Brussels Airport launches market sounding for next-generation F&B programme

BELGIUM. Brussels Airport is preparing to redefine the passenger dining experience with the launch of its next-generation food & beverage programme.

Ahead of a formal tender process, the airport will conduct a market-sounding exercise, starting in February, to engage with qualified operators and explore innovative concepts and future opportunities.

The goal of the tender is to create a balanced mix of Belgian favourites and international brands, blending tradition with innovation

Brussels Airport Head of Commercial Development Stefanie Bouckaert said, “At Brussels Airport, we aim to bring the best of Belgium to the world, combining authenticity, experience and a warm welcome with operational excellence and friendly staff.

“This market sounding is an opportunity for partners to shape together a future-proof F&B offer that celebrates Belgian culinary heritage while meeting the evolving expectations of international travellers.”

The airport company said it welcomes interest from qualified, expert F&B players from all global regions.

Opportunity and timeline

The upcoming programme will be structured into two comparable concession packages, collectively embracing approximately 50 units across landside areas; Connector; and Pier A (Schengen destinations) & Pier B (non-Schengen destinations).

The goal is to deliver a balanced mix of Belgian favourites and international brands, blending tradition with innovation to create a culinary journey that resonates with every passenger segment.

The market sounding will run from February to May 2026, followed by a Request for Proposals (RFP) planned for 2027, with new contracts starting in 2029.

Bouckaert added, “Food & beverage is more than dining; it’s about bringing people together, building real connection and creating meaningful experiences that last.

“In everything we do, we aim to spark those connections and create spaces that reflect our Belgian soul, from artisanal concepts to sustainable practices, while ensuring operational efficiency and commercial performance. Together with our partners, we will shape an offer that is authentic, inclusive and ready for the future.”

Heavy investment

Brussels Airport plans significant investments in the airport infrastructure in the coming years under the Hub 3.0 project.

The first phase, which represents a €500 million investment, will transform the airport to meet the expected passenger growth in the coming years and to elevate travellers’ experience and comfort.

It will feature the construction of a new intermodal hub, an expansion of the departure and arrival hall, a new state-of-the-art hotel, a new drop-off zone, and a green boulevard with a park. These developments will create additional space for retail and F&B concepts, offering partners a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic and growing environment.

Call to action

Qualified operators are invited to submit an Expression of Interest to receive an information pack and join the market sounding, which will run from February to May 2026. For details, see the panel below.

About Brussels Airport

Located in the heart of Europe, Brussels Airport is a major international hub connecting travellers across the world. With more than 70,000 passengers passing through daily, the airport combines operational excellence with a strong sense of Belgian identity. It is the world’s largest chocolate retailer, with 1.5kg of pralines sold every minute.

In addition, it serves an astounding 1,082 litres of Belgian beer daily. The airport company describes itself as “proudly Belgian”, offering a true showcase of the country’s culinary and cultural heritage.   ‍

KEY DETAILS IN SUMMARY

Brussels Airport Company will soon start a market-sounding exercise for its next-generation Food & Beverage programme. The opportunity will be structured into two comparable concession packages, covering in total approximately 50 units across landside areas, Connector, and Piers A (Schengen destinations) & B (non-Schengen destinations).

Qualified operators are invited to submit an Expression of Interest before 23 February 2026 in order to receive an information pack. They will also be invited to a market sounding, which will run from February to May 2026 and will explore the optimal balance of concepts, contract durations and commercial terms, ahead of a Request for Proposals (RFP) planned for 2027, and the new contracts starting in 2029.

To register your interest, please contact: fbmarketsounding@brusselsairport.be

TENDER ALERT 

The Moodie Davitt Report is the industry’s most popular channel for launching commercial proposals and for publishing the results. If you wish to promote an Expression of Interest, Request for Proposals or full tender process for any sector of airport or other travel-related infrastructure revenues, simply email Martin Moodie at Martin@MoodieDavittReport.com.

We have a variety of options that will ensure you reach the widest, most high-quality concessionaire/retailer/operator base in the industry – globally and immediately.

The Moodie Davitt Report is the only international business media to cover all airport or other travel-related consumer services, revenue-generating and otherwise. Our reporting includes duty-free and other retail, food & beverage, property, lounges and other hospitality services, art and culture, hotels, car parking, medical facilities, advertising and other related revenue streams.

Please send relevant material, including images, to Martin Moodie at Martin@MoodieDavittReport.com for instant, quality global coverage.

Food & Beverage The Magazine eZine