In separate statements, the group announced that chief executive Kate Swann will step down on 31 March 2019 after more than fives years at the company. She will be succeeded by Simon Smith - current chief executive UK and Ireland.
Chairman Vagn Sorensen commented: “Succession planning is deeply embedded into the group and following a thorough process, we are delighted with Simon's appointment”.
Meanwhile the company prepares to enter the South American travel market for the first time after securing £70 million worth of contracts with
Duty Free Americas (DFA).
This will see it open a number of international brands at São Paulo (GRU) and Rio de Janeiro airports over nine years, including: Ritazza; Upper Crust; Jamie’s Deli; Mi Casa Burritos; O’Learys; and Camden food co.
Swann said: “(SSP is) delighted to make its first move into the exciting South American market. Our new operations at two of Brazil’s most prestigious airports will provide us with a strong platform to grow our business in this rapidly developing region”.
DFA president Leon Falic commented: “These new joint venture restaurants are an important step in consolidating (DFA’s) presence in Brazil….We look forward to continue expanding our food and beverage business with SSP”.
Gustavo Figueiredo, GRU Airport chief executive added: “SSP, with its extensive line of food and beverage operations, meets GRU Airport's objective of delivering the best and most diversified services to passengers”.
In another statement, SSP revealed that it is also opening the UK’s first airside M&S Food to Go at Birmingham Airport, in ‘early’ 2019.
As with the high street giants other food-to-go stores, it will sell a selection of all-day food and drink products from wraps, baguettes and salads to sushi, confectionery and alcohol. Hot food will also be available (bacon rolls, hot sandwiches and soups) as well barista-made hot drinks.
Swann commented: “We’re extremely excited to be opening the first ever airside M&S. Bringing together M&S’s food innovation and SSP’s operational expertise, the new store has been designed for airport customers. We’ve worked closely with the development team at M&S to create an offering that will appeal to people flying through Birmingham Airport looking for quick, delicious meals and snacks to eat in or to take with them on their flights. We hope this will be the first of many more to come”.
M&S retail, operations and property director Sacha Berendji, added: “M&S is excited to be opening in Birmingham Airport early next year.
“This is a great opportunity to continue to grow in travel locations, where we know customers love the convenience of our offer. From sushi to salads, our food to go will have a tailored range of quality products for customers to enjoy before they board their flight”.