Brisbane Airport chases high-end retailers in revamp

Artist's impression of revamped International Terminal at Brisbane Airport. | Newsreel
More than 32 retail opportunities are up for grabs at an upgraded International Terminal at Brisbane Airport. | Photo: Supplied by Brisbane Airport Corporation.

A new high-end bar is one of more than 32 retail opportunities planned for a revamped International Terminal at Brisbane Airport.

Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) this week released a Request for Proposal (RFP) for top-tier food and beverage and retail operators.

BAC Executive General Manager Commercial Martin Ryan said proposals were now being accepted for the food & beverage, travel essentials and foreign exchange categories, with specialty to follow soon.

“Our aim is to bring the finest global offerings to Brisbane while showcasing the best of Queensland to the world,” Mr Ryan said.

“Our International Terminal provides the first welcome and final taste of Queensland, and we’re ready to welcome operators into the terminal that will push the boundaries in terms of what they offer in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics and Paralympic Games.”

Mr Ryan said through the International Terminal redevelopment about 12 food and beverage, 14 specialty and four travel essentials sites would be available, as well as an exclusive foreign exchange partnership across both the International and Domestic terminals.

“The successful operators will support us in creating a memorable and ‘uniquely Brisbane’ experience for travellers to enjoy as they depart for their holidays or return home.”

He said food and beverage opportunities included a new contemporary high-end bar concept, located on the Level 3 departures’ glass windows, which offered unrivalled views of the runway.

Level 3 also offered an additional lobby bar opportunity, quick-service restaurants, grab & go kiosk and an all-day café.

“The jewel in the crown is the 900sqm + food and beverage precinct, a first of its kind in an Australian airport, providing an immersive experience that will be a platform for food theatre.

“The successful operator will cover all aspects of food retailing, including bar service, exceptional coffee, multiple surprise and delight culinary experiences and rotating seasonal cuisines.”

Mr Ryan said two more quick service restaurants, an Espresso bar and a café/bar would be available on Level 4, along with a new arrivals’ café and Espresso kiosk on Level 2.

“As part of this retail evolution, seven new specialty retail sites will be available on the Level 3 departures ‘High Street’, along with one on Level 4.

“Brisbane Airport is seeking operators that can align with the ‘Australian, Holiday Enablers, Aspirational Luxury and Considered Gifts’ retail pillars to take the new offering to the next level.”

Mr Ryan said Brisbane Airport’s International Terminal already served over 5.3 million passengers each year through a network of 31 international ports, with international passenger volumes forecast to double over the next 10 years.

For commercial inquiries email Commercial Manager Leasing & Developments Jay Boughton.