Welcome to the January issue of the Metropolitan Airport News. I hope you had a peaceful holiday season with your loved ones. As we prepare for a busy winter season around the airports between increased travel and weather events here in the Northeast, I’m still shaking off the calm from a wonderful holiday season spent with my family and friends. I traveled through JFK this past holiday season, and the thing that strikes me most about arriving at an airport, even though I work here, is that I immediately want to eat and shop when I’m traveling! I’m sure there is some psychology that goes into it from a terminal and concession design perspective, but whatever it is, it’s working on me.
This month’s issue shines a spotlight on the concessions that are available throughout the PANYNJ airports. There are many options, from locally owned food purveyors to high-end designers and everything in between. You have plenty of time to browse and shop if you get to the airport early, as I always do. Many retailers will offer discounts for SIDA-badged employees who use their shops. There’s no harm in asking, as we conduct significant business with them while working at the terminals.
Whether you are working or traveling, I hope you take advantage of the diverse options for dining and shopping at the terminals. They are well prepared to offer unique, healthy options that represent our local landscape. I can’t wait to see more of these concessions opening up in the new terminals.
Through my volunteer roles at the airport over the years, I can attest that the concessions are some of the most generous businesses with their time, talent and resources. They are quick to donate to the USO, huge amounts of supplies for the kids parties and raffle prizes to raise money for worthy causes. Not to mention, the volunteers often get treated to breakfast and lunch from our amazing concessionaires. A lot of good things beyond the passenger experience happen because of their vision for philanthropy and support of the community in which they serve.
If you would like to connect with us to offer ideas, share happenings, or just to introduce yourself, please send an email to [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you.
I’ll see you around the airports!
