UK. Indian street food café Chaiiwala has launched a new outlet in the departures area at Birmingham Airport, its second airport opening in four months.
The store is operated by EG On The Move, which currently runs several Chaiiwala locations in the UK, including two drive-throughs in Bolton and Blackburn.
The menu includes beverages such as Karak Chaii and Karak Coffee, as well as Chaiiwala’s signature dishes English-Ish Breakfast, Masala Chips and Samosas.
Chaiiwala Chief Executive Officer Muhummed Ibrahim said: “We are super excited to bring our varied food offering and enhanced choice to travellers at Birmingham Airport.
“Chaiiwala is a different food concept to what is currently available at airports and travel hubs in the UK, and we are really looking forward to welcoming passengers to the store.
“Our goal is to enhance the experience of travelling customers by providing exceptional dining options. The addition of Chaiiwala to Birmingham Airport is a key part of that vision.”
The Chaiiwala concession has been developed as a standalone kiosk with an investment of £500,000. The 1,100sq ft store is the company’s 115th global store and it has created 20 jobs.
Customers can use the low-level seating and serving areas across the departures lounge at Birmingham Airport while having clear visibility of flight information boards and boarding gates.
EG On The Move Director of Retail & Foodservice Junaid Manjra commented: “Opening Chaiiwala at Birmingham Airport is a fantastic step forward in our strategy to give customers on-the-move access to popular, high-quality foodservice brands.
“Building on our successful roadside Chaiiwala concession network, this launch extends our strategic vision.
“It aims to offer transient roadside customers and travellers at hubs like airports and train stations fresh, exciting foodservice choices. The concept combines convenience with a quality food and drink experience.”
The new store features the full Chaiiwala menu, along with additional treats, snacks and all-day options. It operates between 3am and 10pm, catering to early-morning flyers and late-night travellers alike.
Birmingham Airport Commercial Director Richard Gill said: “It is great to see the new Chaiiwala and EG On The Move catering outlet open at Birmingham Airport.
“After months of planning and building, customers travelling out will be treated to Chaiiwala’s fresh concept. It brings the flavours of Indian street food directly to the departure lounge in a convenient, accessible way.
“Their menu, which has vegetarian options and is halal-certified, offers convenience for customers on the go.”
Chaiiwala is accelerating its domestic and international expansion to 500 stores over the next ten years with a focus on key growth markets, including the USA, Canada and the Middle East.
Chaiiwala currently has 115 stores globally, 97 of which are in the UK. Its international stores include three in the UAE and 15 in Canada. ✈
