin trading in 2025. SSP already operates a successful business in Estonia, and this new deal will enable the company to leverage its resources there, as well as the scale of its well-established operations in the Nordics.

The food and beverage specialists will introduce a mix of SSP-owned favourites along with internationally recognised franchise Burger King® and a bespoke concept tailor-made for the Lithuanian market called Vilnius Bar & Bistro – Le Grand Comptoir. The menus have been designed to appeal to a broad spectrum of local travellers, who represent 80% of passengers at the airport, as well as international passengers. The variety of food styles means there are plenty of options for those looking to grab and go as well as those with time to enjoy a more leisurely meal.

Located landside, Vilnius Bar & Bistro – Le Grand Comptoir will provide those passing through the airport with an authentic taste of Lithuania along with international favourites. Inspired by 1930’s art-deco style, this distinctive outlet is also influenced by Vilnius and Lithuania. Factory Bar and Kitchen will provide the perfect place for both solo dining and family meals, with plenty of seating space across two floors. In response to the popularity of craft breweries across the country, the menu will offer ten beverages on draft, while a further 20 will be available in bottles. SSP will also open a Burger King® and three SSP-owned coffee and bakery favourites - a new style Ritazza, an Upper Crust, and a Soul + Grain. Vilnius will be the first location in the SSP estate to feature the new concepts for all of these brands in a single location.

SSP Nordics CEO Bente Brevik said; “We’re delighted to be a part of the exciting project at Vilnius Airport to elevate the passenger experience. It’s a testament to the hard work and know-how of our teams that Lithuanian Airports has decided to partner with us for these new F&B outlets.”

Lithuanian Airports’ Chief Commercial Officer Gintarė Norvilaitė-Tautevičė said; “Having seen first-hand the quality of SSP’s operations at many of the world’s leading airports, we’re certain that the food and beverage offering coming to Vilnius will enhance the experience of passengers traveling to and from the city. As we enter an exciting phase of redevelopment at Vilnius Airport, SSP’s ability to provide a brand mix and concepts that capture the charm and vibrancy of Lithuania with menus that appeal to our broad passenger base stands us in good stead as we move to this next chapter in our history.

"The coming years will be crucial for the development of infrastructure at Vilnius Airport, with a series of major upgrades set to transform the travel experience. In 2025, the airport will open its new departures terminal, marking a significant leap in quality by doubling passenger capacity and offering a modern, enhanced travel experience with state-of-the-art technology. 

“Representatives of Lithuanian Airports are committed to elevating the standard of travel, making the new terminal a comfortable gateway for all passengers. Starting in mid-2025, the old terminals will undergo a transformation to create more space for commercial services and improve passenger convenience. This conversion is set to be completed by the end of 2026, while work on a new arrivals terminal, expected to open by late 2028, will continue in parallel.”

Vilnius Airport, located 6km from the city centre, serves the city’s 600,000 strong population as well as passengers from across Lithuania and the rest of the Baltics. Flights operate from Vilnius 24/7, with the most popular international destinations being Germany, Italy and the UK, and just under half (45%) of its passengers are travelling for leisure.