Areas USA

08/04/2023

Areas’ Culinary Spirit Casts a Positive Light on Airport Food
Areas USA is on a mission to dispel the notion that airport food is substandard. We can’t erase that perception for the entire industry, but a culinary richness is permeating the Areas system and one of the reasons is because we have business executives whose corporate roles interlock with their origins in and around the culinary world.
Take for example Tom Keon, Director of Business Development. For decades Tom has shown his appreciation for high-quality and expertly prepared food through his work. He still has an ownership position in Ridgewells Catering where he was President for over 20 years and notes the company prides itself in being on the cutting edge of culinary trends. “I began in food service at the age of 15 working at Friendly’s Ice Cream as a dishwasher. I’ve held every position, including night chef, in the restaurant business. Fifty years later it remains a passion of mine and I am constantly on the lookout for what’s next and fabulous in our industry.”

06/30/2023

Areas USA has a special treat in store for motorists heading Southbound along I-77 on the West Virginia Turnpike when they turn off on Exit 69. Mountain State Café is now open where can enjoy a bevy of tasty delights like an authentic West Virginia pepperoni cheese roll, handmade from scratch by local Mountian Top Pepperoni Roll Co. Pair it with a hot cup of locally brewed roasted coffee by Mountain Coffee Roaster. Pick up a scrumptious slaw dog with a side of crispy nachos or indulge in a chicken salad sandwich or grilled cheese on Texas toast. A delectable assortment of breakfast favorites including bagel or croissant sandwiches, buttermilk, and blueberry pancakes, and fresh bakery items will satisfy every morning appetite.
West Virginia Parkways Authority

06/19/2023

Areas USA is proud to celebrate Juneteenth and reflect on the importance of this day symbolizing freedom for enslaved African Americans. This annual observance holds immense importance as it recognizes the resilience, strength, and remarkable achievements of Black communities throughout the country. We are excited to have partnered with Gerry A. Fernandez, President and Founder of Multicultural Foodservice & Hospitality Alliance (MFHA), as we develop our , Equity, and Inclusion program. Below you will hear Gerry talking about Juneteenth, its history and what we can do to show our support. National Restaurant Association

06/14/2023

Today, we proudly celebrate the beautiful diversity and unity of our nation! As we raise our flags high, we reflect on the importance of embracing different cultures and creating unforgettable travel experiences for everyone. ✈️❤️

06/14/2023

Congratulations to Marlene Coleman, Areas USA’s Director of Strategic Alliances, for her election as At-Large Director on Airport Minority Advisory Council’s Board! Team Areas was in full support of AMAC’s 2023 Conference in San Antonio this week participating in valuable sessions, events and as a proud sponsor.

06/09/2023

At Areas, our team and the “Spirit of Belonging” is one of our main pillars. We’re committed to fostering excellence, belonging, growth and responsibility. We love celebrating our valued team members! Today we celebrate the promotion of Rose Marthe, who has been with the company since 2019 at Wendy’s, Ft. Drum Service Plaza FLTP. Rose has persevered through COVID, long days and COVID related staffing challenges. As a Haitian-American, she has overcome language barriers and other operational challenges to become promoted to Supervisor. A big deal and well earned. Putting her in a leadership position also helps to shore up our Core Team Members, who also come from diverse backgrounds. We congratulate Rose on her well deserved promotion!

Shown in the photo below: Jose L Nieves, Wendy’s Concept Manager at Ft. Drum Service Plaza on left and GM Ronald Coburn on the right.

05/29/2023

🇺🇸 Honoring and remembering the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom this Memorial Day. 🙏✨
Let's also take a moment to express our gratitude and pay tribute to those who have served our country. 🎗️✈️
At Areas USA we understand the importance of commemorating the sacrifices made by our military personnel. We are proud to offer exceptional hospitality and service to those who have served and continue to serve our nation.
This Memorial Day, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to all veterans, active-duty members, and their families for their unwavering dedication and commitment.
Whether you're traveling to visit loved ones, explore new destinations, or simply take a break, we're here to ensure your experience is memorable and enjoyable. 🌍✨
Join us as we honor and remember our fallen heroes, cherish the moments with our loved ones, and embrace the spirit of travel this Memorial Day weekend. 🌺🗺️

05/14/2023

On this special day, let’s take a moment to honor the incredible mothers who have nurtured and guided us, while also appreciating the joy of travel and hospitality that brings us closer together💕✈️

05/12/2023

Areas USA is excited to support Marlene Coleman as a candidate for the At-Large, Director position on the Airport Minority Advisory Council's Board of Directors. Her dedication, experience, and commitment to economic for minorities and women in the aviation industry, make her the ideal choice for the AMAC Board.
Marlene’s origins and aspirations are rooted in airport concessions. With over 20 years in the business, she is the best candidate for this position. Her qualifications:
👉 Pioneer in developing training programs that increased minority and female business participation in City Government and Airport contracting opportunities.
👉 for women and minority businesses.
👉 Former leader of ATL’s concessions program for over a decade.
👉 Relationship builder between airports ✈ and concessionaires.
👉 Educator on complex issues, breaking down barriers to entry.
👉 Navigator of municipalities, commissions, and government entities.
Marlene has proven to be a passionate crusader for AMAC’s overall mission and by leveraging her expertise in all of these areas, she will make a meaningful contribution to the organization and help drive positive change in the aviation industry. Vote for Marlene when AMAC’s voting process opens from June 1-12

Airport Minority Advisory Council

05/09/2023

Areas USA was a proud sponsor of the 2023 National ProStart Invitational in Washington, DC this past weekend, where 400 students from over 90 high schools from 46 states competed for a chance to win $200,000 in scholarships. Participants were given the opportunity to showcase their best culinary talents or restaurant business aptitude.

“I grew up in this industry and was lucky enough to have many mentors help me develop,” says Richard Schneider, Chief Business Development Officer for Areas. “Now I am getting to watch the talent and passion of these students and it was amazing. I was so impressed with their commitment to their craft as well as the educators who have guided them. The future of our industry is promising.”

Areas is honored to support the ProStart Program educators, students, and families on this amazing journey.
Congratulations to all the winners!
Culinary Winners:
👉 🥇 Plymouth Canton Educational Park – Canton, Michigan
👉 Caesar Rodney High School – Camden, Delaware
👉 Newport High School – Bellevue, Washington
👉 Career & Technology Center – Williamston, South Carolina
👉 Broadmoor Bistro @ The Center for Academic Achievement – Overland Park, Kansas

Management Winners
👉 Wilbur Cross High School – New Haven, Connecticut
👉 Ben Barber Innovation Academy – Mansfield, Texas
👉 San Dimas High School – San Dimas, California
👉 Andover Central High School – Andover, Kansas
👉 Chalmette High School – Chalmette, Louisiana


National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF)
ProStart Program

05/03/2023

Areas USA was proud to support and share a star-studded evening at the annual Homeboy Industries gala where avid supporters were honored, and graduates of the program were celebrated.
Co-hosts Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin regaled the audience with humor and laughter while many of the brave individuals who have transformed their lives revealed their touching stories.
“It was so moving and inspirational to hear from people who have turned their lives around with the help and guidance of Homeboy,” says Ayaz Siddiki, Regional Director of Operations. “I am so proud that Areas has partnered with this organization to help it carry on this mission.”
Homeboy Industries provides , training, and support to formerly gang-involved people allowing them to redirect their lives and become contributing members of their . Featured in the photo from left to right are Areas USA team members: Molly Martinez – Concept Manager, Homeboy Café, Celia Gomez, Assistant General Manager LAX, Marquita Billhardt, Assistant General Manager LAX, Ayaz Siddiki, Regional Director of Operations and Rachel Maldonado-Centeno, Senior Human Resource Manager

Homeboy Industries Rachel Maldonado-Centeno Ayaz Siddiki

04/26/2023

Areas USA welcomes Brian Holtman to Business Development team
As, a leader in travel hospitality, Areas USA is pleased to announce the appointment of Brian Holtman as Director of Business Development.
Brian strengthens the Areas Business Development team with his wealth of varied experience spanning nearly 20 years in the airport concessions space as a developer, airline, and concessionaire.
Brian worked for BAA USA (now Fraport) and was instrumental in the redevelopment of Baltimore-Washington International’s concessions program. During this time, he held several diverse roles from operations management to design and development work on the concessions program. Later he became a key member of the start-up team overseeing the redevelopment of Cleveland Hopkins International’s program.
Brian then went on to JetBlue Airways where he was responsible for retail development, property management, and leasing for JFK Terminal 5. He was involved with space planning, concept and operator selection, lease negotiations, design and construction, marketing and promotions, and in-terminal event and entertainment planning. He then ventured into the concessionaire side of the business with Vino Volo where he assisted in growing the brand by building on new and existing business. In 2019, when Paradies Lagardére acquired Hojeij Branded Foods (parent of Vino Volo) he joined the ranks of that company.
Brian briefly strayed from airports with his most recent position with Sodexo Live!, where he was responsible for strategic business growth. The company services venues such as stadiums, arenas, convention and conference centers, zoos, and museums.
"I am excited to be back in the airport hospitality industry,” says Brian. “It’s a great time to be a part of the Areas team as we continue to grow our presence in airports.”
Areas is a global leader in the travel hospitality industry, operating 1,900 outlets in airports, travel plazas, train stations, and leisure centers in 10 countries around the world.
The company's US division, Areas USA, operates over 130 restaurants and retail stores in nine major airports and 13 travel plazas in three states. International airport locations in the US include Los Angeles, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Miami, Chicago, Newark, Atlanta, Orlando, Detroit, and Indianapolis. Areas USA also operates travel plazas along the turnpikes in Florida, Maryland, and West Virginia.

04/22/2023

Areas USA is committed to reducing our environmental impact. That's why we're proud to use renewable energy sources and implement water conservation measures to help protect the planet. Areas USA’s VP of Concepts & Standards, Steve Byrne has incorporated echo-friendly initiatives such as:
👉Reducing food waste in 70% of our restaurants by replacing trash cans in kitchens with clear plastic containers. “People are more thoughtful about what they are throwing away if they can see it,” says Steve. After the first three days of an awareness strategy, Areas saw a reduction of 3-4 gallons of food waste per day. Prior to the program, entire trash can liners were emptied three times per day.
👉Recently at the Culinary Institute of America for the Global Plant Forward Conference, Steve presented Areas USA’s plan to introduce the “finless” tuna product (vegan) teed up for menus in Florida at Miami International Airport (MIA) and Houston, Texas at the William P Hobby Airport (HOU) where it will debut as a “tataki” salad.
👉Areas USA is in process of integrating a program in Florida that will conserve the earths most precious offering….water. The conservation initiative involves implementing a water flow system that controls the flow of water into our facilities using data of past water usage, thus reducing the gallons.
Areas is proud to prioritize sustainability. Let’s work together to make a positive impact on the world one trip at a time. 🌍🤝

Miami International Airport William P. Hobby Airport

04/21/2023

Areas USA’s General Manager Sana Nadeem and her team members at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)✈️ show their by giving back to the Newark , volunteering their time through the Whole Cities Foundation at the Giving One Tenth Community Garden- a green space for families to grow and eat organically. The Whole Cities Foundation has partnered with over 250 nonprofits within the US and Canada, contributing more than $4 million to local communities. Areas USA's EWR teams volunteer work included a variety of tasks such as cleaning up weeds, moving plant beds, building new beds, and planting flowers. Not only did their efforts help keep the gardens beautiful and well maintained, it also provided an opportunity for Team EWR volunteers to connect with nature and with each other. 🌎🫶🌳

Whole Cities Foundation Giving OneTenth Newark Liberty International Airport - EWR

04/14/2023

Jameel Shakir, Areas USA’s General Manager at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport understands how the importance of building relationships within the community by engaging with the people. . Ultimately this connection strengthens the community social fabric and develops new leaders. This is why for Jameel it has become a commitment for him and his team to put in the time to give back to the Atlanta community. Pictured below Jameel and Areas Admin Manager at ATL Felisha Powell showed the ATL community how , by volunteering their time and promoting public education with Page Turners Make Great Learners. The local non-profit partners with schools in and around Atlanta with a motto to “encourage and motivate students to read through a variety of supplemental experiences.” Jameel and Felisha read books to students in multiple kindergarten classrooms at Deerwood Academy Elementary School. Jameel says, “Reading to kids is a great opportunity to give back.” To learn more about opportunities to volunteer with Page Turners, visit their website: https://lnkd.in/ezvZM8xK. Future Areas USA community participation is planned later this month for the “Flint River Cleanup,” a sustainability project at a river located on the south side of Atlanta. “As a stakeholder in the airport, we need to do more than just business here. We need to be part of the community,” says Jameel. 👏🫶 Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Jameel Shakir

04/07/2023

In celebration of National Beer Day, Areas USA would like to show you a peak at three incredible breweries that are coming to our location at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). We are eager to show off our new beer selections upon opening in May and look forward to providing you with an outstanding travel, hospitality experience!
SpindleTap Brewery Buffalo Bayou Brewing Company 8th Wonder Brewery

04/06/2023

Today we recognize our Areas USA Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) team for their operational excellence. Featured below left, the Port Authority of New Jersey recognized Areas USA General Manager Sana Nadeem and fellow associates for Exceptional Customer Service provided to guests at EWR. Additionally featured on the right, Areas team members from StrEAT restaurant in terminal B at EWR, were recognized for going above and beyond to provide operational support to fellow colleagues and guests. Great teams make great leaders.

03/20/2023

Areas USA Appoints Richard Schneider
Chief Development Officer

Areas is pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Schneider as Chief Development Officer, a move that will help the company further execute its aggressive growth strategy in the US.

For the past three years, Richard had led the operations team as COO while engaged in many business development efforts making his transition a beneficial advancement for the company. Richard brings a wealth of experience and valuable relationships built throughout his 27 years in the hospitality industry.

"I am honored to take on this role. This is an exciting time for Areas as we continue to accelerate our growth strategy and seize on the many upcoming opportunities that are a good fit for us," says Rich. "We are a company being recognized as a formidable player in the industry because of the proven value we provide to our clients and guests."

"When we were recruiting someone to lead the BD team it became clear to me that Richard was the right person for the job," says CEO Carlos Bernal. "He has an operating background, understands design, construction, brands, deal terms, and what it takes to win business in the airport environment. He also understands the political and ACDBE landscape. We are pleased he has accepted this new role."

Prior to joining Areas, Schneider led the foodservice and hospitality business at Spectra in Philadelphia. Prior to that, he served as COO of the Sportservice and Travel divisions at Delaware North. Richard has also held executive positions with Trump Entertainment, MGM Grand Resorts, Caesar's Entertainment, and Midwest Gaming.

Richard will be responsible for leading the business development team in identifying, attracting, and establishing new client relationships to develop and grow the business. He is also responsible for maintaining current relationships with clients, stakeholders, and brand partners. Additionally, he will be leading brand and concept development, governmental affairs, community engagement, strategic partnerships as well as design and construction.

Areas USA operates over 130 restaurants and retail stores in nine major airports and 13 travel plazas in three states. In the US, Areas operates restaurants and retail stores in these airports: Los Angeles International, Minneapolis-St. Paul International, Miami International, Chicago O'Hare International, Newark Liberty International, Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International, Orlando International, Detroit Metro Airport, and Indianapolis International. Areas USA also operates travel plazas along the turnpikes in Florida, Maryland, and West Virginia.

03/09/2023

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ANNOUNCEMENT ALERT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Areas Wins $470 Million, 10-Year Contract at Houston Hobby Airport

Areas, USA has won a contract to operate 10 new restaurants in both the East and West Concourses at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). The contract will generate an estimated $470 million in total revenue over the 10-year term and produce $104 million for Houston Airports. Areas plans to hire more than 200 people to staff the locations on both sides of the TSA Security area.
On Wednesday, March 8, the Houston City Council approved the contract finalizing Areas’ win. The company will invest approximately $19 million to revitalize 19,000 square feet of food and beverage space, representing half of the airport’s total concessions space.
“The new concessions package brings together an all-star list of fantastic dining concepts that includes well-known Houston restaurants and national brands,” said Jim Szczesniak, A.A.E, Chief Operating Officer for Houston Airports. “Houston Airports is relentless in our quest to make our passengers happy. I am confident these new concessions will elevate the already incredible experience guests of Hobby Airport have come to expect from the first and only 5-Star airport in North America.”
“We are excited to partner with the City of Houston to bring a distinctive program that complements the city’s culinary virtues and ethnic diversity,” says Carlos Bernal, CEO of Areas. “Travelers to William P. Hobby Airport will be delighted by an exceptional lineup of concepts, which represent the essence of the city’s greatness.”
This latest Houston win is a significant addition to Areas’ US portfolio and advances the company’s aggressive growth strategy while increasing its prominence in the airport travel hospitality space.
Areas brings four experienced joint venture partners to the operations, a powerful group of local operators who together exceed the airport’s minority participation requirement. The partners include Alliance Hospitality Management LLC, Multiplex, Inc., Creative Concourse Concessions, and Cediel Management Concessions.
The Areas program is designed to appeal to the palates and demands of HOU’s dynamic with a thoughtful balance of local, national, trending, and traditional concepts ensuring a wide range of appeal. Some of the brands being introduced include Throughgood Coffee Bistro & Bar, Starbucks, Yard House, SpindleTap Brewery, Killen’s Barbecue, and The Spot.

Houston City Council approves second of two food and beverage concession contracts for Hobby Airport From Killen’s Barbeque to The Spot; premier local dining options are among 10 new restaurants joining the world-class culinary portfolio at the first and only 5-Star airport in North America. March...

03/06/2023

Yesterday we participated at the 2023 Chicago , supporting Special Olympics Chicago/Special Children's Charities! The event supports athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities all across Chicago. Shown from left to right in the photo below are members of team Areas, United States: Pascal Castiau, Director of Operations at Chicago O'Hare International Airport; Ayaz Siddiki, Director of Operations; Sal Mendola, CCC, Director of Brands and Brian Holtman, Director of Business Development. Areas made a monetary contribution of $5K and donated over 2500 bottles of water.

02/24/2023

Roz Mallet, founder and CEO PhaseNext Hospitality, and ACDBE subtenant of Areas USA, at MSP Airport, reveals her most admired Black American.
The first person who comes to mind is Colin Powell. He is someone that I had an opportunity to spend time with because of my work on the National Restaurant Association Board. We were able to bring him in as a speaker for us during our annual restaurant show.
His approach to leadership goes beyond just being a successful, dedicated military leader. He thought about leadership beyond a singular job application. He recognized that as a Black American creating first-time career experiences, he could be an effective role model for what is possible; the first African American Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. What he taught during and after his military career was about being a servant leader, based on sharing his knowledge and experience.
When he retired, he spent a lot of time working with youth; he had a balanced approach to his life that went beyond his career. When I asked him a couple of times over the years, “Why didn’t you ever run for president?” he said, “It wasn’t going to be good for my family.” So, he knew what his values were and prioritized them.

02/22/2023

Areas USA celebrates Black History Month with highlights of Black Americans most admired for their influences on the lives of Areas team members and partners. They share their personal stories of how they have benefitted from the lessons and wisdom of these mentors. Today we hear from John Morris, Concept Manager of Peoples Organic in Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, Minnesota:
"As an African-American male who is also a Leader, and knows what challenges come along with commanding and demanding the best from your team, there are many great examples I have gained insight from over the years. I can only read books to glean fragments of how those who are not with us anymore, impacted society during their lives, and the legacy they leave for us going forward.

As a 41-year-old in today’s society, there is one leader who stands out most to me. That leader is Barack Hussein Obama II. Being the first Black President of The United States was an immense honor and obligation. He showed me that a Black man can win the popular vote in America, and become the Leader of the Free World.

Not only that, another thing I admire most about him, are his skills as an orator. He is a master of the art of public speaking. No matter what a person's political viewpoint was during his presidency, everyone felt the impact of the words that left his mouth. He understands the impact not only of words, but how his words are spoken. his understanding of tone, inflection, word choice, when to pause and the ability to adjust facial expression, was a perfect symphony. We were all roused and proud to be Americans after he spoke.

The ability to “win the room,” with your words is a talent that not everyone has. He showed every minority in America, that the pinnacle can be reached. That we all can put in the effort, put in the hours, lead by example, and people will follow. He motivated me to always think before I speak, because words “carry weight,” and if spoken wisely can motivate people to want to work with you.

Barack Obama is a wonderful example of understanding what Black people represent as we move forward into the future. His legacy will continue to motivate the youth of our country for generations into the future. Hopefully, we will have another African American/Black President, but none will ever be like President Barack Obama."
- John Morris

02/14/2023

This Valentine's Day Areas USA spread the love by giving away free drip coffee at Areas operated Dunkin Donuts locations along the Florida Turnpike. We love our customers!

02/09/2023

Read about the personal experience of Mike Ingle, Areas USA's General Manager: https://areasusanews.my.canva.site/

02/03/2023

Congratulations to Richard Schneider, Chief Operating Officer of Areas USA, for being named Treasurer of the National Restaurant Association! https://restaurant.org/research-and-media/media/press-releases/national-restaurant-association-and-national-restaurant-association-educational-foundation-name-2023/

02/01/2023

To honor the contributions and history of the African American culture, Areas USA and The King Center have partnered to bring the All ATL concept to the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in concourse D. Through it's merchandise this unique concept acknowledges that if we want true change in our communities, and we should all and show it throughout our daily lives. A variety of officially licensed and branded King Center merchandise including copies of Dr. Bernice King's book titled "It Starts With Me" (in English & Spanish), can be found inside the store. This is truly a win for all stakeholders, including the community, as well as the cause of .