Manchester Airport Terminal Two to go under £1.3bn transformation programme to become ‘world class’

The new facilities will be part of the brand-new Terminal Two, which is currently undergoing a major renovation.

The airport hopes to create a vibrant and welcoming space for passengers, with a range of food and shopping options available.

An extended departure lounge will feature a food market serving a variety of world cuisines and quick eats, catering to passengers who prefer a more casual dining experience.

They will also create a boutique high street-style shopping area called The Avenue, which will include a Champagne Bar and premium brands, artisan cafes, and a brasserie.

The new shopping zone will have an airy and spacious feel, with each storefront opening onto airfield views and plenty of passenger seating for added comfort.

The airport is currently searching for retailers selling toys, fashion, accessories, and travel essentials to take up units in this area.

They are also seeking out partners who will showcase the best of the North in their units, through the design of their stores and the range of products on offer.

According to Richard Jackson, Retail Director at Manchester Airport, “We are well aware that our guests’ holidays start at the airport, and we want them to enjoy their time here – whether that means sipping craft beer brewed at the airport in a bar overlooking the airfield or eating an artisan pizza.”

He added, “We’re looking to build on our existing range of food and drink options in Terminal Two, with all-new offerings, including a Champagne Bar and a market hall-style food court.”

The airport is now beginning the tendering process for over two dozen new units this month, with a view to announcing the successful applicants by next April.

The expanded retail and restaurant offering forms part of the transformation program’s second phase, which will see the original Terminal Two building remodelled and upgraded in sync with the recently-opened terminal extension.

The work is expected to be completed by 2025.

More than 80% of the airport’s passengers are expected to travel through Terminal Two once the second phase of the transformation program is complete, with an outbound catchment area stretching from Scotland to North Wales and the Midlands, and millions of international visitors pouring in.

A blend of regional and national brands are expected to operate the new units, in keeping with the areas of the terminal that are already open to passengers.

The first phase of the project saw a number of Mancunian favourites taking up residence in Terminal Two, from burger and shake chain Archie’s, Italian restaurant San Carlo and coffee brand Pot Kettle Black, to Manchester brewers Joseph Holt and Seven Bro7hers.

They were joined by household names like Costa Coffee, WH Smith, Pret a Manger, and Wagamama.

Mark Flanagan, the owner of Pot Kettle Black, said, “Opening an outlet in Manchester Airport together with our partners HMSHost UK has been an incredible experience.”

He added, “We started in Manchester nine years ago in just small premises in Barton Arcade. Now through the branch in the airport, we’re reaching customers who come from all over the world, and we’re even seeing international customers visiting our city centre branches because they’ve been to the one in the airport. Back in 2014, we never thought we’d be an international brand, but the airport branch is helping us do that.”

The airport hopes that the new facilities will create a welcoming and comfortable experience for passengers, as they embark on their journeys.

By offering a range of food and shopping options, the airport aims to provide passengers with an enjoyable experience that they will remember fondly.

The airport’s investment in this transformation program is expected to pay off in the long run, as it helps to establish Manchester Airport as a leading destination for travellers from around the world.