Richard A. Griesbach Award for Excellence in Airport Concessions
Airport’s Council International (2024)
Kansas City, USA
Kansas City International Airport | MCI
Vantage Group is the developer and manager of the award-winning concession program at Kansas City International Airport’s new single terminal, which opened in 2023. Over a 15-year term, Vantage is delivering a unique Kansas City-inspired shopping and dining experience.
Showcasing the Best of Kansas City
Our regionally inspired shopping and dining program features nearly 50 concepts, of which 80% are local to the region. Together, they showcase the best of the region’s flavors, skilled artisans and makers, rich history, and immersive experiences.
To bring the program to life, Vantage built a strong partnership with the Kansas City Aviation Department and a robust and diverse local team of minority equity partners, concession operators, airport retailers, and local businesses, including OHM Concessions Group, and WHSmith North America.
By the Numbers
The important metrics of our concession program at Kansas City International Airport.
80%
Local dining and shopping experiences
1000
New jobs created
$1.5B
Anticipated concession sales over the course of the contract
$65M
Capital invested by Vantage Group
60%+
Leading airport disadvantaged business participation, four times the minimum requirement (pending certifications)
$20M
First-of-its-kind Opportunity Fund dedicated to supporting small, local, minority, and women-owned businesses now operating at the airport
I am delighted to celebrate the first birthday of Kansas City International Airport’s wonderful new terminal alongside the many local people and businesses that are creating a great experience for every visitor. As we have continued passenger travel growth, more and more visitors will get the opportunity to delight in the best of KC’s flavors and traditions, like those celebrated at the Made For KC BBQ Experience restaurant.
Melissa Cooper
Kansas City Director of Aviation
Sense of Place™, Kansas City-Style
A true airport first and a cornerstone of Vantage’s program, MCI is home to the Made for KC BBQ Experience, a restaurant and immersive experience showcasing Kansas City’s world-famous barbecue.
The tantalizing aromas of BBQ emanate from the restaurant’s onsite smoker, where talented barbecue pitmasters serve their signature dishes to visitors, Kansas Citians, and employees.
Social Impact Beyond the Terminal
At MCI, we prioritize strong relationships with the local community and cultural institutions. A prime example of this commitment is Turn the Page KC by WHSmith, a bespoke book and gift shop that supports the local literacy advocacy group for which it is named.
Our complimentary in-terminal programming, such as the MCI Summer Lit Fest, builds awareness with travelers and local Kansas citians beyond the community. This dedication to community engagement was recognized with the Moodies 2023 Travel Journey award for Best Example of Community Engagement.
Excellence in Airport Concessions
Best New News & Gift Concept – 18th & Vine
Airport’s Council International (2024)
Best Overall Commercial Program, Medium/Small Airports
Airport Experience News Awards of Excellence (2024)
Airport Food & Beverage Offer of the Year for the Americas & Caribbean
Airport Food and Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Awards (2024)
Award-Winning in Year One
2024 Airport Experience Awards
In its first year of operation, Vantage’s locally inspired concession program at MCI took home top honors at Airport Experience News’ prestigious 2024 Airport Excellence Awards, one of the largest gatherings of commercial executives and concession operators in North America.
Best Overall Program
MCI’s regional program, with array of options in its food, retail, and services program that satisfies the needs and tastes of a range of travelers
Best Local Inspired Restaurant
The Kansas City BBQ Experience, an immersive dining, shopping, and entertainment concept
Best Casual Dining Concept
Brown & Loe, a favorite local restaurant featuring New American cuisine
Best Passenger Service
Directors Cut Take II, a unique barbershop and cocktail experience
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