Wetherspoon has recently launched its inaugural pub in Europe, featuring a classic English breakfast and sandwiches. Situated at Spain’s Alicante airport, the establishment is poised to attract British travelers en route to popular destinations like Benidorm. This new venture hints at potential future expansions, as indicated by Wetherspoon’s CEO Tim Martin.
Although the décor deviates from the traditional Wetherspoon style, opting for Spanish tiles and cream paint, the menu offers a mix of familiar and unique dishes. Notable items include Japanese-style Katsu curry, alongside the quintessential British breakfast comprising fried eggs, bacon, sausage, and baked beans.
Named Castell de Santa Bàrbera, the pub operates daily from 6 am to 9 pm, providing indoor seating spanning nearly 1,000 square feet and an outdoor terrace. Tim Martin expressed his excitement about the Spanish opening, emphasizing its appeal to travelers and hinting at potential future overseas ventures.
The menu boasts a variety of dishes, including sausages, chips, burgers, and local specialties like garlic prawns and Spanish omelette. When it comes to beverages, prices range from 5.95 to 9.95 euros, featuring popular options like Amstel, Stella Artois, Guinness, and BrewDog Punk IPA.
The pub’s first customers, such as builder Paul Denovan and holidaymakers Karen and Steven Hooper, praised the establishment for its convenience and familiar Wetherspoon atmosphere. The relaxed ambiance quickly drew in patrons, with the venue attracting a steady flow of visitors by midday.
As a strategic move to cater to the high influx of British tourists in Costa Blanca, the pub at Alicante airport aims to capture a significant market share. Wetherspoon’s expansion plans include partnerships with franchise operators, aligning with its growth strategy.
Having weathered industry challenges, Wetherspoon’s latest initiative underscores its resilience and adaptability in catering to consumer preferences. The Alicante airport pub, managed by franchise operator Lagardère Travel Retail, marks a milestone in the company’s expansion efforts.