Airport Experience® News - Food & Beverage Issue 2026

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Airport Bars Remain Resilient Despite Consumption Trending Down

It’s no secret that alcohol consumption is down nationwide, and experts say there are several factors at play. “Health and wellness trends are a big one, along with moderation and changing lifestyle habits, especially among younger consumers, and cost sensitivity also plays a role,” says Brittany Varno, national beverage manager for Paradies Lagardère . “Guests are just being more intentional. They still want to enjoy themselves, but they’re thinking more carefully about quality, value and whether the experience fits the moment.” Despite this pressure on bar business, the airport bar remains uniquely positioned to persevere even as bars on the street struggle. “There’s a broader moderation trend, but the airport environment continues to behave differently than traditional street-side hospitality,” notes Tyler Pitman, senior vice president of concept development, brand partners and adult beverage in North America for Avolta . “Travel naturally creates occasion-based alcohol consumption, and what we’ve seen is less of a decline in demand overall and more of an evolution in what travelers are looking for.” Richard Verrecchia, director of beverage and standards for Areas USA , notes that while overall alcohol consumption trends remain soft, there are “pockets of opportunity in airport environments, particularly during periods of increased TSA delays and extended dwell times.

BY SALLY KRAL

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AX NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026