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Just over a month ago during the Kaiserslautern Military Community Center first stage of opening, base officials opened the doors of several 86th Services Squadron facilities – Ramstein Inn’s Visitor’s Quarters, Outdoor Recreation, Romano’s Macaroni Grill, Ramstein Tickets and Tours, the Sports Lounge, a Shoppette, the Wasgau German bakery and the “Window to Rheinland Pfalz” information center.
Now final preparations are being made for the phase two opening of the food court, more than 25 permanent and 15 roving concessionaries, the four-plex movie theater and credit unions, scheduled for Aug. 15. It is no small feat opening a more than 844,000-square-foot base exchange including shopping, entertainment and dining options. More than 90 workers from electricians and contractors to 65 venders and numerous other food service workers have worked for months getting everything ready for their first customers.
“This is the largest AAFES facility in the world. We know it is going to be a destination for customers all throughout Europe,” said Stephanie Burns, KMCC Army and Air Force Exchange Service manager. “We expect a large turnout of patrons excited to see our new shops, and they will not be disappointed.”
The KMCC food court will feature all the amenities Ramstein BX patrons have come to expect as well as a Captain D’s Seafood Kitchen, Manchu Wok Chinese cuisine, Hofbräu Haus and Johnny Rockets American style restaurant.
“I am truly ecstatic for this day to finally come; I have seen the KMCC from the ground breaking to seeing it open,” said Mike Sitrin, KMCC food court manager.
In addition to shops that are currently available at the local exchanges, the facility will host several concept shops including The Body Shop, Swarovski Crystal, SIB featuring Oakley, Polish Pottery, an extended day spa and more.
“More than 100 people will be working here next week,” said KMCC Services’ Business Manager Kim Sanders.
And of course, what many members of the KMC are excited about is the four-plex movie theater.
The theater contains state of the art technology, has the capability to show the same movie on all four screens or four different movies at the same time and includes stadium seating for 500. The first movie, science-fiction thriller “District 9,” is scheduled to play at 11 a.m. opening day at the new theater.
“There’s not a bad seat in the house,” Mrs. Burns said. “This type of theater is a first for AAFES in Europe.”
“There are so many new things for customers to see when they enter this facility,” Mr. Sitrin said. “I expect a lot of oohs and ahs.”
KMC residents should be aware the last day of operation for the Ramstein concession mall and food court will be August 14. The Hercules, Nightingale and Galaxy Theaters will remain open at this time.
The final phase of opening, which will include the AAFES BX, is projected in late September.
