Mount Charles delivers £1m fit-out at Belfast International Airport as passenger experience investment accelerates

Mount Charles, Northern Ireland's largest independent catering and facilities management company, has completed a £1 million fit-out at Belfast International Airport, replacing a legacy food court layout with a single, 180-seat restaurant and bar under the new Northern Quarter Bar & Kitchen concept.

Business Eye reported that the fit-out includes a full redesign of the departures space, upgraded kitchen facilities and new seating configurations tailored to varying passenger needs, from express coffee stops to full dining service. A dedicated Bewley's coffee dock operates alongside the main restaurant.

The project forms part of Belfast International Airport's wider £100 million transformation programme and extends a partnership between Mount Charles and the airport spanning more than 20 years. The airport serves over 6.7 million passengers annually and is Northern Ireland's principal aviation gateway.

Stacey McAlister, operations director at Mount Charles, said the investment goes beyond the physical refurbishment, adding that the company had recruited and trained an expanded team to deliver a consistent, high-quality service that enhances the overall airport experience.

McAlister added: "Our partnership with Belfast International Airport has grown over two decades, and this next chapter reflects our shared ambition to raise standards and invest locally."

Dan Owens, chief executive officer at Belfast International Airport, described the Northern Quarter as an important part of our airport transformation programme, stating that it would deliver more choice for our passengers and provide a wide range of high-quality food and beverage options in a unique and welcoming space.

The opening created 40 new roles, doubling Mount Charles's on-site team to 80 employees. Founded in 1988 by Trevor Annon, Mount Charles currently employs 2,500 people and services over 400 clients across the UK and Ireland.

See the full details of the Northern Quarter fit-out and what it means for Belfast International Airport's transformation.