Wetherspoons is set to expand its presence in Spain by opening two new pubs within Josep Tarradellas Barcelona – El Prat airport. This announcement follows the recent launch of the company’s inaugural pub in Spain at Alicante Airport.
Founder and CEO, Tim Martin of JD Wetherspoon, has expressed his ambition to grow internationally, with a focus on airport locations. The renowned chain, affectionately known as Spoons by its patrons, currently operates nearly 800 pubs across the UK.
The first of the two new pubs at El Prat airport is scheduled to open in Terminal 1 this September, with the second one in Terminal 2 following in January next year. Both establishments will be located airside, post-security but pre-passport control.
Operated by Ibersol Group, a leading franchise brand operator in Spanish and Portuguese travel, the unnamed pubs will collectively offer over 5,700 square feet (530 square meters) of customer space, catering to nearly 600 guests. Operating hours will run from 5am to 11pm daily, with food service available until an hour before closing. The menu will feature a variety of dishes found in British pubs, including breakfast options, burgers, pizzas, local specialties, and real ale.
Known for its unique carpet designs in UK establishments reflecting local elements, Wetherspoons will continue this tradition at the El Prat pubs with individualized carpeting. Martin expressed enthusiasm about securing prime locations at Barcelona airport, citing the positive reception of the Alicante airport pub among travelers.
The Alicante airport pub, tailored for holidaymakers returning from Benidorm and the Costa Blanca, showcases Spanish tiles instead of the traditional Wetherspoons carpet. Though smaller than most UK branches, it offers a similar menu with a few local variations, reflecting higher airport prices compared to high street locations.
For example, a traditional breakfast at €10.25 (£8.94) is pricier than the UK counterpart at £5.09, while a bacon, sausage, or vegetarian sandwich costs €5.95 (£5.19). Local dishes such as garlic prawn specialties, Spanish omelette, and broken eggs are also available. Beverage prices, like a pint of Stella Artois lager at €5.95 (£5.19), are aligned with typical airport rates.
Looking ahead, Martin reiterated plans to establish more international pubs, particularly in airport settings, leveraging the significant overseas market potential. He drew parallels with the success of coffee shops in countries like China, underscoring the growth opportunities in the hospitality sector.
