SSP, a leading operator of food and beverage brands in travel locations worldwide, is set to open its first Ed’s Easy Diner at London’s Liverpool Street Station. The new restaurant is scheduled to open this month.
Launching over a quarter of a century ago Ed’s Easy Diner welcomed its first customers in London’s Soho, bringing a flavour of 1950’s America to the capital. With its shiny chrome fittings, red and white signature colour scheme and neon signage Ed’s quickly became a must-visit on the itinerary of locals and tourists alike. To the classic Diner experience – a quick bite, reliable food, sassy service and customers always remembered – Ed’s added fun and nostalgia.
“We are pleased to welcome Ed’s Easy Diner to Liverpool Street as part of another major Network Rail retail development,” said Hamish Kiernan, Commercial Director at Network Rail. “Ed’s is one of the fastest growing Casual Dining formats in the UK and their franchise partnership with SSP is a perfect combination to drive operating success in the more complex station environment. We believe Ed’s will be a welcome addition to our Liverpool Street portfolio, providing locals and station users a unique US-style diner experience.”
Simon Smith, CEO of SSP UK was similarly upbeat about the prospects for the new Diner. “Ed’s is a much-loved brand that has a truly unique personality and a stand-out style that captures the imagination. It will be the perfect complement to the wide choice of bars restaurants, cafes and shops that visitors to Liverpool Street will be able to enjoy.”
CEO of Ed’s Easy Diner, Andrew Guy comments: “We are delighted to be embarking on the expansion of Ed’s and our first station opening, working with experienced partners SSP. Dwell time at train stations is certainly increasing and with a daily footfall of 180,000 people, we’re confident the Liverpool Street Diner will be a success. Together with SSP, we’ll aim to open 10 more Diners by the summer of 2020 in UK stations, airports and visitor attractions.”
In addition to Ed’s Easy Diner, SSP will also open a new Mi Casa Burritos, and, as previously announced, a Leon restaurant. The company currently operates 12 units in Liverpool Street and the brands it operates include M&S Simply Food, Delice de France, The Pasty Shop, Camden food co., The Merchant, Whistlestop, and Starbucks. The company opened its first unit at the station in 2000.