SSP to introduce self-service elements in new Manchester Airport pub

The 330-cover pub and restaurant will open in the airport on 21 March and has been designed to mix elements which reflect the local area alongside design and service features for modern, travelling pub goers.

Many items on the menu will have a guaranteed arrival time of 13 minutes while self-service beer stations and 'sound pods', where guests can choose their own music, will also feature.

Contemporary​

"The Grain Loft will give Manchester’s passengers a comfortable place to enjoy a drink or a meal, with all the familiarity and quality of their local contemporary pub," said Mark Rainbow, SSP UK chief operating officer.

"We’re certain this will become the number one place to relax at the airport and ensure our customers’ holiday gets off to a flying start at Manchester Airport."

The opening marks another innovation in airside F&B offerings which have changed dramatically in the UK in the last 18 months to two years.​ The launch also shows the greater influence high-tech hospitality features​ are now having on a greater number of businesses. 

"As we are always looking at new ways of making the customer experience as relaxing as possible, (particularly at airports where our customers need to feel in control of their time), we will certainly look to rolling it out to our other bars, when we know that the self-service beer system is proving a hit with our customers at Manchester," said an SSP spokesperson.

Beer Can Chicken​

The Manchester area has provided the inspiration for much of the menu at The Grain Store with local ales featuring at the bar and within a number of the dishes.

Krakauer sausage will be marinated in Weetwood’s Cheshire Cat ale, meanwhile Beer Can Chicken, a whole marinated chicken slow roasted over a can of Thornbridge’s Jaipur IPA, will be a menu highlight.

Recommended beers will be listed alongside each menu choice.

"The Grain Loft is a great new addition to our busiest terminal," said Beth Brewster, retail director for MAG, owners of Manchester Airport. "The sound pods, beer stations and the use of local produce are truly unique and will give our passengers, whether travelling with the family or on business, something to enjoy.  

"SSP have always understood and worked alongside us in giving passengers something different, modern and innovative and I’m sure it will be a success.  I can’t wait to try the Beer Can Chicken," she added.