Airport Experience® News - Post-Conference Issue 2025

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14 CEO Perspectives Seven concessions CEOs met with AXN’s Melissa Montes and Carol Ward for an update on the state of the industry. AXC CONFERENCE RECAP 18 Honoring Excellence The 2025 AX Awards recognized top performers in the airport concessions industry. 22 Let Me Tell You A Story… AXC Keynote Speaker Miri Rodriguez shared insights on creating a story for your brand to better engage with your target audience. AI, she says, can be a helpful tool to reaching that story goal. 24 Director Outlook In a panel moderated by ACI-NA’s Kevin Burke, four airport directors shared their insights on evolving the passenger experience. 26 A New Approach? Airport representatives, operators and consultants came together to discuss how concessions leases might be altered to better serve all parties. 30 Terminal Neighbors Lounges are capturing the attention of travelers, and concessions operators are feeling the competition. Can the two find harmony? 32 It’s A Woman’s World The panel discussion at the fifth annual Women In Leadership Breakfast at AXC focused on mentorship, allyship and ensuring a seat at the table.

36 Trends and Innovations Two sessions at AXC 2025 tapped subject matter experts to offer insights on everything from F&B trends to loyalty programs to digital twins and more. 40 It’s All In The Pitch Representatives of four companies eager for a spot in airports pitched their offerings during the Business Pitch Showcase at AXC. 42 Opportunities To Seize The industry is flush with opportunities. In front of a packed session room, twelve airports shared their upcoming opportunities for concessionaires. 46 Ah, Memories… Check out some candid shots from AXC 2025.

4 Letter From The Editor 6 Data Check Travelers expect a brand experience in airports, m1ndset research shows. 8 Latest Buzz Myrtle Beach International Airport is expanding, a response to rapid growth in tourism along South Carolina’s Grand Strand.

51 Advertising Index 52 Before You Take Off

Last year’s Silent Disco at San Francisco International Airport created a spark of joy in the airport’s Harvey Milk Terminal.

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AX NEWS MAY 2025