The AFL is pleased to announce a partnership with Emirates Leisure Retail that will combine Australians' love for travel and footy with the all new AFL Kitchen & Bar.
Located in the revamped Terminal 3 of Melbourne Airport, home of Virgin Australia, the AFL Kitchen & Bar is more than just a family restaurant. It unites fans through their love for the game, inviting families to relax and enjoy some food and refreshments in a dynamic environment while, watching the footy on the big screens or taking in the stunning view of the airfield.
Nothing unites Australians quite like the AFL and fans travelling will now be able to immerse themselves in the AFL atmosphere, catching up on all the latest AFL news and games while sitting back and relaxing in the comfort of the Melbourne Airport.
AFL General Manager Commercial Kylie Rogers said the opening of the AFL Kitchen & Bar demonstrates the AFL and Emirates Leisure Retail's unwavering commitment in bringing travellers unique, world-class food and beverage concepts.
"Footy has the unique ability to unite fans across the country with the AFL Kitchen & Bar uniting groups or individual travelers in their passion of the game.
"Flying into Melbourne, or interstate for a match the AFL Kitchen & Bar will give you a footy fix prior to departure or as soon as you land.
"The AFL is delighted to be able to bring fans another world class partnership with Emirates Leisure Retail." Ms Rogers said.
Managing Director of Emirates Leisure Retail AUS/NZ Justin Scotti said: "There is nothing Melbournians are more passionate about than AFL! We believe this concept will be a world first of its kind in any airport around the world. This will be so much more than a Bar!"
Melbourne Airport Chief of Retail, Andrew Gardiner said: "The AFL is synonymous with Melbourne, so it made perfect sense to bring the AFL Kitchen & bar to the Melbourne Airport in partnership with Emirates Leisure Retail.
"The venue will be a great addition to the airport's hospitality offering, giving footy fans the ability to watch their team play pre-flight."
Mr Gardiner said the Kitchen and Bar is coming at the right time as Melbourne Airport's passenger numbers are growing at a rapid rate. Last financial year the airport welcomed 36.7 million travellers and that number is expected to rise to almost 70 million passengers per year by 2038.
Construction of the space has begun and is expected to open in November this year.
About Emirates Leisure Retail (ELR),
Emirates Leisure Retail (ELR), a subsidiary of the high-profile Emirates Group, owners and operators of over 300 restaurants, cafes and bars across Asia, The Middle East, Australia and New Zealand, including 85 outlets across 15 domestic and international airports.
