Alpha Airports, the in-flight and airport retailer, has signed a licensing deal with Starbucks to open and run the coffee-bar giant’s stores at UK airports.

Alpha Retail, a division of Alpha Airports, will recruit staff for the new stores and roll them out at various UK airports during the next few years, strengthening Starbucks position in the travel concessions sector.

Phil Broad, managing director, Starbucks UK, said: “When selecting our licensees we look for three essential qualities – a strong record of accomplishment in retail, outstanding experience in brand management and expertise in catering.”

The first store to open as part of the agreement will be at Jersey Airport in October of this year.

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By Chris Druce

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