Fraport USA and Nashville International Airport (BNA) marked the start of construction for the airport’s new retail concessions programme with an event held at the airport’s Concourse C foodcourt on Friday (25 October 2019). The first shops and restaurants were also announced which are due to open by spring 2020.

According to Fraport USA, its BNA retail programme will have a strong emphasis on local flavour and flair at more than 90 new locations once completed in 2023. Fraport took over the management of the BNA retail concession in February 2019, after winning the Nashville International Airport contract last summer amid strong competition.

Speaking at the launch event, Ben Zandi, President and CEO, Fraport USA commented: “Today, we are launching a visible transformation to the retail concessions programme at Nashville International Airport. Our goal is to bring a big, bold taste of Nashville directly to the airport and its millions of visitors.

“We are thrilled to deliver this iconic programme featuring diverse local operators and showcasing the best of Nashville and its region — alongside popular national brands.”

CONCESSION SPACE PLAN

Fraport USA has already executed leases for more than 60 locations, representing more than 66% of its future concessions space. Under Fraport USA’s concession programme, more than 133,000sq ft of concession space will be created for shops, restaurants and service outlets, as well as common-use areas for seating and entertainment.

It was also revealed at the event that BNA visitors will be able to enjoy Nashville originals such as Bajo Sexto, Pyramids Café, Swett’s Restaurant and The Urban Juicer. In addition, a total of 50 stores will be opened in 2020, including NaSah’s Nail Salon, The Arts District Market, Greetings from Nashville and Tennessee Brew Works.

BNA President and CEO Doug Kreulen commented: “As passenger traffic continues to increase dramatically at BNA, we have sought to improve the overall airport experience with a new and improved concessions programme.

“In particular, we welcome Fraport’s commitment to a concessions environment that embraces the authentic Nashville culinary scene and draws upon local ownership and participation. We look forward to the full implementation of the new programme as we move forward with our expansion plan at BNA.”

With the first new leases competed, BNA is preparing to welcome the Country Music Hall of Fame Museum store, Kijiji Coffee House, Peg Leg Porker, Prince’s Hot Chicken and the Tennessee Whiskey Trail, among various other local brands. Other new arrivals include Mac Cosmetics, Shake Shack and Starbucks Reserve.

Once fully developed, Fraport USA’s concessions programme will comprise a significant number of local restaurateurs and retailers, including a range of small, minority and woman-owned businesses.

Zandi commented: “From day one, Fraport USA has focused on reaching out to the local business community and we are on track to exceed an average of 45% tenant participation by Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprises. These independent operators will provide travellers with an authentic Nashville experience.”

Future developments at BNA also include new food courts, more live performance space and other amenities designed to enhance the passenger experience.