Airport Experience® News - Leadership & Culture Issue 2023

HFF’s Understory (coming soon to SAN’s new T1)

As High Flying Foods expands its presence, how do you plan to continue and evolve the company’s legacy? Zac: Our dedication to local concepts is fundamental to our ethos, reflecting our belief that airports should capture the character and culture of their cities. Our focus is on partnering with airports and restaurants that are shaping the future of dining in their cities, ensuring our airport operations maintain the authenticity and quality of their original locations with zero brand dilution. Colton: It’s about celebrating and showcasing the unique culinary offerings of local communities. We’re constantly seeking emerging local brands and chefs who share our vision for authentic, high quality dining experiences. Simultaneously, as a design-focused company, we strive to achieve a ‘wow’ factor in every space we develop. We infuse local architectural and cultural elements into our designs, creating spaces that resonate with the community’s spirit and are enjoyable and fulfilling for everyone involved.

As young leaders shaping the strategic direction of High Flying Foods, how do you intend to utilize your experiences to reshape the company’s future? Zac: Drawing from my background as a project engineer in high-rise residential construction, I bring a deep appreciation for building with an ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) mindset to High Flying Foods. We’re focused on creating sustainable and socially responsible environments, a principle that guides our expansion. We’re committed to this ethos throughout the lifecycle of each location, from design to operations. Colton: My experience in private equity, both in Switzerland and New York, has shown me the importance of intentional growth for a company’s success. At High Flying Foods, we plan to harness this insight to strategically expand our unique brand to new locations across the country. We aim to grow in areas where there’s a demand for the distinctive High Flying Foods experience, focusing on markets that resonate with our brand ethos and values.

HIGH FLYING FOODS