5 Minutes with ... Richard Jackson
With over 5 million passengers passing through its gates over the summer, we highlight some other major milestones achieved this year by the UK’s global gateway in the North
A new section of Manchester Airport’s redeveloped Terminal 2 departure lounge opened in July to much fanfare. What reaction have you received from passengers over the summer?
With the opening of a new part of the terminal providing seven new shops and eateries, we’ve seen overwhelmingly positive comments from our passengers. Our new brands provide a wider range of options for travellers to explore and enjoy before their flight. From treating a loved one (or yourself) to a gift, to exploring new options to dine-in, we’ve really enhanced the passenger experience! We’ve chosen brands we knew that our passengers would be excited about, and that’s been clear to see in the terminal. We also have a large seating area with around 500 additional seats which has proven to be a popular place for passengers to relax before their flight.
The volume of new and upcoming store openings reflects Manchester Airport’s commitment to investing across its terminals. How important is it to you to attract luxury brands as part of this growth?
As we look toward the future and the continued expansion of our airport, we're proud to now connect travellers to over 200 destinations worldwide. With passenger numbers soaring to record highs, our focus remains on delivering a world-class experience that reflects the diverse interests and expectations of every traveller. In the second phase of opening, we will open a Boutique Mall offering aspirational brands, and an airport first with a standalone Chanel store. A second World Duty Free will also bring even more of our customers’ favourite designer brands. From the moment you arrive, your holiday should feel like it’s already begun and that’s exactly what we strive for!
Pasta Evangelists opened its first branch outside of London in Terminal 2 last autumn. What is your strategy in targeting exciting brands from outside the North and bringing them to Manchester?
The arrival of Pasta Evangelists marked a first for any UK airport and it set the tone for what’s to come. As more brands look to expand their footprint in the North, we’re proud to be the launchpad for their growth. These household names have not only brought their much-loved high street favourites to our terminals, but have also thrived in response to the incredible demand from our passengers. Many of these brands are already planning exciting new developments, evolving their offerings to keep pace with the tastes and expectations of our growing passenger portfolio. We look forward to announcing more UK firsts and airport exclusives.
Manchester Airport works with exciting new and Mancunian brands, such as Salford brewery Seven Bro7hers, coffee chain Pot Kettle Black and fast-food favourite Archie’s. How important is it to you to champion local brands and can we see more of this moving forward?
We’re proud to connect the North and we believe our terminal should be a true reflection of Manchester at its best. From showcasing beloved local brands to partnering with Manchester-based suppliers and services, every aspect of our airport is rooted in showcasing our city. Manchester is one of the UK’s fastest-growing cities and we’re honoured to celebrate our Northern heritage and to champion the best of Manchester.
Food markets have played an integral role in Manchester’s thriving food and beverage scene. What can travellers expect from the upcoming opening of The Great Northern Market in Terminal 2?
The Great Northern Market is a true point of pride for us and for me personally! It will be a vibrant celebration of Manchester’s renowned street food scene, and one we’re confident will resonate with our passengers. Featuring six international street food kitchens alongside a dedicated Gooey desserts unit, our market hall will bring together the city’s bold flavours and culinary creativity under one roof. Perfect for groups, it allows travellers to share a table while enjoying a variety of menus tailored to different tastes. We’re sure it will prove popular with passengers and be the ideal pre-flight experience for food lovers of all kinds.
As Manchester Airport enters its final stages of its £1.3bn Terminal 2 transformation, what other openings and changes can passengers expect to see?
Alongside the exciting new shops and eateries arriving across our terminals, passengers can look forward to a completely transformed airport experience, from check-in to arrivals. Alongside the Boutique Mall and market hall, we look forward to welcoming a Fever-Tree Cocktail and Champagne Bar, as well as increased options in our new arrivals area. Our transformation continues throughout the terminal, with upgraded facilities and thoughtful design touches, including an homage to our iconic Venetian chandeliers set to take pride of place in the departure lounge.
Moving forward, Terminal 1 is set to close, and the delivery of the Terminal 2 project is soon to be complete. Are you able to share any plans for what the future holds for Terminal 3?
We’re not ones to stand still and our transformation doesn’t stop at Terminal 2. Work is already underway to upgrade Terminal 3, ensuring every traveller enjoys a modern, elevated airport experience, no matter which terminal they’re flying from. One of the most exciting additions is a brand-new 500-seat sports bar, complete with two bars and some of the best airfield views anywhere on site. We’re confident it will prove to be a firm favourite with passengers. And while we’re keeping a few surprises under wraps for now, there’s plenty more in store for Terminal 3 and we can’t wait to share what’s coming next!
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