Selecta x Stansted Airport Project
At London Stansted Airport, Selecta’s cutting-edge self-serve technology met Nebrak’s design and build expertise. The result? Read on.
Posted
Project Overview
London Stansted Airport needed a refreshment solution that matched the pace of modern air travel. Once passengers entered Satellite 2, they no longer had access to the main terminal, creating a need for convenient food and drink immediately before boarding.
Working alongside Selecta, Nebrak designed, manufactured and installed a fully branded automated retail environment that transformed an unused unit into a welcoming self-service destination. Built around Nebrak’s Operandi modular vending surround system, the finished environment combines premium refreshment technology with thoughtful design to improve the passenger experience while making the most of a compact footprint
The Brief
With around 28 million passengers travelling through London Stansted Airport each year, every square metre has to work efficiently. The airport wanted to improve passenger convenience without introducing the operational costs and complexity of a staffed café.
The environment needed to:
- Provide quality refreshments before boarding
- Maximise a previously underused space
- Create a premium self-service destination
- Integrate multiple refreshment technologies
- Strengthen Selecta’s brand presence
- Be durable enough for continuous, high-footfall use
The Solution
Rather than simply housing vending equipment, Nebrak designed a complete automated retail environment centred around the passenger journey.
The Operandi modular framework brought together bean-to-cup coffee, heated food vending and smart refrigeration within one cohesive destination. Premium finishes, integrated branding and media displays helped transform individual machines into a retail environment that feels intuitive, organised and easy to use.
The modular design also provides long-term flexibility. As equipment, technology or branding evolves, individual elements can be updated without replacing the entire installation, helping protect future investment.
Behind the Build
Busy transport environments demand more than attractive interiors. Every design decision has to balance aesthetics, durability, maintenance and operational efficiency.
Operandi’s aluminium framework provided a robust structure capable of withstanding constant passenger use, while inset panels, precision trim sections and high-resolution graphics delivered a premium finish consistent with Selecta’s brand.
Manufacturing, print production and installation were all delivered through Nebrak’s in-house teams, allowing close control over quality throughout the project. Careful planning also ensured installation could be completed within the operational constraints of a live airport environment.
The result is a refreshment destination that supports both passenger experience and long-term operational performance.
Good materials do more than improve appearance. They help automated retail environments perform reliably in demanding public spaces.
For this project, the lightweight aluminium Operandi framework provided strength without unnecessary bulk, making installation and future modifications more straightforward.
Durable inset panelling, with premium printed graphics were selected to withstand continuous passenger traffic while maintaining a clean, high-quality appearance.
COLLABORATIVE PROCESS
From initial briefing and site survey to design and installation, we work with you every step of the way to deliver a tailored solution.
EXPERT IN-HOUSE TEAM
Our designers, joiners, and installers collaborate closely, ensuring a smooth process and a high-quality finish.
FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS
From remodelling existing spaces to designing from scratch, we create cost-effective solutions that make the most of your environment.
Stephen Martin – London Stansted Airport
“We’re very pleased to team up with Selecta to offer our passengers this convenient and innovative grab-and-go concept offering a broad range of products that can be adapted to our customers’ tastes. The airside location and enhanced environment Selecta has created make it a convenient stop for those looking to pick up any last-minute needs before their flight.”
Project Outcome
This installation demonstrates how thoughtful design can help technology perform at its best.
By combining Selecta’s self-service refreshment solutions with Nebrak’s expertise in automated retail environments, an unused airport unit became a welcoming destination that supports passengers throughout the day while helping maximise commercial opportunities within the terminal.
According to Selecta’s performance data following launch, the installation achieved:
Project Installation Gallery
All images shown are from a real Nebrak project delivered for Selecta at Standsted Airport.
Project Highlights
Automated retail environment at London Stansted Airport
Repurposed underused airport retail space
Integrated refreshment facilities
Integrated coffee, heated food and smart refrigeration
Premium passenger-focused design
High-resolution print and branding by Nebrak
Designing Better Education Catering Spaces Starts Here
Planning a school canteen refurbishment, college café upgrade or university dining project?
Nebrak designs and delivers education catering environments that support students, staff and catering teams alike. From school dining facilities and sixth form colleges to university refreshment hubs and social spaces, we create practical, welcoming environments designed around the people who use them every day.
Our complete in-house service includes design, manufacture, print, branding, logistics and installation.
Ready to explore your project? Contact our team today to discuss your requirements and discover how we can help create a workplace refreshment space that delivers lasting value for your business and the people who use it.
Related product solutions
Vending Sense ExhIbition Project
Vendaid x Orkla House Care Project