JAMAICA. MBJ Airports Limited (MBJ) has revealed via its website the winners of what it called its most substantial Retail Development – Request for Proposals (RFP) process since 2003, covering 29 commercial units at Sangster International Airport (SIA).
As reported, the RFP was published in December 2019 prior to disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The selection process for retail and duty free partners to operate 29 units in SIA’s redesigned retail programme drew 116 proposals.
These were assessed using “international benchmarks for design and product mix, anchored by a core set of criteria requiring future operators to create store aesthetics infused with a strong Jamaican Sense of Place while creating meaningful experiences, not just an offer of products or brands,” commented Manager, Commercial Business Development and Marketing Sharon Hislop- Holt.
All 29 units have been allocated with retail licences ranging from two to six years currently being finalised with successful proponents. MBJ said that it welcomed the following operators (see table) which were successful in the RFP and which will be partnering with the airport company to pursue the latter’s vision of creating an ‘Irie Airport Experience’ for passengers.
Dufry will operate the main duty free concession offering liquor, tobacco, fragrances and cosmetics and other core items. Dufry General Manager Region 4 Juan-Antonio Nieto said: “Dufry Group is very excited to continue our strategic partnership with MBJ Airports at the Sangster International Airport.
“Dufry is going to develop a new walk through concept with the best group practices regarding Customer Service and Technology, and presenting the most recognised worldwide brands. Additionally, we will expand our commercial offer with the introduction of our well-known concepts such as the Hudson convenience and Tech On The Go specialty shops. This confirms our commitment to MBJ as the leading airport in the Caribbean.”
[Click on the icon to watch this vibrant video take on the new programme courtesy of UK firm The Design Solution, which played a lead role in the the retail conceptualisation]
The phased expansion and redevelopment of SIA’s retail programme commenced in March 2020 with the US$12 million construction of 2,700sq m of newly built retail space, including a 12m high Rotunda double-height space, with a floor to ceiling curtain wall slated to be completed in March 2021. The works also include the renovation of over 4,000sq m of space to create 15 retail units.
The expansion provides an increase in passenger circulation and orientation areas while the increased terminal space will primarily accommodate the relocation of the primary food & beverage offer.
Express Catering, MBJ’s sole food & beverage operator post-security, is adding new concepts to its already robust portfolio of proprietary brands and internationally recognised franchises. New concepts include Bento, one of the largest sushi companies outside of Japan.
The brand’s on-site Bento chefs prepare a selection of sushi, bento boxes, ramen, poke bowls and more. These fresh menu items can be enjoyed by guests onsite, or pre-packaged selections can be purchased at any of Express Catering’s Viva Grab and Go locations throughout the terminal.
Another concept, Freshens, is a healthy ‘fresh casual’ concept, serving signature smoothies and frozen yogurts alongside menu items with a focus on fresh ingredients
The most exciting addition, MBJ noted, is Bob Marley’s, a “one-of-a-kind” Jamaican restaurant.
“Bob Marley’s opening in the Sangster International Airport will be a destination in itself,” said Express Catering Chairman and CEO Ian Dear. “We have created an experience that travellers will seek out and include in their itinerary.”
The new brand draws inspiration from Jamaica’s vibrant culture, food, music and spirit of generosity, MBJ said.
“We are honoured the Marley family has trusted us to bring this new concept to market. We are committed to showcasing the best of Jamaica and honouring Bob’s legacy of bringing people together,” Dear added.
Bob Marley’s will feature an authentic pimento wood-grill, Rita’s fresh juices, sharing plates, Marley-inspired photo ops and more.
Commenting on the RFP results, the airport company said: “The team at MBJ remains undaunted by the responsibility of leading Sangster International Airport’s role in Jamaica’s economic recovery and as such we are excited about the prospects of this project and the impact on local enterprise and employment.
“Over the next 6-8 months, the Commercial and Project teams’ primary focus will involve providing support to existing concessions to ensure the timelines for construction are met and all the stores will be operational when traffic increases to maximise sales.”
MBJ Airports CEO Shane Munroe said: “This is indeed an exciting time for us, as we seek new opportunities that will allow us to be in a better position while navigating and effectively responding to the prevailing conditions created by the current pandemic. MBJ remains committed to our passengers and all stakeholders as we continue to earn our title as the Caribbean’s leading airport.”
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