2012-11-19 — /travelprnews.com/ — SSP has announced that it has won a tender to operate five new outlets at Bordeaux Saint-Jean station. The deal will run for 12 years, commencing in May 2013, and is valued at €60 million.
The new outlets will be developed by SSP as part of a major modernisation project by operators Gares et Connexions and SNCF, and will considerably enhance the station environment.
The history, heritage and gastronomy of the region will be reflected at the new brasserie, Le Grand Comptoir, which is already a favourite with rail and airport passengers both in France and abroad. Precisely designed to complement the architecture of the station, the new restaurant will feature four distinct areas – a traditional restaurant, a quick service section for those with little time before their journey, a bar, and a lounge where passengers can relax before catching their train. For those who want to catch up with their work or stay connected with friends, there is wire-free charging via Powerkiss, and iPads are available for customer use. A smartphone-based loyalty programme will use the latest technology to keep customers informed of special offers and other news.
Two Brioche Dorée bakeries will cater for customers looking for a high quality selection of foods at any time of the day. Market-leading pasta brand Mezzo di Pasta, will offer a range of Italian foods, and an Alto Café will serve great coffee alongside pastries and other snacks. Convenience offer eat’Shop will retail a selection of snacks, as well as travel essentials.
‘Our new development here at Bordeaux will offer excellent quality, and the freshest and most innovative products,’ said Gérard d’Onofrio – CEO of SSP France, Belgium and Holland. ‘We are very proud to be helping to re-develop this elegant and architecturally important facility.’
Bordeaux Saint-Jean station is the largest in the Aquitaine region. It serves over 11 million passengers a year, and it is currently preparing to welcome the South European Atlantique high-speed rail service (LGV SEA) which will be operational in 2017 and is expected to result in an increase in passenger numbers to 17 million. The new service will reduce the journey time to Paris to under two hours.
###