F&B outlet operator SSP is to open its first units in Lithuania, having signed a seven-year agreement in Vilnius  

SSP will introduce six new units at the Baltic travel hub, with the first expected to begin trading in 2025. SSP already operates in Estonia, and this new deal will enable the company to leverage its resources there, as well as the scale of its well-established operations in the Nordics.

The food and beverage specialist will introduce a mix of SSP-owned favourites along with internationally recognised franchise Burger King and a bespoke concept tailor-made for the Lithuanian market, called Vilnius Bar & Bistro – Le Grand Comptoir. The menus have been designed to appeal to a broad spectrum of local travellers, who represent 80% of passengers at the airport, as well as international passengers. The variety of food styles means there are plenty of options for those looking to grab and go as well as those with time to enjoy a more leisurely meal.

Located landside, Vilnius Bar & Bistro – Le Grand Comptoir will provide an authentic taste of Lithuania, as well as international favourites. Over two floors, Factory Bar will offer ten beverages on draft, while a further 20 will be available in bottles. SSP will also open a Burger King and three of its own coffee and bakery favourites – a new-style Ritazza, an Upper Crust, and a Soul + Grain. Vilnius will be the first location in the SSP estate to feature the new concepts for all of these brands in a single location.

Lithuanian Airports’ chief commercial officer Gintarė Norvilaitė-Tautevičė said; “As we enter an exciting phase of redevelopment at Vilnius Airport, SSP’s ability to provide a brand mix and concepts that capture the charm and vibrancy of Lithuania with menus that appeal to our broad passenger base stands us in good stead.

"The coming years will be crucial for the development of infrastructure at Vilnius Airport, with a series of major upgrades set to transform the travel experience. In 2025, the airport will open its new departures terminal, marking a significant leap in quality by doubling passenger capacity and offering a modern, enhanced travel experience with state-of-the-art technology.”

A rendering of how the new Soul + Grain will look
A rendering of how the new Soul + Grain will look SSP Group