The new upgraded terminal facilities have been officially opened at George Best Belfast City Airport, unveiling new retailers and enhanced bars.

H&J Martin Fit Out carried out the £15 million upgrades, improving the departure lounge with additional seating and a new security area, alongside new and upgraded food and retail outlets.

Joanne Deighan, Commercial Manager at Belfast City Airport, said: "We strive to constantly exceed customers' expectations and put them at the heart of what we do by continually making improvements to our sales and services for the benefit of the end user.

"The upgrade of our departure lounge and retail offering will provide greater choice and significantly enhance the experience for our business and leisure passengers as they travel through the airport.

"We listened to passenger feedback throughout the refurbishment journey and are confident that Belfast City Airport is one that Northern Ireland can be truly proud of."

New bar restaurant the Artisan has been added to the airport's offerings, supporting local produce and Northern Irish suppliers and creating 15 new jobs.

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Charlotte Christiansen, Director of Business Development for HMS Host, who also operate the existing catering facilities at Belfast City Airport, added: "The Artisan is a combination of both the old and new with traditional design elements that hark back to Belfast's industrial and ship building heritage. Our food and beverage offerings are influenced by the North of Ireland's Artisan producers and local suppliers also reflecting a modern Belfast's vibrant restaurant culture.

"Belfast City Airport's leadership is both imaginative and energetic; re-inventing together with their business partners, developing new concession formats in retail, food and beverage and other services.

"We have exceeded our expectations. We have seen an uplift in like for like sales, improved capture and a world class food and beverage offer to exceed Belfast City Airport's passenger expectations.

"We are looking forward to a continuous partnership between HMSHost and Belfast City Airport for many years to come."

The World Duty Free and WH Smith departure stores have undergone a full renovation, expanding their retail space and improving the passenger experience.

Lifestyle and gift store, Born and Bred, has also been added to the departure lounge.

Speaking on behalf of the construction firm, William Sproule, H&J Martin Fit Out Director, said: "Our dedicated H&J Martin Fit Out team were thrilled to successfully complete the main elements of the refit works including the delivery of the Fit Out works at the World Duty Free.

"Our collaborative approach ensured the successful delivery of the project which will provide enhanced passenger experience at the airport for many years to come."

Belfast City Airport celebrated the launch of the new facilities with an exclusive reception for stakeholders.

(CM)