The award of the concessions to MMI and ELR was made after successfully bidding in a highly competitive process against local and global operators.

MMI and ELR already operate over 30 outlets across nine domestic and international airports in Australia and the UAE (including all three terminals at Dubai International).

“We continue to see attractive opportunities both in F&B and traditional travel retailing,” said Andrew Day, MMI & ELR Group CEO.

“We have a proven track record of running a wide variety of concepts in this environment and are delighted that we have been able to build on our strong relationship with Dubai Airports and significantly increase our presence at Dubai International through a portfolio of powerful global, as well as our own, brands.”

ELR will roll out five premium F&B brands in the new concourse. The new F&B brands include Giraffe, the family friendly restaurant group that is scheduled to open its first outlet outside the UK at Dubai International, and Costa Metropolitan - an extension and more urban format of the well-established coffee brand.

Some of the locations include Champagne Lounge by Moët & Chandon, the Heineken Lounge and Tennessee’s finest at Jack’s Bar & Grill.

Eugene Barry, senior vice president Commercial at Dubai Airports said: “We were deeply impressed by the overwhelming interest that the tender created and by the quality of submissions received from all prequalified bidders.

“Emirates Leisure Retail demonstrated a true understanding of what we set out to achieve at Concourse 3 and will introduce some great concepts with the aim of delighting our passengers. We are delighted to build on a great working relationship across the F&B category with ELR, and also in selective retail with Le Clos.”

MMI will bring the luxury beverages brand Le Clos to the new C3 facility and with twice the floor space of the original outlet, which is situated in the main departures concourse of Terminal 3, Concourse 2, at Dubai International.

Andrew J Day, Group CEO of MMI and ELR, said: “MMI and ELR understand the vital role that food and beverage and innovative compelling travel retail plays in enhancing the travellers’ experience and providing a relaxing environment and enjoyable experience during passenger dwell time.

“We are excited to be able to partner Dubai Airports in delivering unique concepts and world class brands and playing our part in making Dubai International the preferred choice for the discerning international traveller, as it continues its growth and enhances its international reputation.” – TradeArabia News Service