Cabinet approves three-year contracts for four food chain operators at BIA

The Cabinet of Ministers at their meeting on Sunday approved a series of contracts worth $ 7.22 million, following an international competitive bidding process to attract four recognised food chain operators to the departure/emigration area of Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake. 

The new agreements, which span three years, are part of a broader effort to enhance the airport experience and generate additional revenue from retail services. 

The decision was made after six bidders participated and a retailed evaluation was conducted by both a technical evaluation committee and the standing procurement committee appointed by the Cabinet. Four operating slots were allocated in designated areas labelled as 20-D, 29-D, 39-D and 42-D each to be managed by a selected operator. 

Under the terms of the contracts, HMS Host Services India Ltd. was awarded slot 20-D with a contract value of $ 1.57 million plus applicable tax, while Barista Coffee Lanka Ltd. was awarded slot 29-D at $ 0.60 million plus tax. For slot 39-D Jubilant Food Works Lanka Ltd. was awarded the contract for $ 1.99 million plus taxes and Gamma Pizzakraft Lanka Ltd. was awarded slot 42-D with a contract value of $ 3.06 million plus tax.  

Addressing the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said the move is seen as a crucial component of the Government’s ongoing efforts to modernise airport facilities, following the recent visit by Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Bimal Rathnayake.