Food and beverage operator, SSP Group, has confirmed two transactions which will expand its presence in North America and the Middle East, in line with strategic objectives to pivot these higher growth markets.
Firstly, SSP has acquired Calgary-based ECG Ventures and in doing so has taken over leases on three units at Calgary Airport and an additional two at Edmonton Airport. SSP already operated existing concessions at both Canadian hubs. The five restaurant/ bars that are part of this contract include: The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck, Bistro on the Bow, Belgian Beer Cafe (two units) and The Canadian Brewhouse.
In addition to its expanded presence in North America, SSP is also expanding its presence in Saudi Arabia, having signed a contract with Jeddah Airport to operate three food and beverage packages, representing a total of 26 units, for an initial duration of between five and seven years.
SSP’s collaboration at Jeddah will see the Saudi launch of brands including Jamie Oliver Kitchen, Pizza Express and the London-based gelato specialists Snowflake and Falafel & Friends, as well as SSP’s own travel brands, including Jaipur (Indian street food) and Camden food co.
Commenting on the company’s North American and Middle East expansion, Patrick Coveney, Group CEO of SSP said: “Both the acquisition of ECG in Canada and the significant contract win at Jeddah are excellent examples of our business development strategy in action. We are clear that a combination of investing in organic growth and carrying out selective infill M&A will create sustainable long-term value and returns, and North America and the Middle East are important areas of focus for expansion. We very much look forward to welcoming the ECG team to SSP and to delighting passengers at Jeddah with our carefully selected mix of brands and concepts.”
