NEWS
Just days to go: World-class speaker line-up complete for FAB 2026 Conference in Bengaluru
INDIA. With under a week to go before the highly anticipated Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards 2026, the final speaker additions add further lustre to an already stellar programme, taking place on 7-8 July in Bengaluru.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report since 2011, the 15th anniversary edition of FAB is hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL).
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
A standout addition to the conference programme, Qatar Airways Chief Retail and Hospitality Officer Thabet (Tab) Musleh brings the travel retailer’s award-winning vision for airport hospitality to FAB 2026
Qatar Airways Chief Retail and Hospitality Officer Thabet Musleh adds his uniquely charasmatic presence to the conference line-up, where he will speak on ‘Aiming Beyond the Stars: How Qatar Duty Free is Redefining the Airport Lounge and Food & Beverage Space’.
One of the most respected and forward-thinking executives in the airport commercial revenues world, Musleh has been notable for driving an extraordinary retail and food & beverage transformation at Hamad International Airport in Doha.
{Click on the YouTube icon to view Part 2 of Airport Wonders of the World, a film series from Moodie Davitt STUDIO* dedicated as the name suggests to the world’s great airports. The inaugural production, a three-part series of short films dedicated to Hamad International Airport and Qatar Duty Free’s retail, dining, hospitality and leisure attractions, was launched in 2024 and shown onboard Qatar Airways. This episode focuses on Qatar Duty Free’s multi-FAB Award-winning food & beverage proposition, exploring the diverse, multi-cuisine, 200+ outlets dining offer that ranges from grab-and-go to accessibly priced food courts and fine-dining experiences – unforgettably encapsulated in the Louis Vuitton Lounge by Yannick Alléno}
Under Musleh’s inspired leadership, Qatar Duty Free has grown to over 4,000 employees and delivered strong commercial performance through experience-led hospitality and innovative retail concepts. He has been named among The Moodie Davitt Report’s People of the Year for five consecutive years (2021-2025) and received an Outstanding Contribution Award at the 2023 Frontier Awards.
Joining the discussion on ‘Designing Desire: How Airport Lounges are Shaping the Experience Economy’ are Aura Dezyne Founder, Visionary & Creative Strategist Payal Khanna; Travel Food Services Global Head of ARAYA Lounges Rajeev Panjwani; and Plaza Premium Group Chief Commercial Officer Jonathan Song.
The leaders shaping the next generation of airport lounge experiences: (from left) Plaza Premium Group Chief Commercial Officer Jonathan Song; Aura Dezyne Founder, Visionary & Creative Strategist Payal Khanna; and Travel Food Services Global Head of ARAYA Lounges Rajeev Panjwani
With more than two decades of experience and over 600 projects to her name, the ebullient Khanna has delivered acclaimed design concepts for airports, lounges, luxury residences and film studios around the world.
She designed the magnificent 080 Domestic and International Lounges at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru. Most recently, she created Gate Z, BIAL’s youth-focused lounge, reflecting her belief that airport design should create sensory, emotionally connected experiences that leave a lasting impression (look out for our exclusive story, coming soon).
Rajeev Panjwani is Global Head of ARAYA Lounges by Travel Food Services, leading the brand’s international growth, business development and strategic partnerships. With more than 30 years of experience in hospitality, travel retail and customer experience, he has held senior leadership roles with Coriander Leaf, SilverNeedle Hospitality and Wyndham Worldwide.
Another dynamic and charismatic figure, Jonathan Song leads Plaza Premium Group’s commercial strategy and global growth. Having been with his family’s company for over ten years, he continues to drive innovation in airport hospitality through technology, sustainability and human-centred design.
Bringing additional industry expertise to the ‘Raising the Bar in Indian Airport Food & Beverage’ panel is Semolina Kitchens Chief Executive Officer Chandan Tiwari. Semolina Kitchens is a powerful joint venture between Adani Airport Holdings and Travel Food Services.
A driving force behind airport F&B transformation in India, Semolina Kitchens Chief Executive Officer Chandan Tiwari joins the star-studded FAB 2026 line-up
With more than 26 years of experience, he has built expertise in large-scale operations, consumer experience, P&L management, marketing, food innovation, digitisation and business transformation.
Tiwari previously served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Marketing Officer at Yum! Restaurants India, where he helped scale KFC across South Asia, following 12 years with McDonald’s India.
Among the speakers joining the discussion on ‘Fresh by Tech: Would You Let AI Run Your Kitchen and F&B Operations?’ is Paradise Food Court (Paradise Biryani) Vice President – Technology & Food Quality Rajeesh VR.
A leading voice in technology-enabled food service, Paradise Food Court Vice President – Technology & Food Quality Rajeesh V R takes the FAB 2026 stage
With more than 15 years of experience across the F&B, retail and logistics sectors, Rajeesh V R is recognised for leading technology, food quality and business transformation initiatives, applying data and process engineering to drive operational excellence.
Some of India’s leading culinary innovators will take the stage for ‘Airport Lounges as Cultural Gateways – Hyperlocal Cuisine, Micro-Food Systems & the Future of Responsible Hospitality’. These include Farmlore Founder Chef Johnson Ebenezer; Naar Owner Chef Prateek Sadhu; Bawri & Tipa Founder Chef Amninder Sandhu; Lavonne Academy of Baking Science and Pastry Arts Chef Vinesh Johny; and Organic Mandya Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer Sahana Hegde.
Celebrating India’s rich culinary heritage, (from left) Farmlore Founder Chef Johnson Ebenezer; Bawri & Tipai Founder Chef Amninder Sandhu; and NAAR Owner Chef Prateek Sadhu discuss the role of regional cuisine in shaping tomorrow’s airport lounges
Widely known as Chef JE, Johnson Ebenezer is a leading advocate of hyperlocal, farm-to-table dining. After beginning his career with the Taj Group, he gained international experience on cruise liners and in the USA before helping launch the acclaimed Nadodi restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. He later returned to India to champion sustainable, culturally rooted cuisine.
A well-respected culinary innovator in India, Prateek Sadhu is the Chef-Owner of NAAR in Himachal Pradesh. Born in Kashmir and trained in some of the world’s leading kitchens, he travels extensively across India in search of wild, indigenous ingredients – drawing particular inspiration from the Himalayan belt.
Through his restaurant, NAAR, he showcases the Himalayan region’s indigenous ingredients, seasonality and culinary heritage.
Born in North India and raised in the Northeast, Amninder Sandhu champions traditional slow-cooking methods using open fire, no-seed oil techniques and heirloom recipes.
Dubbed ‘The Girl With Gold in Her Fingers’ by Chef Marco Pierre White, her achievements include the Best Lady Chef Award from India’s Ministry of Tourism (2016) and Chef of the Year at the Times Food Awards (2019).
Chef Vinesh Johny is Co-Founder of India’s pioneering baking academy, which he established in 2012 at the age of 24.
A chef, educator and entrepreneur, he has earned numerous accolades, including Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia (2016), Pastry Chef of the Year at the Restaurant India Awards (2016 and 2023), and a place on the World’s 50 Best ‘50 Next’ list (2022).
Championing craftsmanship, sustainability and authentic ingredients, Organic Mandya Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer Sahana Hegde (left) and Lavonne Academy of Baking Science and Pastry Arts Chef Vinesh Johny add fresh perspectives to FAB 2026
Johny also represented India as a WorldSkills Expert at Abu Dhabi 2017, helping secure the country’s first Silver Medal in Pastry Skills, and co-authored the cookbook New School Sweets. He continues to champion pastry arts education and mentor the next generation of baking professionals.
With Organic Mandya since its inception, Sahana Hegde has helped transform the business from a single retail store into a leading organic food brand. In her multifaceted role, she oversees operations, compliance and product innovation, championing certified organic standards while reviving traditional recipes and ingredients through clean-label products.
Bringing together leaders in digital transformation, the panel ‘Seamless Journeys Through Digital Innovation’ will feature GrayMatter Chief Executive Officer Vikas Gupta; BIAL Assistant Vice President & Head of Digital Strategy Neeraj Manoria; and iCoupon Global Director of Sales Viktoriya Soubra.
Shaping the future of seamless airport journeys: (From left) BIAL Assistant Vice President & Head of Digital Strategy Neeraj Manoria; iCoupon Global Director of Sales Viktoriya Soubra; and GrayMatter Chief Executive Officer Vikas Gupta
A technology entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience, Vikas Gupta founded GrayMatter to deliver AI, analytics and digital solutions for airports and other industries. He previously served as Co-Founder and CTO of Manthan Systems and has advised Airports Council International.
Having worked at over 80 airports in more than 40 markets, he brings deep expertise in space planning, revenue forecasting, customer insight and brand development.With over 25 years of experience in digital transformation across aviation, retail and technology, Neeraj Manoria has built platforms including BLR Pulse, BLR Rewards and BLR Pay, and pioneered innovations such as omnichannel commerce, QR-based ordering and real-time personalisation. His vision is to turn airports into intelligent, connected destinations through scalable digital platforms.
A recognised expert in disruption management and strategic partnerships, Viktoriya Soubra brings nearly 20 years’ experience in travel and airline services to her current role at iCoupon, where she leads the global growth of intelligent vouchering solutions for airlines, airports and retailers. She previously held leadership roles at Travelliance.
Delegates are encouraged to register via the dedicated website.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source for India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, a key addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
FAB 2026 is set for another standout edition with more industry executives joining the programme
INDIA. More high-profile industry executives have joined the programme for the 2026 Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards, reinforcing the event’s industry-leading line-up for Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
The latest additions to the programme include Voiceback Analytics Founder Manishi Sanwal, and CEO & Managing Director Shubhra Misra; Accenture Managing Director Nishith Pathak; India Retails & Hospitality CEO Naresh Sharma; Coca-Cola India & Southwest Asia Vice President, Customer Development Abhishek Gupta; and Auran Founder & Principal Alex Avery.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report since 2011, FAB is hosted this year by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
Four of the speakers will share industry perspective on the ‘Fresh by Tech: Would You Let AI Run Your Kitchen and F&B Operations?’ panel discussion.
Shubhra Misra: Shaping the future of AI and analytics in travel retail
Among them is Shubhra Misra, who leads Voiceback Analytics, a Microsoft Solutions Partner for Data & AI focused on travel retail.
The company offers AI-powered analytics for pricing, sales and merchandising, deployed across airports and duty-free operators in India and the Middle East. Built on Azure and a Power BI Showcase Partner, the firm draws on Misra’s quantitative research background at ORG-MARG, Blackstone MR and Tata Global Beverages.
An MBA from IIM Lucknow, she is a frequent voice on AI and data strategy at industry events.
Manishi Sanwal will take to the stage to steer discussions on the evolving role of AI in kitchens and F&B operations
Misra will be joined by fellow Voiceback Analytics leader and Founder Manishi Sanwal.
A travel retail professional and technology enthusiast, Sanwal founded Voiceback Analytics and grew it into a more than 50-member Microsoft-partnered Data & AI company.
His career includes senior leadership roles at LVMH, DFS Group, Flemingo and Adani Airports, where he developed expertise in brand-building, scaling retail operations and driving growth in emerging markets.
A chemical engineer from IIT BHU and MBA from IIM Ahmedabad, he combines operational precision with luxury branding expertise.
Nishith Pathak brings two decades of AI leadership experience to the conversation
Nishith Pathak heads AI for the Accenture Microsoft Business Group, bringing two decades of technology experience to the discussions.
He was India’s first AI MVP and has received the Microsoft AI MVP award eight times – the highest amount globally. He has also served as a Microsoft Regional Director for the past ten years, a distinction reserved for a select group of technology leaders worldwide.
Pathak has authored seven international technical books, including three recent AI titles published by Springer (US), and is a frequent industry speaker known for shaping enterprise-wide AI and innovation strategies for architects and engineering leaders at scale.
Naresh Sharma: Three decades of experience in shaping retail, aviation and hospitality across India and beyond
A seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience across retail, aviation, consumer products and alcohol, Naresh Sharma is also bringing depth to the conversation on AI and the future of F&B operations.
As CEO of India Retails & Hospitality (IRHPL), he has expanded the company’s retail portfolio with concept brands, such as Artport, Mishthaan, Toycraft, The Olfactive, Artport Accessories, Neo Travel, Lumière and Lamourde Choc.
IRHPL’s F&B division, Radiance Aero Hospitality, pioneered India’s first airport microbreweries, including Susegado at Goa Manohar International and Barley & Grapes at Hyderabad Rajiv Ghandi International. The business also partners with global brands, including KFC, Pizza Hut and Theobroma.
Prior to IRHPL, Sharma held senior roles at Landmark Retail, Reliance Retail, Mumbai Airport, Adani One Super App and United Spirits.
Abhishek Gupta: Commercial strategist and customer development leader
Abhishek Gupta will participate in the ‘Raising the Bar in Indian Airport Food & Beverage’ session.
He leads customer development and commercial strategy across Digital Commerce, Modern Trade, Food Services and Travel, with over 20 years at Coca-Cola India & Southwest Asia.
Gupta is also in charge of the region’s customer-development agenda, driving value growth and bolstering strategic partnerships across digital commerce, modern trade, food services, travel and government institutions.
Gupta has also held roles across channel development, revenue growth management and portfolio innovation at bottling partner Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages.
His earlier career includes experience with Hindustan Lever, Kodak India and Gitanjali Jewels.
Alex Avery will share his commercial strategy insights for airport F&B
Speaking at the ‘Trends, Opportunities and Challenges: Creating a Flightpath for Airport F&B’ session, Alex Avery brings over 20 years of global experience advising airports, investors, operators and brands on commercial performance.
Having worked at over 80 airports in more than 40 markets, he brings deep expertise in space planning, revenue forecasting, customer insight and brand development.
He has led strategic projects across major global airport assets, including Bangalore, Doha, Heathrow, JFK, Toronto Pearson and Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Delegates are encouraged to register via the dedicated website.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source for India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, a key addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
GrayMatter signs on as Silver Partner for FAB 2026 in Bengaluru
INDIA. Leading technology company GrayMatter has lent its support as Silver Partner for the upcoming Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards on 7-8 July in Bengaluru.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report since 2011, this year’s FAB will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
Founded in 2006, GrayMatter has established itself as a market leader in analytics, with a strong focus on enhancing the passenger experiences and boosting airport ancillary revenues through its technology products and consulting services.
GrayMatter CEO Vikas Gupta said, “Partnering with the Airport FAB + Hospitality Conference in its landmark 15th year – and in our home city of Bengaluru – is a proud moment for GrayMatter.
“Airport F&B is being reshaped by data, digital ordering and connected commerce, and our work with airports worldwide through StoreSense, Servy and Skateboard sits at the heart of that transformation.
“We look forward to collaborating with the global FAB community to unlock the next wave of non-aeronautical revenue and passenger experience.”
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
The highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners to be unveiled earlier during the conference.
Delegates are encouraged to register via the dedicated website.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source for India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, a key addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
FAB 2026 takes shape as a standout edition, with more industry leaders joining high-impact conference
INDIA. With less than a month to go, the Airport Food and Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards 2026 is shaping up to be another blockbuster edition, as top industry executives continue to join the powerhouse line-up ahead of the 7-8 July event in Bengaluru.
The latest confirmed speakers include Avolta CEO Northern, Central and Eastern Europe Walter Seib; Vienna Airport Senior Vice President Center Management Philipp Ahrens; Viklari Consulting Managing Director Jonathan Doughty; and Airport Dimensions COO Errol McGlothan.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report since 2011, FAB is hosted this year by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
Avolta CEO Walter Seib will provide a future-focused perspective on airport F&B transformation
Industry veteran Walter Seib will present ‘View from the Top: How the Sector Leader Assesses the Future of Airport F&B’, bringing decades of travel retail expertise to the discussion.
Seib currently leads Avolta’s Northern, Eastern and Central Europe region, playing a key role in advancing the company’s travel retail and F&B operations across multiple markets.
He assumed the role in 2023 following the Dufry-Autogrill merger, working closely with local and global teams to drive growth and operational excellence.
Seib previously served as CEO of HMSHost International, and earlier led Dutch restaurant chain La Place, building a long career in travel retail and foodservice leadership across Europe, Asia Pacific, India and the Middle East.
Born in Vienna, Seib began his career in hospitality management and has held senior roles across the HMSHost group since the 1990s.
Philipp Ahrens’ extensive experience at Vienna Airport brings real-world operational insight into the discussion on airport transformation and guest experience
Philipp Ahrens and Jonathan Doughty will take the stage with a session titled ‘Dreaming Together at Vienna Airport: Delivering a New Guest Experience’.
Ahrens has been in his current role at Vienna Airport since 2021, responsible for around 100 retail, F&B and services units across the airport. He brings 30 years of experience in the airport sector, including senior roles at Munich Airport and ACI Europe, with international experience across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
He holds a Bachelor of European Law and an Aviation MBA, and is also a guest lecturer at Danube University in Krems. Since 2022, he has served as Chairman of the ACI Europe Commercial Forum.
Jonathan Doughty brings a deeply experienced perspective to the conference discussion on the future of Vienna Airport
Doughty is a veteran foodservice consultant with nearly 50 years of industry experience, currently working as an independent consultant and supporting Vienna Airport’s Southern Extension development through to 2027.
He also continues to work with ECE as Global Head of Foodservice on a consulting basis.
Over his career, he has held senior roles with companies including Imperial Inns and Taverns, Trusthouse Forte, Whitbread, Mars, Masterfoods and Marriott, before founding Coverpoint in 1993, a consultancy that advised more than 250 clients across 50 countries.
He has also worked with ECE and remains active in airport and transit F&B advisory projects globally.
Errol McGlothan joins other hospitality leaders to offer a glimpse into the future of airport hospitality
Errol McGlothan brings his hospitality expertise to the panel ‘Turning Passengers into Guests: Where Next for Airport Hospitality?’
McGlothan manages global operations across Airport Dimensions’ airport lounge, hospitality and traveller experience portfolio, working with international teams and partners to deliver customer-focused airport solutions.
He brings more than 20 years of experience in business transformation and operational leadership, with previous roles at NatWest, MyTravel, Orange and Digicel. At Collinson, he played a key role in the expansion of Priority Pass, helping establish it as the world’s leading airport experiences programme.
Delegates are encouraged to register via the dedicated website.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source for India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, a key addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
FAB finalists: Excellence across design, lounges, sense of place, digital and Airport F&B Offer of the Year
INDIA. With anticipation mounting for the 2026 Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards, The Moodie Davitt Report is delighted to announce the fourth and final tranche of finalists from select award categories, less than a month ahead of the blockbuster Bengaluru event taking place on 7-8 July.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report since 2011, FAB is hosted this year by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
This year’s awards programme features 20 categories (plus special Judges’ Awards) and has attracted 409 entries from across the airport hospitality and travel dining sectors.
In a key change from previous years, besides the overall winner in each category (and regional winners where appropriate in select categories), short-listed candidates (the finalists) all receive Gold Awards.
From the balance of entries, those most deserving of recognition but which fall short of making the finalists’ line-up receive Silver Awards.
Today we continue the roll-out of finalists, with Gold and Silver Awards announced across the categories below.
Note: Due to the unprecedented number and qualitiy of entries, and the closeness of the voting several categories justifiably boast a large number of Gold Awards (and Finalists).
Airport Food & Beverage Best New Digital Innovation Gold Awards (and Finalists)
ALBAIK Food Systems Co – Abha International Airport, Saudi Arabia
Allresto x nrtureAI by tRetail Labs – Allresto Flughafen München Hotel und Gaststätten, Munich Airport, Germany
Allresto x sell&pick – Allresto Flughafen München Hotel und Gaststätten, Munich Airport, Germany
Avolta Next-Generation QR Code Platform – Avolta, multiple airports
BigChefs Restaurant (Robot ‘Big‑C’) – Avolta, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, Türkiye
Boost – Lagardère Travel Retail, Dubai International Airport, UAE
iCoupon – Multiple airports
Your Voice, Your O’Hare – Chicago O’Hare International Airport, USA
Pudong T1 Commercial Area – Avolta, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, China
Voiceback Analytics – Multiple airports, India
Airport Food & Beverage Best New Digital Innovation Silver Awards
Street Burger – Travel Food Services, Indira Gandhi International Airport, India
Treva – TAV Operation Services, multiple airports
Airport Food & Beverage Offer Best Representing Sense of Place Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Note: This category drew a record number of entries, the highest in this year’s FAB Awards, many of outstanding quality. The closeness of the voting several categories justifiably boast a large number of Gold Awards (and Finalists).
1933 Lounge and HC Tavern – SSP America, Indianapolis International Airport, USA
Cafe Bateel – SSP Eastern Europe and Middle East, King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
DEN Concourse Marketplace – Mission Yogurt, Denver International Airport, USA
Ellison Field Taphouse Kitchen & Bar – SSP Canada, Kelowna International Airport, Canada
Good Day Bar and Café – Wellington International Airport, New Zealand
Hung’s Delicacies – SSP Asia Pacific, Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong SAR, China
Indian Brewery Company – TRGC, Birmingham Airport, UK
Jomfruin – SSP Iceland, Keflavik Airport, Iceland
Kardea Brown’s – Areas, Charleston International Airport, USA
Arthur Guinness Bar – KSG Catering, Dublin Airport, Ireland
Magpie + Bar New Helvetia – Avolta, Sacramento International Airport, USA
Maison Yellow – SSP France, Marseille Provence Airport, France
Novecientos Grados – Areas, San Diego Airport, USA
Perusuyo Mercado Peruano – Seinauer & Cia (Concept), Inversiones Fisa (Operator), Jorge Chávez International Airport, Peru
Sawa – Lagardère Travel Retail, Dubai International Airport Terminal 1, UAE
Sibarium – Areas, multiple airports
Tacos Chiwas – SSP America, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, USA
Taste of Anatolia – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
The Chocolate Shack By Dominique Persoone – Avolta, Brussels Airport, Belgium
The Rameshwaram Café – Represented By RMV Sahan, Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, India
W Premium Lounge Belém Internacional – W Premium Group, Aeroporto Internacional de Belém, Júlio Cezar Ribeiro (Val-de-Cans), Brazil
Airport Food & Beverage Offer Best Representing Sense of Place Silver Awards
By Avolta in collaboration with Altavia Travel Retail – Avolta, King Khalid International Airport, Saudi Arabia
Capital One Lounge – Capital One, John F. Kennedy International Airport, USA
Dilli Streat – Travel Food Services, Indira Gandhi International Airport, India
Farzi Café – Avolta, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, India
Flavours in Transit – Plaza Premium Group, multiple airports
Fuego – Areas, Tijuana International Airport, Mexico
Gotham Speakeasy – SSP America, John F. Kennedy International Airport Terminal 4, USA
Harry Caray’s Shortstop – NorthAmerican Concessions, Chicago Midway International Airport, USA
Kaffet Helsinki – SSP Finland, Helsinki Airport, Finland
Mr. Beef – SSP America, Chicago Midway International Airport, USA
Qinwan – Emirates Leisure Retail, Dubai International Airport, UAE
Tap + Brew – SSP UK & Ireland, Leeds Bradford Airport, UK
The Food Hall at LaGuardia Terminal C – OTG Management, LaGuardia Airport, USA
The Leagues – OHM Concession Group, Kansas City International Airport, USA
The Reserve – SSP UK&I, Dublin Airport, Ireland
Wander by Nicole Gomes – SSP Canada, Calgary International Airport, Canada
Wild Olive – TRGC, Heathrow Airport Terminal 4, UK
Airport Restaurant Design of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
1933 Lounge and HC Tavern – SSP America, Indianapolis International Airport, USA
Copper Bar & Kitchen – Retail Services, Jorge Chávez International Airport, Peru
Hello Mercato – Travel Food Services, Indira Gandhi International Airport, India
Icebergs Bar & Kitchen – SSP Asia Pacific, Sydney Domestic Airport, Australia
Novecientos Grados – Areas, USA
Sammy Hagar’s Beach Bar & Grill – Avolta, Charlotte Douglas International Airport, USA
Sherefe – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Taste of Anatolia – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
The Wanderer – Avolta, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, Netherlands
Tigerstaden – SSP Norway, Oslo Airport, Norway
Værbitt – SSP Norway, Bergen Airport, Norway
Vista Corona – Avolta, São Paulo/Congonhas Airport, Brazil
Airport Restaurant Design of the Year Silver Awards
4 FOOD Street Kitchen – Allresto Flughafen München Hotel und Gaststätten GmbH, Munich Airport, Germany
Chili’s – ASI-Cowboys Joint Venture, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, USA
Haven – SSP Norway, Trondheim Airport, Norway
The Irish House – GMR Hospitality, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, India
TRIO @ PSP – Paradies Lagardère, Palm Springs International Airport, USA
Van Wyck Bar & Bistro – SSP/JFKIAT, John F. Kennedy International Airport Terminal 4, USA
Vista Corona – Areas, Guadalajara International Airport, Mexico
Airport Lounge Food & Beverage Offer of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Capital One Landing – Capital One, LaGuardia Airport, USA
CATRION Lounge – CATRION Catering Holding Co., King Khalid International Airport, Saudi Arabia
Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club – JPMorganChase, Harry Reid International Airport, USA
Clubrooms – No1 Lounges, Heathrow Airport Terminal 3, UK
aether – The Private Terminal – CAVU, Manchester Airport, UK
Encalm Xenia – Encalm Hospitality, Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport, India
Plaza Premium First – Plaza Premium Group, Vancouver International Airport, Canada
Sky The Lounge – Before Boarding, Aeropuerto Internacional Las Américas, República Dominicana
The View Lounge – Brussels Airport, Belgium
Airport Lounge of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
080 Domestic Lounge – Travel Food Services, Kempegowda International Airport Terminal 1, India
AMBAAR Club – AMBAAR, Aeroporto de Congonhas, Brazil
Capital One Lounge – Capital One, New York John F. Kennedy International Airport, USA
CATRION Lounge – CATRION Catering Holding Co., King Khalid International Airport, Saudi Arabia
Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club – JPMorganChase, Harry Reid International Airport, USA
Encalm Privé – Encalm Hospitality, Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, India
Escape Lounge – CAVU, Kansas City Airport, USA
Extime VIP Lounge – TAV Operation Services, Almaty International Airport, Kazakhstan
FTA Exclusive Premium Lounge – Fraport TAV, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Kyra Lounge – SSP Asia Pacific, Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong SAR, China
Plaza Premium First – Plaza Premium Group, Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong SAR, China
Primeclass Lounge – TAV Operation Services, Muscat International Airport, Oman
The View Lounge – Brussels Airport, Belgium
W Premium Lounge – W Premium Group, Aeroporto Internacional de Belém, Val-de-Cans/Júlio Cezar Ribeiro International Airport, Brazil
Airport Lounge of the Year Silver Awards
Aena Premium Lounge Experience – Aena, Aeropuerto Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas, Spain
Plaza Premium Group – Rome Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport, Italy
Sky The Lounge – Before Boarding, Aeropuerto Internacional Las Américas, República Dominicana
The Club – Airport Dimensions, San Francisco International Airport, USA
Airport Food & Beverage Offer of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Austin Airport – Areas, USA
Antalya Airport – BFA, Türkiye
Changi Airport – Changi Airport Group, Singapore
Chicago Midway International Airport – Midway Partnership, USA
Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport – Travel Food Services, India
Denver International Airport – Mission Yogurt, USA
Dublin Airport – daa, Ireland
Hamad International Airport – Qatar Duty Free, Qatar
Heathrow Airport – UK
Liverpool John Lennon Airport – SSP UK & Ireland, UK
Previously announced Gold and Silver Awards
FAB 2026 finalists: FAB-ulous casual dining, coffee & tea and new lounges in the Awards spotlight
Airport Casual-Dining Restaurant of the Year – Airport <20M passengers
Airport Casual-Dining Restaurant of the Year – Airport ≥20M passengers
Airport Coffee or Tea Shop of the Year
Airport Lounge Opening of the Year
Excitement builds as finalists’ roll-out continues for FAB Awards 2026 in BengaluruAirport Food & Beverage Marketing Campaign
Airport Food & Beverage Opening of the Year
Airport Bar or Pub of the Year – Airport <20M passengers
Airport Bar or Pub of the Year – Airport ≥20M passengers
FAB Airport Food to Go Offer of the Year
Airport Instagrammable Location of the Year
FAB 2026 heats up as first finalists revealed for blockbuster Bengaluru edition
Airport Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiative of the Year
FAB Airport Health and Wellness-Centred Offer of the Year
Airport Food Hall of the Year
Airport Sustainability & Environmental Initiative of the Year
FAB JUDGES 2026
FAB Founder, The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie (left) leads a team of respected figures from across the F&B and hospitality sector, including renowned industry veteran and consultant Nick Inkster (centre) and Concession Planning International Managing Partner Susan Gray
They are joined by a quality quartet comprising (top, from left) Hunter Palmer – Global Retail Solutions Partner Nick Goddard-Palmer; Jonathan Doughty, Managing Director at Viklari Consulting Ltd and Director LSP on behalf of ECE Marketplaces; Constellar Advisory Principal Grant Fleming; and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Vice-President Concessions Zenola Campbell
A diverse line-up of distinguished speakers has already been announced, with more to be revealed in the coming days. Delegates are encouraged to register via the dedicated website.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source for India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, a key addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
FAB 2026 finalists: FAB-ulous casual dining, coffee & tea and new lounges in the Awards spotlight
INDIA. With the 2026 Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards fast approaching, The Moodie Davitt Report is delighted to unveil the second round of finalists from selected award categories ahead of the event to be held in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
We will announce the final tranche of awards tomorrow.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report since 2011, FAB is hosted this year by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
This year’s awards programme features 20 categories and has attracted almost 409 entries from across the airport hospitality and travel dining sectors.
In a key change from previous years, besides the overall winner in each category (and regional winners where appropriate), short-listed candidates (the finalists) will all receive Gold Awards. Those deserving of recognition but which fall short of making the finalists’ line-up will receive Silver Awards.
Today we continue the roll-out of finalists, with Gold and Silver Awards announced across the categories below.
Note: Due to the unprecedented number and qualitiy of entries, several categories justifiably boast a large number of Gold Awards (and Finalists).
Airport Casual-Dining Restaurant of the Year – Airport <20M passengers Gold Awards (and Finalists)
1933 Lounge and HC Tavern – SSP America, Indianapolis International Airport, USA
Barú Bar & Grill – GCG, José María Córdova International Airport, Colombia
Biggie Smalls – SSP Asia Pacific, Melbourne Airport, Australia
Gordon Ramsay Plane Food Market – Gordon Ramsay Restaurants Global, London Heathrow Airport Terminal 5, UK
Gully Kitchen – Semolina Kitchens, Navi Mumbai International Airport, India
Malabar Express – Travel Food Services, Cochin International Airport, India
Puerto Tortas. Tacos. Cantina. By Chef Chad White – SSP America, Spokane International Airport, USA
Tap + Brew Leeds Bradford Airport – SSP UK & Ireland, Leeds Bradford Airport, UK
Airport Casual-Dining Restaurant – Airport <20M passengers Silver Awards
Brown & Loe – OHM Concession Group, Kansas City International Airport, USA
Mattison’s City Grille – Paradies Lagardère, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, USA
Airport Casual-Dining Restaurant of the Year – Airport ≥20M passengers Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Big Chefs Restaurant – Avolta, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, Türkiye
Callao – Lagardère Travel Retail, Lima Jorge Chávez International Airport, Peru
Comptoir – Areas, Milan Malpensa Airport, Italy
Eataly – Avolta, New York John F. Kennedy International Airport, USA
ENZO – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Giraffe – TRGC, London Heathrow Airport Terminal 5, UK
Jacob’s Pickles – SSP America, New York John F. Kennedy International Airport Terminal 5, USA
Jamie Oliver Kitchen – SSP Eastern Europe and Middle East, Jeddah King Abdulaziz International Airport, Saudi Arabia
Jones the Grocer – Semolina Kitchens, Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, India
La Bonbonniere – Retail Services, Lima Jorge Chávez International Airport, Peru
Nando’s – Travel Food Services, Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport, India
Novecientos Grados – Areas, San Diego International Airport, USA
Sherefe – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Street Burger by Gordon Ramsay – Travel Food Services, Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport, India
Todd English – Lagardère Travel Retail, Zayed International Airport, UAE
Vista Corona – Avolta, São Paulo/Congonhas Airport, Brazil
Airport Casual-Dining Restaurant – Airport ≥20M passengers Silver Awards
Asian Street Kitchen – Emirates Leisure Retail, Changi Airport, Singapore
Chili’s – ASI-Cowboys Joint Venture, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, USA
ChoLon Modern Asian – Mission Yogurt, Denver International Airport, USA
Fuego – Areas, Tijuana International Airport, Mexico
Meat District – Lagardère Travel Retail, Zayed International Airport, UAE
Melt Shop – OTG Management, New York John F. Kennedy International Airport, USA
Pizza Express – SSP Eastern Europe and Middle East, Riyadh King Khalid International Airport, Saudi Arabia
Romer’s Fresh Kitchen & Bar – SSP Canada, Vancouver International Airport, Canada
San Marco – KSG Catering, Dublin Airport, Ireland
Street Pizza – Semolina Kitchens, Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, India
Tocabe – Mission Yogurt, Denver International Airport, USA
Ulavacharu – GMR Hospitality, Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, India
Airport Coffee or Tea Shop of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
black & white – Multiple airports, Saudi Arabia
Black Sheep Coffee –Edinburgh Airport, UK
Brooklyn Tea & Market – Avolta, New York John F. Kennedy International Airport, USA
Cakes&Bakes – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf + Bakery – Java Star, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, USA
Costa Coffee – Avolta, Palma de Mallorca Airport, Spain
Costa Coffee – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Costa Coffee – London Heathrow Airport Terminal 4, UK
Equator Coffees – Paradies Lagardère, San Francisco International Airport, USA
Flat White – Qatar Duty Free, Hamad International Airport, Qatar
Form and Function Coffee – Areas, Boise Airport, USA
Kaffet Helsinki – SSP Finland, Helsinki Airport, Finland
KopiKakis by Kopifellas – Emirates Leisure Retail, Changi Airport, Singapore
Motta – Avolta, Milan Bergamo Orio al Serio International Airport, Italy
Pret A Manger – SSP Eastern Europe and Middle East, Riyadh King Khalid International Airport, Saudi Arabia
Project Chaiwala – Lagardère Travel Retail, Dubai International Airport, UAE
Puku Puku – Paradies Lagardère, Lima Jorge Chávez International Airport, Peru
Revolver – SSP Asia Pacific, I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, Indonesia
Star Café – Avolta, Da Nang International Airport, Vietnam
Toby’s Estate – PT Bandara Internasional Batam, Hang Nadim International Airport, Indonesia
Urth Caffé – Avolta, Riyadh King Khalid International Airport, Saudi Arabia
Airport Coffee or Tea Shop of the Year Silver Awards
City Market Coffee Roasters – OHM Concession Group, Kansas City International Airport, USA
Costa Coffee – Avolta, Leonardo da Vinci Rome Fiumicino Airport, Italy
Costa Coffee Skytrain – Emirates Leisure Retail, Dubai International Airport, UAE
Kabod Coffee – Denver International Airport, USA
Roasted Notes – KSG Catering, Dublin Airport, Ireland
Saddle – Emirates Leisure Retail, Dubai International Airport, UAE
Starbucks – OTG Management, Denver International Airport, USA
Upper Crust – SSP Lithuania, Vilnius Airport, Lithuania
Airport Lounge Opening of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Ambaar – Ambaar, Aeroporto de Congonhas, Brazil
Capital One Lounge – Capital One, New York John F. Kennedy International Airport, USA
Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club – JPMorganChase, Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport, USA
Encalm Xenia – Encalm Hospitality, Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport, India
Escape Lounge – CAVU, Edinburgh Airport, UK
Escape Lounge – CAVU, Portland Airport, USA
Plaza Premium First – Plaza Premium Group, Leonardo da Vinci-Rome Fiumicino Airport, Italy
Riyadh Air – Riyadh King Khalid International Airport, Saudi Arabia
Sofia Lounge Opening – TAV Operation Services, Bulgaria
The Maharaja Lounge – Air India, multiple airports
The View Lounge – Brussels Airport, Belgium
W Premium Lounge – W Premium Group, Aeroporto Internacional Afonso Pena – Curitiba – PR, Brazil
Airport Lounge Opening of the Year Silver Awards
Escape Lounge – CAVU, Brisbane Airport, Australia
Escape Lounge – CAVU, Bristol Airport, UK
No1 Lounge – Jersey Airport, USA
Plaza Premium Lounge – Premium Port Dallas Fort Worth LLC, DFW International Airport, USA
The Club – Airport Dimensions, Lima Jorge Chávez International Airport, Peru
FAB JUDGES 2026
FAB Founder, The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie (left) leads a team of respected figures from across the F&B and hospitality sector, including renowned industry veteran and consultant Nick Inkster (centre) and Concession Planning International Managing Partner Susan Gray
They are joined by a quality quartet comprising (top, from left) Hunter Palmer – Global Retail Solutions Partner Nick Goddard-Palmer; Jonathan Doughty, Managing Director at Viklari Consulting Ltd and Director LSP on behalf of ECE Marketplaces; Constellar Advisory Principal Grant Fleming; and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Vice-President Concessions Zenola Campbell
A diverse line-up of distinguished speakers has already been announced, with more to be revealed in the coming days. Delegates are encouraged to register via the dedicated website.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source for India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, a key addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
Excitement builds as finalists’ roll-out continues for FAB Awards 2026 in Bengaluru
INDIA. With the 2026 Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards fast approaching, The Moodie Davitt Report is delighted to unveil the second round of finalists from selected award categories ahead of the event to be held in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
All other finalists will be revealed next week.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report since 2011, FAB is hosted this year by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
This year’s awards programme features 20 categories and has attracted almost 409 entries from across the airport hospitality and travel dining sectors.
In a key change from previous years, besides the overall winner in each category (and regional winners where appropriate), short-listed candidates (the finalists) will all receive Gold Awards. Those deserving of recognition but which fall short of making the finalists’ line-up will receive Silver Awards.
FAB JUDGES 2026
FAB Founder, The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie (left) leads a team of respected figures from across the F&B and hospitality sector, including renowned industry veteran and consultant Nick Inkster (centre) and Concession Planning International Managing Partner Susan Gray
They are joined by a quality quartet comprising (top, from left) Hunter Palmer – Global Retail Solutions Partner Nick Goddard-Palmer; Jonathan Doughty, Managing Director at Viklari Consulting Ltd and Director LSP on behalf of ECE Marketplaces; Constellar Advisory Principal Grant Fleming; and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Vice-President Concessions Zenola Campbell
Today we continue the roll-out of finalists, with Gold and Silver Awards announced across the categories below.
Note: Due to the unprecedented number and qualitiy of entries, several categories justifiably boast a large number of Gold Awards (and Finalists).
Airport Food & Beverage Marketing Campaign of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
‘Holiday Mode Activated’ – Manchester Airport, UK
#letimzPrahy – Lagardère Travel Retail, Prague Václav Havel Airport, Czech Republic
5 Min or Free – GMR Hospitality, multiple airports, India
Earth Month Campaign with Brown Family Vineyards – Avolta, multiple airports
Durga Puja Festival – Travel Food Services, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, India
Frozen Wonders – Allresto Flughafen München Hotel und Gaststätten, Munich Airport, Germany
Greater Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival – Vancouver Airport Authority, Vancouver International Airport, Canada
Lancôme Café de La Rose – Qatar Duty Free, Hamad International Airport, Qatar
Lucky Day at MDW – Midway Partnership, Chicago Midway International Airport, USA
Magic of Joy – It’s the season to savor – Avolta, multiple airports
Masterclass Mixin’ it up Monday – Travel Food Services, multiple airports
Share the Love – Mother’s Day – Vantage Group, Kansas City International Airport, USA
Street Food – Areas, multiple airports
Wellness – Areas, multiple airports
Airport Food & Beverage Marketing Campaign of the Year Silver Awards
Epic Holiday Giveaway – Avolta, multiple airports
InstaSips – OTG Management, multiple airports
TGI Fridays – Avolta, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, Türkiye
Airport Food & Beverage Opening of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
4 FOOD Street Kitchen – Allresto Flughafen München Hotel und Gaststätten, Munich Airport, Germany
BFA – BTA & Fraport, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
DEN Concourse Marketplace – Maria Empanada, Uncle, The Bindery – Mission Yogurt, Denver International Airport, USA
Great Northern Market – Airport Retail Enterprises (UK), Manchester Airport, UK
Hello Mercato – Travel Food Services, Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport, India
Indian Brewery Company – TRGC, Birmingham Airport, UK
La Bonbonniere – Retail Services, Lima Jorge Chávez International Airport, Peru
Lancôme Café de La Rose – Qatar Duty Free, Hamad International Airport, Qatar
Mr. Beef – SSP America, Chicago Midway International Airport, USA
Novecientos Grados – Areas, San Diego Airport, USA
Gate Gardens – Fraport Twin Star Airport Management AD, Varna Airport and Burgas Airport, Bulgaria
Roots – Lagardère Travel Retail, Dubai International Airport Terminal 3, UAE
Sherefe – BFA (BTA & Fraport joint venture), Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Taste of Anatolia – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Toby’s Estate – PT Bandara Internasional Batam, Hang Nadim International Airport, Indonesia
Wander Kitchen & Bar by Chef Nicole Gomes – SSP Canada, Calgary International Airport, Canada
White Spot – ECG Ventures II, Vancouver International Airport, Canada
Airport Food & Beverage Opening of the Year Silver Awards
Eataly – Avolta, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, Netherlands
Fazer Café – SSP Finland, Helsinki Airport, Finland
Bistro Vibes – GCG, V.C. Bird International Airport, Antigua & Barbuda
Saddle – Emirates Leisure Retail, Dubai International Airport, UAE
Sammy Hagar’s Beach Bar & Grill – Avolta, Charlotte Douglas International Airport, USA
Street Pizza – Semolina Kitchens, Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, India
Vista Corona – Avolta, São Paulo/Congonhas Airport, Brazil
Airport Bar or Pub of the Year – Airport <20M passengers Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Bardenay at BOI – Areas, Boise Airport, USA
Beach Bar – Lagardère Travel Retail, Burgas International Airport, Bulgaria
Ellison Field Taphouse Kitchen & Bar – SSP Canada, Kelowna International Airport, Canada
Good Day Bar and Café – Wellington International Airport, New Zealand
Les Brassés – SSP France, Nantes Atlantique Airport, France
Mi Casa Cantina – SSP Canada, Calgary International Airport, Canada
The Oak Barrel – SSP Finland, Helsinki Airport, Finland
The Sir Walter Scott – J D Wetherspoon, Edinburgh Airport, UK
The Terrace – Cafe Bar – SSP Eastern Europe and Middle East, Bahrain International Airport, Bahrain
Airport Bar or Pub of the Year – Airport <20M passengers Silver Awards
Bar 11 – SSP UK & Ireland, Newcastle Airport, UK
Bar Festiv – Avolta, Brussels Airport, Belgium
Bengals Bar & Kitchen – SSP America, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, USA
Grapes & Grains – OHM Concession Group, Kansas City International Airport, USA
Maison Yellow – SSP France, Marseille Provence Airport, France
Okanagan Vintners Exchange Gastrobar – SSP Canada, Kelowna International Airport, Canada
Airport Bar or Pub of the Year – Airport ≥20M passengers Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Blinded Tiger – Avolta, John F. Kennedy International Airport, USA
Brewmark – BFA (BTA & Fraport joint venture), Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Copper Bar & Kitchen – Retail Service, Lima Jorge Chávez International Airport, Peru
Heineken – Avolta, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, Netherlands
Intervals – Plaza Premium Group, Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong SAR, China
Paulaner Bierhaus – Allresto Flughafen München Hotel und Gaststätten, Munich Airport, Germany
Romer’s Fresh Kitchen & Bar – SSP Canada, Vancouver International Airport, Canada
Ryan’s – Ryan’s Pub, Dublin Airport, Ireland
Sherefe – BFA (BTA & Fraport joint venture), Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Sibarium – Areas, multiple airports
The Irish House – Travel Food Services, Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport, India
Tiger Bar & Restaurant – SSP Asia Pacific, Changi Airport, Singapore
Williams & Graham – Mission Yogurt, Denver International Airport, USA
Airport Bar or Pub of the Year – Airport ≥20M passengers Silver Awards
Gotham Speakeasy – SSP America, John F. Kennedy International Airport Terminal 4, USA
SIP Wine & Beer – Areas, San Diego International Airport, USA
Stella Artois Bar – Areas, Mexico City International Airport, Mexico
The Bridgewater Exchange – TRGC, Manchester Airport Terminal 2, UK
The Curator – TRGC, Heathrow Airport Terminal 3, UK
The Garden Terrace – SSP UK & Ireland, Dublin Airport, Ireland
The Reserve – SSP UK & Ireland, Dublin Airport, Ireland
Vino Volo & Harmonie Public Market – Paradies Lagardère, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, USA
FAB Airport Food to Go Offer of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Bistro Vibes – GCG, José María Córdova International Airport, Colombia
Breznsalzer – Allresto Flughafen München Hotel und Gaststätten, Munich Airport, Germany
Chili’s – ASI-Cowboys Joint Venture, DFW International Airport, USA
Costa Coffee – Avolta, Palma de Mallorca Airport, Spain
Finch on the Fly – Olive & Finch, Denver International Airport, USA
Kumo Kumo – Avolta, Shanghai Pudong Airport, China
La Lucha – Lagardère Travel Retail, Lima Jorge Chávez International Airport, Peru
M&S Food at Bristol Airport – SSP UK & Ireland, Bristol Airport, UK
Marche Food Lovers’ Place – Lagardère Travel Retail, Changi Airport Terminal 1, Singapore
Motta – Avolta, Milan Bergamo Orio al Serio International Airport, Italy
Needstop – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Panini Internazionale – SSP Sweden, Stockholm Arlanda Airport, Sweden
Pret A Manager – Emirates Leisure Retail, Dubai International Airport, UAE
Pret A Manger – Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong SAR, China
Relay – Lagardère Travel Retail, multiple airports
Roots – Lagardère Travel Retail, Dubai International Airport Terminal 3, UAE
Sunset Loop Market – OTG Management, Denver International Airport, USA
YO! to go – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Airport ‘Food to Go’ Offer of the Year Silver Awards
Bar Mangia – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Eat Well. Travel Further. – Avolta, Chicago O’Hare International Airport, USA
Giraffe Grab & Go – Emirates Leisure Retail, Dubai International Airport, UAE
Guy’s Deli & Pub – Miller Marketing & Distribution, Kansas City International Airport, USA
Point – SSP Asia Pacific, Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand
Sweet Delights – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Airport Instagrammable Location of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
aether – The Private Terminal – CAVU, Manchester Airport, UK
Bengals Bar & Kitchen – SSP America, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, USA
Capital One Landing – Capital One, New York LaGuardia Airport, USA
Comptoir – Areas, Milan Malpensa Airport, Italy
Dilli Streat – Travel Food Services, Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport, India
Duff’s Deli and Market – Areas, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, USA
Good Day Bar and Café – Wellington International Airport, New Zealand
Lancôme Café de la Rose – Qatar Duty Free, Hamad International Airport, Qatar
Sky The Lounge – Before Boarding, Aeropuerto Internacional Las Américas, República Dominicana
Street Burger by Gordon Ramsay – Travel Food Services, Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport, India
The Irish House – GMR Hospitality, Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, India
Vista Corona – Avolta, São Paulo/Congonhas Airport, Brazil
Voodoo Doughnut – Denver International Airport, USA
Airport Instagrammable Location of the Year Silver Awards
One Retail – Compass Group, Glasgow Airport, UK
TGI Fridays (Valentine’s activation) – Avolta, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, Türkiye
Treefort Outpost – Areas, Boise Airport, USA
W Premium Lounge Recife Frevo – W Premium Group, Aeroporto Internacional do Recife/Guararapes – Gilberto Freyre, Brazil
PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED GOLD AWARDS (AND FINALISTS) & SILVER AWARDS
Airport Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiative of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Belong At SSP – Select Service Partner UK & Ireland, multiple airports
Elevating Every Voice Building a Culture of Belonging – SSP Eastern Europe and Middle East – Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Engage Communities Project – Avolta, Brussels Airport, Belgium
Fly.Learn.Grow – SSP Asia Pacific, multiple airports
Lagardère Travel Retail UAE – Dubai International Airport and Zayed International Airport, UAE
The Rameshwaram Café – Represented By RMV Sahan, Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, India
FAB Airport Health and Wellness-Centred Offer of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Eat Well. Travel Further. – Avolta, Chicago O’Hare International Airport, USA
Bottega Prosecco Bar & Craft Beer – Avolta, Dubai International Airport, UAE
Top Juice – multiple airports
Smoothie King – OdehMickens DFW Concessions, DFW International Airport, USA
Airport Food Hall of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
4 FOOD Street Kitchen – Allresto Flughafen München Hotel und Gaststätten GmbH, Munich Airport, Germany
Adalstræti – SSP Iceland, Keflavik Airport, Iceland
Areas Italy – Areas, Milan Malpensa Airport, Italy
Daily Dubai Terminal 3 Concourse B – Lagardère Travel Retail, Dubai International Airport, UAE
Hello Mercato – Travel Food Services, Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, India
InfinEat – Lagardère Travel Retail, Varna International Airport, Bulgaria
Marche – Lagardère Travel Retail, Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
SF EATS Food Hall – Paradies Lagardère, San Francisco International Airport, USA
Taste of Anatolia – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Airport Food Hall of the Year Silver Awards
Denver Street Eats – Denver International Airport, USA
Gordon Ramsay Plane Food Market – Gordon Ramsay Restaurants Global, Heathrow Airport, UK
Oasis Food Hall – Avolta, King Khalid International Airport, Saudi Arabia
Urban Food Court – Avolta, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Malaysia
Airport Sustainability & Environmental Initiative of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Areas and Phenix – Areas, multiple airports
Avolta Bangalore Airport – Avolta, Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, India
Boost recycling practices – Avolta, Brussels Airport, Belgium
BTA – multiple airports
BTA Circular Kitchen – BTA, multiple airports
Green Restaurant Association x OTG – OTG Management, multiple airports
Kepler Club – multiple airports
Lagardère Travel Retail UAE – Dubai International Airport and Zayed International Airport, UAE
Redefining Sustainability in Airport F&B – Travel Food Services, multiple airports
SSP UK&Ireland – multiple airports
A diverse line-up of distinguished speakers has already been announced, with more to be revealed in the coming days. Delegates are encouraged to register via the dedicated website.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source for India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, a key addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
FAB 2026 attracts more influential industry leaders for Bengaluru powerhouse event
INDIA. The 2026 Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards is shaping up to be another powerhouse edition, with more influential executives joining the programme in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
Among the latest confirmed speakers are Brussels Airport Food & Beverage Manager Michiel Arnouts; Malaysia Airports Senior General Manager Commercial Services Hani Ezra Hussin; SSP America CEO George Mboya; Chef, Author and Storyteller Ranveer Brar; and tRetail Labs Founder & CEO Sushanta Das.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report since 2011, FAB is hosted this year by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
Brussels Airport Food & Beverage Manager Michiel Arnouts will bring Brussels Airport’s F&B strategy to the conference
Leading the discussion on ‘Talking Tenders: Redesigning Brussels Airport’s F&B Programme’ is Michiel Arnouts, whose career spans aviation, hospitality and customer experience, with expertise in commercial strategy, premium services and operational excellence.
In his role at Brussels Airport, he oversees the travel hub’s dining strategy and partnerships, focusing on innovative concepts that enhance passenger experience and strengthen a sense of place.
He previously developed JetBlue’s lounge strategy and first JFK lounge, alongside broader customer experience and premium hospitality initiatives.
Malaysia Airports Senior General Manager, Commercial Services Hani Ezra Hussin will share her strong commercial expertise during discussions
Hani Ezra Hussin is joining other industry leaders for the panel focused on ‘Creating World-Class Environments through Enhanced Design, Ambience and Service’.
Bringing more than 25 years of experience in retail, marketing and branding, Hussin has played a key role in strengthening Malaysia Airports’ position as one of Asia’s leading travel hubs.
She has spearheaded the airport’s commercial strategy and overseen more than 800 retail outlets across 39 airports nationwide, contributing significantly to sales growth and the development of Malaysia’s travel retail sector.
A highly regarded industry veteran, SSP America CEO George Mboya joins other industry peers in a panel to discuss market-specific and global trends
A global business leader with more than 30 years of experience, George Mboya joins the panel discussion ‘Global, Regional, Local’.
He leads SSP’s strategic direction and growth, overseeing operations across travel, hospitality, retail and foodservice.
Mboya has driven large-scale, multi-market performance across North America, with a focus on partnerships, operational excellence and long-term value creation.
A former CFO, he brings financial perspective and sharp commercial insight to his role as CEO.
He also has over 30 years of senior leadership experience at Compass Group and Sodexo across the USA and Canada, and is known for his strategic mindset, steady execution and ability to build resilient businesses.
Chef Ranveer Brar brings a high-profile presence to the FAB stage
Lending star power to the conference, Chef Ranveer Brar joins the panel ‘Airport Lounges as Cultural Gateways – Hyperlocal Cuisine, Micro-Food Systems & the Future of Responsible Hospitality’. An acclaimed Indian chef, restaurateur, author and storyteller, he is known for showcasing Indian culinary heritage to global audiences.
With best-selling books, a flagship restaurant Kashkan in the UAE, and a global digital following of over 20 million, Chef Brar blends tradition, innovation and cultural storytelling across food, media and hospitality.
A former Executive Chef and consultant to culinary ventures worldwide, he is also recognised for his work in film, television and cultural advocacy.
One of the youngest Executive Chefs of his time, he supports social initiatives and believes in food’s power to create meaningful change.
tRetail Labs Founder & CEO Sushanta Das brings a research-driven view on enhancing the traveller journey
Joining the discussion on ‘Airport F&B Manifesto 2035: A Movement to Redefine Airport Dining’ is Sushanta Das.
The topic focuses on the 2035 Travel Food & Beverage Manifesto – a phased, multi-year roadmap to advance plant-forward foodservice across the travel F&B sector and the broader visitor economy.
The initiative is a partnership between the Culinary Institute of America and tRetail Labs, formed to develop services and resources that accelerate healthy F&B options for travellers.
With over 20 years of global experience across aviation, hospitality, F&B and digital transformation, Das uses visitor intelligence, behavioural science and agentic AI to improve traveller experiences and translate insights into commercial and operational outcomes.
Delegates are encouraged to register via the dedicated website.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source for India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, a key addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
FAB 2026 builds further momentum with CAVU as Silver Partner for Bengaluru event
INDIA. CAVU has joined the industry-leading supporter line-up for the highly anticipated Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards, signing on as a Silver Partner for the Bengaluru event on 7-8 July.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report since 2011, this year’s FAB will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
CAVU, owned and managed by Manchester Airports Group, is a travel services business dedicated to transforming the airport experience and driving value for passengers and airport commercial partners. The company’s footprint extends to over 350 airports across more than 40 markets.
CAVU Chief Experiences Officer Tom Waldron said, “CAVU is proud to sponsor FAB, one of the leading global forums in the travel industry, bringing together the sector’s most influential voices.
“The event showcases and champions innovation and creativity across airport food & beverage. Demand is rising from passengers and airline partners for high-quality lounge experiences, alongside strong global growth potential in the common-use lounge segment.
“Expectations are also increasing, particularly around food & beverage choice, presentation and quality. Food remains a key driver of guest satisfaction.
“FAB provides a valuable platform to connect with peers, share insights and shape thinking on the future of airport hospitality. The CAVU team looks forward to contributing to these conversations.”
Taj Bangalore in Bengaluru is the venue for FAB 2026, offering extensive facilities for conferences and business engagement {Photo: Taj Bangalore}
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
The highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners to be unveiled earlier during the conference.
The diverse line-up of distinguished speakers has already been announced, with more to be revealed in the coming days.
Delegates are encouraged to register via the dedicated website.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source for India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, a key addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
The Culinary Institute of America and tRetail Labs deepen industry collaboration with FAB 2026 partnership
INDIA. The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) and research and intelligence firm tRetail Labs have jointly struck a Silver Partnership for the highly anticipated Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards, which takes place in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report since 2011, this year’s FAB will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
Announced in February, the partnership brings together CIA, an independent not-for-profit organisation known for its leadership in food, health, sustainability and culinary education, and tRetail Labs’ nrtureAI platform.
The collaboration was formed to jointly develop a suite of services and resources, starting with the 2035 Travel Food & Beverage Manifesto – a phased, multi-year roadmap to advance plant-forward foodservice across the travel F&B sector and the broader visitor economy.
Their collaboration also leans on CIA’s Menus of Change initiative, which over the past decade has sought to spark new insights and develop solutions for the culinary and foodservice sector in the USA, with a focus on healthy, sustainable menus.
They will also participate in an industry panel titled, ‘Airport F&B Manifesto 2035: A Movement to Redefine Airport Dining’. The discussion will focus on how airports, lounges and food & beverage operators are responding to evolving traveller expectations across health, sustainability, emotional wellbeing, convenience and experience design.
The session will coincide with the release of a new Industry White Paper, introducing the Travel F&B Fit (TFF) Diagnostic Lens, which helps airports better assess how effectively their F&B offerings respond to shifting traveller needs, from wellbeing and behaviour to commercial performance.
The Culinary Institute of America Vice President Robert Jones said, “The future of airport food & beverage will increasingly be shaped by how effectively the industry balances culinary quality, health, sustainability, operational realities and traveller expectations.
“Through our support of the FAB event, we are keen to contribute to meaningful industry dialogue and collaborative thinking around the future evolution of airport food & beverage experiences.”
tRetail Labs Founder & CEO Sushanta Das added, “Airport dining is entering its next era where food & beverage will no longer be viewed simply through concession categories or revenue per passenger, but as a critical part of traveller wellbeing, emotional experience, sustainability and airport identity.
“Together with the teams at CIA and tRetail Labs, including Professor (Dr) Thorsten Merkle, Mark Angela, Abby Fammartino and Jennifer Breckner, we aim to help shape a more thoughtful and evidence-based industry movement around what airport dining could become by 2035.”
Taj Bangalore in Bengaluru is the venue for FAB 2026, offering extensive facilities for conferences and business engagement {Photo: Taj Bangalore}
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
The highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners to be unveiled earlier during the conference.
The diverse line-up of distinguished speakers has already been announced, with more to be revealed in the coming days.
Delegates are encouraged to register via the dedicated website.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
FAB 2026 heats up as first finalists revealed for blockbuster Bengaluru edition
INDIA. With the 2026 Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards fast approaching, The Moodie Davitt Report is delighted to unveil the first finalists from selected award categories ahead of the event to be held in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
All other finalists will be revealed next week.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report since 2011, FAB is hosted this year by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
This year’s awards programme features 20 categories and has attracted almost 350 entries from across the airport hospitality and travel dining sectors.
In a key change from previous years, besides the overall winner in each category (and regional winners where appropriate), short-listed candidates (the finalists) will all receive Gold Awards. Those deserving of recognition but which fall short of making the finalists’ line-up will receive Silver Awards.
We start the initial finalist reveal with contenders across four award categories:
Airport Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiative of the Year: As workplaces become increasingly diverse and interconnected, and as equity and inclusion face growing political challenges in some markets, we believe it is more critical than ever to champion these values. This year’s finalists provide inspiring examples of meaningful action and strong commitment to social progress.
FAB Airport Health and Wellness-Centred Offer of the Year: Wellness-focused dining has become an increasingly important part of airport food & beverage, as demonstrated by this year’s strong line-up of entries.
Airport Food Hall of the Year: Food halls or courts have long been an integral component of airport F&B. But their ubiquitousness and necessary focus on a broad diversity of choice should not compromise excellence of offer, environment and service. This year’s finalists have been assessed on the overall strength of their offer, from quality and efficiency to value and customer experience.
Airport Sustainability & Environmental Initiative of the Year: This category highlights initiatives that have delivered meaningful progress at a critical time for the planet’s future and aviation’s environmental credentials. This award salutes companies that integrate far-reaching sustainability into their food & beverage and hospitality offerings, demonstrating proactive environmental stewardship across their initiatives.
Returning to the judging panel, FAB Founder, The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie (left) leads a team of respected figures from across the F&B and hospitality sector, including industry veteran and consultant Nick Inkster (centre) and Concession Planning International Managing Partner Susan Gray
They are joined by a quality quartet comprising (from left) Hunter Palmer – Global Retail Solutions Partner Nick Goddard-Palmer; Jonathan Doughty, Managing Director at Viklari Consulting Ltd and Director LSP on behalf of ECE Marketplaces; Constellar Advisory Principal Grant Fleming; and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Vice-President Concessions Zenola Campbell
Airport Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiative of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Belong At SSP – Select Service Partner UK & Ireland, multiple airports
Elevating Every Voice Building a Culture of Belonging – SSP Eastern Europe and Middle East – Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Engage Communities Project – Avolta, Brussels Airport, Belgium
Fly.Learn.Grow – SSP Asia Pacific, multiple airports
Lagardère Travel Retail UAE – Dubai International Airport and Zayed International Airport, UAE
The Rameshwaram Café – Represented By RMV Sahan, Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru
FAB Airport Health and Wellness-Centred Offer of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Eat Well. Travel Further. – Avolta, O’Hare International Airport, USA
Bottega Prosecco Bar & Craft Beer – Avolta, Dubai International Airport, UAE
Top Juice – multiple airports
Smoothie King – OdehMickens DFW Concessions, DFW International Airport, USA
Airport Food Hall of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
4 FOOD Street Kitchen – Allresto Flughafen München Hotel und Gaststätten GmbH, Munich Airport, Germany
Adalstræti – SSP Iceland, Keflavik Airport, Iceland
Areas Italy – Areas, Milan Malpensa Airport, Italy
Daily Dubai Terminal 3 Concourse B – Lagardère Travel Retail, Dubai International Airport, UAE
Hello Mercato – Travel Food Services, Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, India
InfinEat – Lagardère Travel Retail, Varna International Airport, Bulgaria
Marche – Lagardère Travel Retail, Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
SF EATS Food Hall – Paradies Lagardère, San Francisco International Airport, USA
Taste of Anatolia – BFA, Antalya Airport, Türkiye
Airport Food Hall of the Year Silver Awards
Denver Street Eats – Denver International Airport, USA
Gordon Ramsay Plane Food Market – Gordon Ramsay Restaurants Global, Heathrow Airport, UK
Oasis Food Hall – Avolta, King Khalid International Airport, Saudi Arabia
Urban Food Court – Avolta, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Malaysia
Airport Sustainability & Environmental Initiative of the Year Gold Awards (and Finalists)
Areas and Phenix – Areas, Multiple airports
Avolta Bangalore Airport – Avolta, Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, India
Boost recycling practices – Avolta, Brussels Airport, Belgium
BTA – Multiple airports
BTA Circular Kitchen – BTA, multiple airports
Green Restaurant Association x OTG – OTG Management, multiple airports
Kepler Club – multiple airports
Lagardère Travel Retail UAE – Dubai International Airport and Zayed International Airport, UAE
Redefining Sustainability in Airport F&B – Travel Food Services, multiple airports
SSP UK&Ireland – Multiple airports
A diverse line-up of distinguished speakers has already been announced, with more to be revealed in the coming days.
Early bird registration for the event remains open until 1 June, with delegates encouraged to register via the dedicated website.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source for India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, a key addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
Airport Dimensions signs on as Hospitality Partner for FAB 2026 Bengaluru event
INDIA. Airport Dimensions, a global specialist in airport experiences, has joined the heavyweight roster of industry supporters for the highly anticipated Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report since 2011, this year’s FAB will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
For more than two decades, Airport Dimensions has developed and operated airport lounges and passenger experiences across North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia Pacific. The company manages a portfolio of more than 90 lounges and experiences, supported by over 70 partnerships and access to Priority Pass passenger insights.
Airport Dimensions CEO Mignon Buckingham said: “FAB continues to bring together some of the most influential voices across travel hospitality. In an industry shaped by partnerships and evolving passenger expectations, it creates a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, strengthen relationships and help shape what comes next.”
Taj Bangalore in Bengaluru is the venue for FAB 2026, offering extensive facilities for conferences and business engagement {Photo: Taj Bangalore}
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
The highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners to be unveiled earlier during the conference.
The diverse line-up of distinguished speakers has already been announced, with more to be revealed in the coming days.
Early bird registration for the event remains open until 1 June, with delegates encouraged to register via the dedicated website.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
FAB 2026 is “Go, Go, Go” as more industry leaders join powerhouse programme
INDIA. The Airport Food and Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards 2026, set for 7-8 July in Bengaluru, continues to take exciting shape, with additional senior industry executives joining an already diverse and powerful speaking line-up.
Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) leadership will be out in force, including CEO and Managing Director, the inspirational Hari Marar, and Vice President Hospitality George Bennet Kuruvilla.
TFS Managing Director and CEO Varun Kapur; Panoramic Advisory Director Mark Angela; tRetail Labs Professor for Hospitality Management Dr Thorsten Merkle; Plaza Premium Group Director of Strategic Initiatives Mira Hmoud; and Conceptional Associate Partner Michiel Reuvers are others to join what amounts to a collective thought leadership ensemble.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report since 2011, this year’s FAB will be hosted by BIAL in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
Bangalore International Airport Limited CEO and Managing Director Hari Marar: Steering one of India’s fastest-growing airports to extraordinary heights in aviation, commercial, CSR and cultural terms
BIAL CEO and Managing Director Hari Marar will deliver the Welcome Remarks and take part in a fireside chat with The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman.
The charismatic and visionary Marar brings nearly three decades of experience in the aviation sector, including his role as a former Jet Airways executive, where he became instrumental in the development and growth of Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru since its inception.
At BIAL, he has held several senior leadership roles and played a key part in the operationalisation of Bengaluru’s greenfield airport, as well as the introduction of advanced airport management systems in India.
He has overseen major expansions, including Terminal 2, helping position the airport as a benchmark for technology, sustainability and passenger experience.
“FAB 2026 is a case of Go, Go, Go,” said Martin Moodie, the event’s creator in 2011 and Founder & Chairman of The Moodie Davitt Report. “We recognise the difficult market conditions caused by the Middle East war and the resultant impact on business travel and air ticket prices.
“However, we have attracted an outstanding line-up of speakers, a stellar list of entries for the FAB Awards, impressive sponsorship levels and an encouraging uptick in delegate registrations.
“Our commitment to the airport F&B sector has been absolute since that fledgling event in Manchester in early 2011 and we are not wavering from it now. With the magnificent support of Bangalore International Airport Limited and one of the world’s greatest airports on the doorstep of the event, FAB 2026 will be an exhilarating, engaging and educational experience.”
BIAL Vice President – Hospitality George Bennet Kuruvilla will feature on the panel ‘Raising the Bar in Indian Airport Food & Beverage.’
BIAL Vice President – Hospitality George Bennet Kuruvilla is on a mission to redefine Indian airport hospitality
Beyond his role as Vice President – Hospitality at BIAL, Kuruvilla also serves as CEO of Bangalore Airport Services Limited. He is focused on redefining airport hospitality in India, with a strong emphasis on operational excellence, people-first leadership and sustainability-driven service.
Drawing on more than 32 years of experience across leading luxury hotel brands in India and internationally, he has held senior roles with Marriott, Oberoi, Taj, Hyatt and Radisson, and previously served as General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore.
With 15 years of global aviation experience across Canada, Jordan and the UAE, Mira Al-Hmoud will take part in a session themed ‘Creating World-Class Environments through Enhanced Design, Ambience and Service’, bringing expertise in strategic initiatives, partnerships and commercial development.
Plaza Premium Group Director of Strategic Initiatives Mira Al-Hmoud joins a strong industry panel to talk about ‘Creating World-Class Environments through Enhanced Design, Ambience and Service’
Since joining PPG in 2022, she has led initiatives focused on people, innovation and ESG. She previously spent nearly a decade at the International Air Transport Association, managing global commercial portfolios spanning airline distribution, modern retailing and digital transformation.
TFS Managing Director and CEO Varun Kapur brings seasoned industry insight to the discussion
Varun Kapur will join a panel exploring ‘Global, Regional and Local’ trends, drawing on over a decade of industry experience. Based in Mumbai, he heads TFS, a leading airport F&B and lounge operator with more than 500 outlets across 20 airports in India and Southeast Asia, and over 35 international airport lounges.
An equitable gender balance has been central to the programme’s curation. Pictured above and below clockwise from top left are SSP UK Ireland and Netherlands CEO Kari Daniels; TAV Airports Holding and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Commercial Officer of TAV Operation Services Aude Ferrand; Lagardère Travel Retail Vice President Dining Christine Bony; Opula Chief Strategy and Growth Officer Jo Pennycuick; and Airport Dimensions Chief Executive Mignon Buckingham
As reported, Alina Alam, the inspirational Founder & CEO of Mitti Café in India, will deliver a keynote address. At FAB 2024 in Ontario, California, Alam and Bangalore International Airport Limited were awarded the FAB Humanitarian Award for their joint initiative in bringing Mitti Café to the airport world.
Mitti Café is part of Mitti Social Services Foundation, an extraordinary social enterprise dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing them with opportunities for economic independence and dignity
Bangalore International Airport Limited provided Mitti Café a momentous breakthrough in 2022 with the opening of the first two outlets at Kempegowda International Airport
Alina Alam was named among The Moodie Davitt Report People of the Year in 2024
Mitti Social Services Foundation creates employment by hiring and training team members in its cafés across airports and other public institutions. The first Mitti Café was opened at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, a breakthrough that has led to other airport openings, including more at the Bengaluru gateway.
Mark Angela will join the discussion on ‘Airport F&B Manifesto 2035: A Movement to Redefine Airport Dining’, bringing over 40 years of experience across FMCG, retail and foodservice.
He recently stepped back from a full-time role after 14 years with SSP, where he held senior leadership positions across the UK, Asia Pacific and EEME regions, as well as global commercial and business development functions.
Redefining travel dining: Panoramic Advisory Director Mark Angela joins the panel
Angela’s career spans leadership roles at Colgate-Palmolive, Pizza Express and Greene King, where he led large-scale hospitality and retail operations across international markets. He is now active in an advisory capacity within the food travel sector, with deep expertise in strategy, transformation and business building.
Joining Angela on the panel is Dr Thorsten Merkle, Professor for Hospitality Management at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences.
With a PhD in Business and Management and an MBA, he brings over 20 years of global experience in catering, major events and service excellence.
tRetail Labs Professor Dr Thorsten Merkle will bring his expertise in foodservice innovation and airport hospitality to the discussion
His work focuses on foodservice innovation, climate-conscious hospitality and airport F&B concessions, and he regularly advises airports and concessionaires on passenger experience, social reputation and sustainable cuisine.
Conceptional Associate Partner Michiel Reuvers is a valuable addition to the panel, bringing expertise in commercial and operational F&B environments
Michiel Reuvers joins Al-Hmoud on the panel, bringing more than 25 years of international experience across travel, hospitality and food & beverage. He specialises in turning strategic concepts into commercially viable and operationally effective F&B environments, particularly within complex assets such as airports, retail centres and mixed-use developments.
His career includes senior roles at Schiphol, Avolta (formerly HMSHost/World Duty Free), McArthurGlen and Vermaat Group, where he most recently served as Chief Commercial Officer for the Netherlands. He is currently Associate Partner at Conceptional, focusing on business development and master planning for large-scale destination projects.
Early bird registration for the event remains open until 1 June, with delegates encouraged to register via the dedicated website.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
More influential industry leaders join FAB Conference 2026; Early Bird registration deadline extended
INDIA. The early bird registration deadline for the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards has been extended to 1 June, with further high-profile speakers added to the conference programme ahead of the event in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
Delegates can access the registration portal via the dedicated website.
This decision reflects the ongoing uncertainty and operational challenges stemming from the conflict in the Middle East. The situation has disrupted key aviation routes, driven up fuel costs and created significant complications for international travel planning among industry professionals worldwide.
In this environment, many organisations are adopting a more cautious approach to international travel commitments.
By extending the Early Bird registration, FAB 2026 seeks to provide greater flexibility and support to the industry, enabling continued collaboration and knowledge-sharing at a time when innovation in airport food & beverage and hospitality experiences remains critically important.
Hosted this year by Bangalore International Airport Limited, the only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, the highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners to be unveiled earlier during the conference.
Rethinking heritage hubs: Aena Brasil Chief Commercial Officer Juan José Sánchez will discuss building world-class F&B and premium passenger experiences
Aena Brasil Chief Commercial Officer Juan José Sánchez is among the latest confirmed speakers for this year’s conference, where he will discuss ‘Creating a World-Class F&B and Premium Experience in a Heritage Airport’.
He oversees commercial strategy across a 17-airport portfolio, including São Paulo Congonhas, and brings over 18 years of experience in airport development, including senior roles at Lima Airport and Fraport’s Brazilian operations.
Sánchez has played a key role in shaping airport commercial ecosystems across South America, spanning F&B, travel retail, advertising and wider non-aeronautical revenue streams.
He is currently preparing for the integration of Rio de Janeiro-Galeão into the Aena network.
Airport gastronomy in focus: BTA Author & Gastronomy Researcher Ömür Akkor adds cultural depth to the discussion, drawing on his expertise in Anatolian food heritage and storytelling
The panel on ‘Deliver Unforgettable Airport Gastronomy’ will be strengthened by the participation of BTA Author & Gastronomy Researcher Ömür Akkor, BTA CEO Baha Bülbül and Fraport TAV Antalya Airport General Manager Dr Frank Quante.
Akkor is a Turkish chef, author and cultural researcher recognised for introducing the culinary heritage of Anatolia to a global audience. He has built a multidisciplinary career spanning gastronomy, history and academia, and has explored more than 12,000 years of Anatolian food culture.
Author of over 30 books, including Ottoman Cuisine and The Oldest Dishes of Anatolia, he is a multiple Gourmand World Cookbook Award winner, Founder of the Anatolian Gastronomy Foundation, and a familiar face on BBC and CNN with nearly 500 TV episodes to his name.
He has collaborated with Harvard, Yale, the University of Liverpool and the University of Milan, worked in over 40 countries, and supports local producers through community-focused social impact initiatives.
BTA CEO Baha Bülbül brings a leadership perspective to transforming airport dining experiences
As Chief Executive Officer of BTA, Bülbül has played an important role in shaping the company’s evolution into a leading global player in travel catering and hospitality over more than two decades.
Since joining BTA in 1999, he has held senior leadership roles across cost control, business development, operations and international expansion, including serving as General Manager of BTA Seaways and later Chief Operating Officer. Since becoming CEO in 2023, Bülbül has focused on driving global growth, digitalisation and sustainability across the business.
Dr Quante is an internationally experienced airport executive with a cross-sector background spanning energy, telecommunications, IT and aviation, and C-level roles across Germany, Bulgaria and Türkiye.
Fraport TAV Antalya Airport General Manager Dr Frank Quante will offer a global perspective gained through leading airport operations across multiple markets
Since 2025, he has been General Manager of Fraport TAV Antalya Airport, overseeing one of Türkiye’s key aviation hubs. He previously joined Fraport in 2020 as CEO of Fraport Twin Star Airport Management, where he was responsible for Burgas and Varna airports in Bulgaria.
The initial line-up of distinguished speakers has been previously announced.
As reported, Alina Alam, Founder & CEO of Mitti Café in India, will deliver a keynote address. At the FAB event in Ontario, California in 2024, Alam and Bangalore International Airport Limited were awarded the FAB Humanitarian Award for their joint initiative in bringing Mitti Café to the airport world. She was also named one of The Moodie Davitt Report’s People of the Year for 2024.
Mitti Café is part of Mitti Social Services Foundation, an extraordinary social enterprise dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing them with opportunities for economic independence and dignity.
Mitti Social Services Foundation creates employment by hiring and training team members in its cafés across airports and other public institutions. The first Mitti Café was opened at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, a breakthrough that has led to other airport openings, including more at the Bengaluru gateway.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
FAB 2026 continues to build momentum as more top executives join dazzling conference programme
INDIA. More leading industry voices have been confirmed for the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards in Bengaluru on 7-8 July, adding further weight to an already strong programme.
Among the latest names in the star-studded line-up are Airport Dimensions CEO Mignon Buckingham; Opula Chief Strategy and Growth Officer Jo Pennycuick; Lagardère Travel Retail Chief Commercial & Digital Officer Lylian Vignau; and Lagardère Travel Retail Vice President Dining Marketing Christine Bony.
Hosted this year by Bangalore International Airport Limited, the only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, the highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners to be unveiled earlier during the conference.
Airport Dimensions CEO Mignon Buckingham will discuss the changing role of airport lounges in the passenger journey
Airport Dimensions Chief Executive Mignon Buckingham will join the panel on ‘Turning Passengers into Guests: Where Next for Airport Hospitality?’, bringing more than 30 years of experience in business strategy and leadership.
A hospitality industry veteran, she shares insights drawn from her tenure as a long-serving Collinson executive and Board Director, where she led the global expansion of its loyalty marketing and airport ventures. She now drives digital innovation and lounge growth at Airport Dimensions, which she joined in 2020.
With nearly three decades of international experience in design-led strategy, Jo Pennycuick will speak on ‘Creating World-Class Environments through Enhanced Design, Ambience and Service.’
Opula Chief Strategy and Growth Officer Jo Pennycuick will share thoughts on the role of design and service in building world-class airport experiences
She leads strategic growth and market development at Opula across airports, airlines, lounges and travel retail, redefining how high-value travellers engage through integrated lounges, retail and digital touchpoints.
Pennycuick also leads the creative design of Opula’s in-lounge screen experiences, enhancing engagement while preserving a premium lounge atmosphere. Her work challenges traditional airport models by driving revenue through behaviour-led engagement that aligns customer experience with commercial performance.
The ‘Global Vision for Innovative F&B Concepts’ session will feature Christine Bony and Lylian Vignau.
Lagardère Travel Retail Vice President Dining Marketing Christine Bony brings more than two decades of expertise in foodservice and retail marketing to the discussion
With a career spanning over 20 years in foodservice and retail marketing, Bony currently leads brand and concept innovation at Lagardère Travel Retail across more than 30 countries.
She previously held senior marketing roles at SSP, Planet Sushi, Groupe Flo and Wonderbox, specialising in brand strategy and digital communications.
Vignau, Chief Commercial & Digital Officer at Lagardère Travel Retail and a member of its Executive Committee, began his career at Rémy Cointreau in 1992, working across France, Australia and China. He joined Casino Group in 1995, serving in senior international roles across Latin America, Switzerland and France, including International Merchandise Director.
Lagardère Travel Retail Chief Commercial & Digital Officer Lylian Vignau will add further depth to the discussion, drawing on his leadership of commercial strategy and digital transformation
He later joined Sephora Europe & Middle East in 2014 as Head Merchant, before becoming CEO of Lagardère Travel Retail’s Duty Free division in 2017. In 2024, he was appointed Chief Commercial & Digital Officer, overseeing commercial strategy, digital acceleration and global performance.
The initial line-up of distinguished speakers has been previously announced.
As reported, Alina Alam, Founder & CEO of Mitti Café in India, will deliver a keynote address. At the FAB event in Ontario, California in 2024, Alam and Bangalore International Airport Limited were awarded the FAB Humanitarian Award for their joint initiative in bringing Mitti Café to the airport world. She was also named one of The Moodie Davitt Report’s People of the Year for 2024.
Mitti Café is part of Mitti Social Services Foundation, an extraordinary social enterprise dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing them with opportunities for economic independence and dignity.
Mitti Social Services Foundation creates employment by hiring and training team members in its cafés across airports and other public institutions. The first Mitti Café was opened at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, a breakthrough that has led to other airport openings, including more at the Bengaluru gateway.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
Lagardère Travel Retail signs on as Lunch Partner for FAB Conference & Awards in Bengaluru
INDIA. Lagardère Travel Retail is once again lending its support as Lunch Partner for the upcoming Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, this year’s event will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
Lagardère Travel Retail, a French-based international company with a 170-year history, operates over 4,970 stores across travel essentials, duty free & fashion and dining in 51 markets. It generated €7.6 biliion in sales in 2024.
Lagardère Travel Retail VP Dining Christine Bony said, “I am very pleased to confirm Lagardère Travel Retail’s support for the FAB Conference & Awards this year.
“This flagship event in the airport dining industry highlights the dynamism and strategic importance of our sector within the travel retail commercial offer.
“FAB is a unique opportunity to connect with our partners and peers, to exchange ideas, and to collectively challenge, anticipate and shape emerging trends. Most importantly, it is about working together to give travellers the best and most memorable experience.
“I am looking forward very much to visiting Bangalore, to taking part in the discussions, and to connecting with colleagues and friends from across the industry.”
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
The highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners to be unveiled earlier during the conference.
The initial line-up of distinguished speakers has been previously announced.
Delegates have until tomorrow (30 April) to secure Early Bird rates for the event via the registration portal.
An Early Bird delegate pass for US$1,500 is available until 30 April, with the standard registration fee rising to US$1,700 after the deadline. As part of our commitment to industry engagement, airport delegates are eligible for an attractive -50% discount on both the Early Bird and regular registration fees.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
SSP’s Kari Daniels and GMR’s Tarun Arora boost powerhouse FAB 2026 line-up; Early Bird deadline in 2 days
INDIA. SSP UK and Ireland, Netherlands CEO Kari Daniels and GMR Airports Chief Commercial Officer Tarun Arora are the latest high-profile additions to the stellar line-up for the upcoming Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, this year’s gathering will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
With the 30 April deadline fast approaching, delegates have two days left to secure Early Bird rates for the event.
Delegates can access the registration portal via the dedicated website.
An Early Bird delegate pass for US$1,500 is available until 30 April, with the standard registration fee rising to US$1,700 after the deadline. As part of our commitment to industry engagement, airport delegates are eligible for an attractive -50% discount on both the Early Bird and regular registration fees.
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
Kari Daniels will bring her extensive retail and F&B expertise to the panel, ‘Global, Regional, Local’.
SSP UK and Ireland, Netherlands CEO Kari Daniels is well placed to steer insightful discussions on elevating the airport dining experience
She draws on 30 years of multi-channel retail experience across food, general merchandise and clothing, with senior roles at global retailers and FTSE 100 FMCG brands.
This includes 20 years at Tesco, where she spent four years as CEO of Tesco Ireland, leading the business through COVID-19 and Brexit. Earlier in her career, she was Commercial Director at Superdrug and held marketing roles at SC Johnson, Wella and Arcadia.
She is also a board member of Cancer Research UK and Great Ormond Street Hospital.
GMR Airports Chief Commercial Officer Tarun Arora will explore what lies ahead for airport hospitality
Tarun Arora will join discussions on ‘Raising the Bar in Indian Airport Food & Beverage’, bringing over three decades of experience spanning retail, hospitality, duty free and consulting, alongside deep expertise in sales, marketing, operations and supply chain.
A 12-year veteran of GMR Group, he is currently Sector Chief Commercial Officer for Non-Aeronautical Businesses across its airport portfolio in India.
The initial line-up of distinguished speakers has been previously announced.
As reported, Alina Alam, Founder & CEO of Mitti Café in India, will deliver a keynote address. At the FAB event in Ontario, California in 2024, Alam and Bangalore International Airport Limited were awarded the FAB Humanitarian Award for their joint initiative in bringing Mitti Café to the airport world. She was also named one of The Moodie Davitt Report’s People of the Year for 2024.
Mitti Café is part of Mitti Social Services Foundation, an extraordinary social enterprise dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing them with opportunities for economic independence and dignity.
Mitti Social Services Foundation creates employment by hiring and training team members in its cafés across airports and other public institutions. The first Mitti Café was opened at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, a breakthrough that has led to other airport openings, including more at the Bengaluru gateway.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
Anticipation builds for FAB Bengaluru event with TRG Concessions as Silver Partner
INDIA. TRG Concessions has joined the prestigious line-up of industry players at the upcoming Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards, signing on as Silver Partner for the event in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, this year’s gathering will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
One of the world’s leading airport food & beverage operators, TRG Concessions leverages 35 years of experience to deliver its signature hospitality to travellers across the UK and beyond.
Its extensive brand portfolio spans multiple service formats, from table-service dining to quick-service restaurants, pubs and bars. The company also develops bespoke concepts tailored to client needs, while building partnerships to franchise-leading third-party brands.
TRG Concessions CEO Jon Knight said, “The Airport FAB Awards remain one of the most influential gatherings in global travel hospitality, recognising the brands, operators and partners redefining what great passenger experience looks like around the globe.
“We are proud to support FAB as a Silver Sponsor in 2026 and to stand alongside industry peers who share our ambition to continually raise the bar across airport food & beverage.
“With more than 35 years in the sector, TRGC remain as excited as ever by the pace of innovation, changing customer expectations and the opportunities ahead.
“We look forward to joining our partners and clients in July to celebrate excellence, exchange ideas and help shape the next chapter of travel hospitality.”
The highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners to be unveiled earlier during the conference.
The FAB 2026 edition marks the event’s 15th anniversary and, for the first time, will embrace the new ‘Airport Hospitality World’ title, dedicated to lounges and all related airport hospitality services.
The sensory room in Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru Terminal 2 provides a calming, engaging and therapeutic environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities
Besides lounges, hotels, Meet & Greet, concierge services and more, FAB 2026 will also include a historic inclusion element, inspired by Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru’s recent introduction of a pioneering Sensory Room, a thoughtfully designed space tailored for neurodivergent passengers and individuals with sensory sensitivities.
An initial line-up of distinguished speakers has been revealed, with more to be announced in the coming weeks.
Delegates can still secure Early Bird rates by registering via the dedicated event portal.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source on India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, the newest addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
Ten days to go: Early Bird offer for FAB 2026 closes 30 April
INDIA. With the 30 April deadline fast approaching, delegates have ten days left to secure Early Bird rates for the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards 2026, to be held in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
Delegates can access the registration portal via the dedicated website.
An Early Bird delegate pass for US$1,500 is available until 30 April, with the standard registration fee rising to US$1,700 after the deadline. As part of our commitment to industry engagement, airport delegates are eligible for an attractive -50% discount on both the Early Bird and regular registration fees.
Hosted this year by Bangalore International Airport Limited, the only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, the highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners to be unveiled earlier during the conference.
The FAB 2026 edition marks the event’s 15th anniversary and, for the first time, will embrace the new ‘Airport Hospitality World’ title, dedicated to lounges and all related airport hospitality services.
The sensory room in Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru Terminal 2 provides a calming, engaging and therapeutic environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities
Besides lounges, hotels, Meet & Greet, concierge services and more, FAB 2026 will also include a historic inclusion element, inspired by Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru’s recent introduction of a pioneering Sensory Room, a thoughtfully designed space tailored for neurodivergent passengers and individuals with sensory sensitivities.
An initial line-up of distinguished speakers has been revealed, with more to be announced in the coming weeks.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
TAV’s Aude Ferrand and CAVU’s Matt Etchells bring leadership insight to FAB 2026
INDIA. TAV Airports Holding Chief Commercial Officer & TAV Operation Services CEO Aude Ferrand, and CAVU Experiences Director Matt Etchells have joined an already powerful speakers line-up for the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, this year’s gathering will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
TAV Airports Holding Chief Commercial Officer & TAV Operation Services CEO Aude Ferrand brings a global perspective to the conference, shaped by deep expertise across an international airport portfolio
Ferrand, a key driver of TAV Operation Services’ global growth, brings fresh industry insight to the conference. She leads commercial and marketing strategy across the group’s international portfolio, aligning retail, food & beverage, services and digital ecosystems to deliver meaningful passenger experiences and sustainable value for partners.
Leveraging her experience across aviation, hospitality, travel retail and luxury, she offers a broad perspective on the evolution of airport ecosystems.
CAVU Experiences Director Matt Etchells returns to the FAB Conference stage, bringing insight into a fast-evolving segment of airport experience and commercial growth
A well-regarded industry veteran, Matt Etchells brings depth to the discussion, drawing on over 20 years’ experience in airport management across aviation development, retail and operations.
At CAVU owner Manchester Airports Group, he has held senior roles spanning retail operations, customer services, terminal operations and hospitality. He has contributed to key projects, including the acquisition of London Stansted Airport, the Manchester Airport transformation programme and the expansion of CAVU lounges across the UK, US and Australia.
In his current role at CAVU, he leads P&L management and drives the growth of its experience portfolio.
As reported, Alina Alam, Founder & CEO of Mitti Café in India, will deliver a keynote address. At the FAB event in Ontario, California in 2024, Alam and Bangalore International Airport Limited were awarded the FAB Humanitarian Award for their joint initiative in bringing Mitti Café to the airport world. She was also named one of The Moodie Davitt Report’s People of the Year for 2024.
Mitti Café is part of Mitti Social Services Foundation, an extraordinary social enterprise dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing them with opportunities for economic independence and dignity.
Mitti Social Services Foundation creates employment by hiring and training team members in its cafés across airports and other public institutions. The first Mitti Café was opened at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, a breakthrough that has led to other airport openings, including more at the Bengaluru gateway.
Early Bird registration for the event is still open through the dedicated website.
An Early Bird delegate pass for US$1,500 is available until 30 April, with the standard registration fee rising to US$1,700 after the deadline. As part of our commitment to industry engagement, airport delegates are eligible for an attractive -50% discount on both the Early Bird and regular registration fees.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
Deadline approaching: Four weeks remain until Early Bird deadline for FAB 2026
INDIA. The Early Bird deadline for the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards 2026 is fast approaching, with delegates encouraged to register before 30 April to secure discounted rates.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, this year’s gathering will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
Delegates can access the registration portal via the dedicated website.
An Early Bird delegate pass for US$1,500 is available until 30 April, with the standard registration fee rising to US$1,700 after the deadline. As part of our commitment to industry engagement, airport delegates are eligible for an attractive -50% discount on both the Early Bird and regular registration fees.
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
The highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners to be unveiled earlier during the conference.
The FAB 2026 edition marks the event’s 15th anniversary and, for the first time, will embrace the new ‘Airport Hospitality World’ title, dedicated to lounges and all related airport hospitality services.
The sensory room in Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru Terminal 2 provides a calming, engaging and therapeutic environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities
Besides lounges, hotels, Meet & Greet, concierge services and more, FAB 2026 will also include a historic inclusion element, inspired by Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru’s recent introduction of a pioneering Sensory Room, a thoughtfully designed space tailored for neurodivergent passengers and individuals with sensory sensitivities.
The full speaker programme will be announced in the coming weeks.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
Taj Bangalore named conference venue and official hotel for FAB 2026 in Bengaluru
INDIA. The Moodie Davitt Report is delighted to announce Taj Bangalore in Bengaluru as the venue for the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards 2026, taking place on 7-8 July.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, this year’s gathering will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
Well connected to the city centre, the hotel provides ample space for conferences and business engagement {Photos: Taj Bangalore}
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
The highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners to be unveiled earlier during the conference.
Located near Kempegowda International Airport, Taj Bangalore combines accessibility with distinctive design, featuring glazed exteriors and granite structures that create a bold architectural identity.
A bright, open layout provides comfortable areas for lounging, informal discussions and casual meetings
The interior is distinguished by a grand marble lobby, high ceilings and expansive windows overlooking the airport, while alfresco spaces, tailored services and signature Taj hospitality complete the experience.
Featuring 370 guestrooms and a range of flexible meeting and conference venues, the hotel caters to both business and leisure travellers.
FAB delegates can book preferential room rates until 5 June via this link.
Moxy Bengaluru Airport Prestige Tech Cloud provides a design-forward, well-connected stay tailored to both business and leisure travellers {Photo: Moxy Hotels}
Alternative accommodation will also be available nearby at Moxy Bengaluru Airport Prestige Tech Cloud.
The hotel offers 128 rooms and suites with pool views, as well as amenities such as an outdoor pool and fitness centre.
Preferential rates for FAB delegates are offered through 30 May via this link, subject to room block availability.
Additional details on the Opening Cocktail and Gala Dinner venues will follow.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source on India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, the newest addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
Encalm Hospitality bolsters FAB 2026 powerhouse line-up as Gold Partner
INDIA. Encalm Hospitality has joined the star-studded line-up of industry players at the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards, signing on as a Gold Partner for the event in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, this year’s gathering will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
The highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners to be unveiled earlier during the conference.
Encalm Hospitality specialises in airport hospitality, offering VIP lounges, concierge services and airport hotels to enhance the traveller experience in India.
The company operates across key airports, including Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, Rajiv Gandhi International in Hyderabad and Manohar International in Goa, under its portfolio of brands. These include Atithya, Encalm Lounge, Encalm Spa, Enrwap, Encalm Privé, Round D Clock and Transite by Encalm.
Encalm Hospitality Group CEO Vikas Sharma said, “We’re pleased to return as a Gold Sponsor at FAB 2026, a platform that continues to set the benchmark for excellence in airport hospitality.
“As passenger expectations evolve, there is a growing opportunity to create more thoughtful, seamless and experience-led journeys. At Encalm, we remain committed to delivering consistently high standards and supporting platforms that bring innovation and collaboration to the forefront.”
The FAB 2026 edition marks the event’s 15th anniversary and, for the first time, will embrace the new ‘Airport Hospitality World’ title, dedicated to lounges and all related airport hospitality services.
The sensory room in Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru Terminal 2 provides a calming, engaging and therapeutic environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities
Besides lounges, hotels, Meet & Greet, concierge services and more, FAB 2026 will also include a historic inclusion element, inspired by Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru’s recent introduction of a pioneering Sensory Room, a thoughtfully designed space tailored for neurodivergent passengers and individuals with sensory sensitivities.
The full speaker programme will be announced in the coming weeks.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
Don’t miss out: Two weeks left for FAB Awards and FAB Superstars submissions
INDIA. With the 10 April deadline fast approaching, entries remain open for the highly anticipated Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Awards and FAB Superstars Awards.
Nominations may now be submitted through our dedicated website until the closing date.
The FAB Awards mark the culmination of The Moodie Davitt Report’s Airport FAB + Hospitality Conference, taking place 7-8 July in Bengaluru.
Hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited, the 2026 edition marks the event’s 15th anniversary and, for the first time, will embrace the new ‘Airport Hospitality World’ title, dedicated to lounges and all related airport hospitality services.
FAB Superstars winners will be announced during the conference, while recipients of the FAB Awards will be revealed at the Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July.
The Airport FAB + Hospitality Conference & Awards encompass all aspects of airport food & beverage, lounges and related hospitality services.
As announced in May, FAB 2026 will extend its reach beyond lounges to include hotels, Meet & Greet, concierge services and other hospitality touchpoints, recognising their integral role in shaping the overall airport experience.
From beautiful Barcelona to vibrant Bengaluru: At the FAB 2025 handover ceremony, Bangalore International Airport Limited Vice President of Commercial Development, Pravat Paikray (left), accepted the hosting rights for FAB 2026 from Barcelona-El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport Managing Director Eva Valenzuela (second right). As part of the ceremony, Paikray honoured Valenzuela, along with The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie and President Dermot Davitt, with traditional garlands from Bengaluru.
The event will also feature a landmark inclusivity initiative inspired by Kempegowda International Airport’s pioneering Sensory Room, a purpose-built space designed to support neurodivergent passengers and travellers with sensory sensitivities.
The prestigious FAB Awards also honour those who have made a positive impact through Environmental, Social and Governance initiatives.
The eligibility period is from 1 March 2025 to 28 February 2026. Full details about each category, submission requirements and assessment criteria are available via the dedicated website.
For the FAB Awards, a nominal fee of US$249 per submission is payable via the portal.
For the FAB Superstars, a nominal fee of US$99 per submission is payable via the portal.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
SSP and Travel Food Services lend heavyweight support as joint Diamond & Lanyard Partners for FAB 2026
INDIA. SSP and Travel Food Services have bolstered the partner line-up for the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards, signing on as joint Diamond & Lanyard Partners for the event in Bengaluru on 7-8 July.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, this year’s event will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
The highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners to be unveiled earlier during the conference.
A global leader in F&B services, SSP Group is a longstanding partner of the event.
The company has expanded steadily over the years and now operates across travel hubs worldwide, with 49,000 employees in more than 3,000 outlets across 38 markets.
SSP Group CEO Patrick Coveney said, “FAB is one of the most important gatherings for the global travel food sector, bringing together partners and innovators shaping the future of food and hospitality in travel.
“As food travel experts, SSP operates in nearly 40 countries, serving millions of people every day through a portfolio of global brands and locally inspired concepts tailored for airports and transport hubs. Our focus is simple: great food and warm hospitality that make every journey taste better.
“With this year’s event taking place in India, one of the fastest-growing travel markets in the world, we’re delighted to support FAB as a Diamond sponsor alongside our partner Travel Food Services.
“Through our partnership with TFS, we operate over 450 outlets across India’s busiest airports and see strong long-term growth opportunities in this important market.
“FAB is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the creativity and innovation shaping our industry, and we look forward to working with our partners and clients to shape the future of food and hospitality in travel.”
Also a long-time FAB partner, TFS has established itself as a leading force in India’s airport quick-service restaurant and lounge market.
Backed by SSP Group and K Hospitality Corp (Kapur family), TFS launched its initial public offering in July and currently manages a network of more than 530 units spanning 140 brands.
Travel Food Services Managing Director and CEO Varun Kapur added: “We are delighted to continue our association with the FAB Conference & Awards in 2026 as Diamond & Lanyard Partner alongside SSP. It is especially meaningful to welcome the global travel hospitality community to India and to Bengaluru.
“We hope delegates experience the warmth of Indian hospitality and transit through Kempegowda International Airport, one of the finest airports in the world.
“At Travel Food Services, we operate across both lounges and airport F&B with a deep sense of passion and a strong focus on innovation and operational excellence, constantly striving to enhance the traveller experience.
“In that context, FAB is an invaluable platform that brings together industry leaders to share best practices, explore new ideas, and advance standards of excellence across our sector.
“As the role of F&B in airports continues to evolve into a key driver of passenger experience and commercial success, we look forward to engaging with our peers and contributing to the conversations shaping the future of travel hospitality.”
The FAB 2026 edition marks the event’s 15th anniversary and, for the first time, will embrace the new ‘Airport Hospitality World’ title, dedicated to lounges and all related airport hospitality services.
The sensory room in Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru Terminal 2 provides a calming, engaging and therapeutic environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities
Besides lounges, hotels, Meet & Greet, concierge services and more, FAB 2026 will also include a historic inclusion element, inspired by Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru’s recent introduction of a pioneering Sensory Room, a thoughtfully designed space tailored for neurodivergent passengers and individuals with sensory sensitivities.
The full speaker programme will be announced in the coming weeks.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source on India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, the newest addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
FAB Awards and FAB Superstars: Only three weeks left to submit entries
INDIA. Entries for the eagerly anticipated Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Awards and FAB Superstars Awards are still open, with the 10 April deadline fast approaching.
Nominations may now be submitted through our dedicated website until the closing date.
The FAB Awards mark the culmination of The Moodie Davitt Report’s Airport FAB + Hospitality Conference, taking place 7-8 July in Bengaluru.
Hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited, the 2026 edition marks the event’s 15th anniversary and, for the first time, will embrace the new ‘Airport Hospitality World’ title, dedicated to lounges and all related airport hospitality services.
FAB Superstars winners will be announced during the conference, while recipients of the FAB Awards will be revealed at the Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July.
The Airport FAB + Hospitality Conference & Awards encompass all aspects of airport food & beverage, lounges and related hospitality services.
As announced in May, FAB 2026 will extend its reach beyond lounges to include hotels, Meet & Greet, concierge services and other hospitality touchpoints, recognising their integral role in shaping the overall airport experience.
From beautiful Barcelona to vibrant Bengaluru: At the FAB 2025 handover ceremony, Bangalore International Airport Limited Vice President of Commercial Development, Pravat Paikray (left), accepted the hosting rights for FAB 2026 from Barcelona-El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport Managing Director Eva Valenzuela (second right). As part of the ceremony, Paikray honoured Valenzuela, along with The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie and President Dermot Davitt, with traditional garlands from Bengaluru.
The event will also feature a landmark inclusivity initiative inspired by Kempegowda International Airport’s pioneering Sensory Room, a purpose-built space designed to support neurodivergent passengers and travellers with sensory sensitivities.
The prestigious FAB Awards also honour those who have made a positive impact through Environmental, Social and Governance initiatives.
All entries will be assessed by an independent panel of judges comprising relevant experts and professionals.
The eligibility period is from 1 March 2025 to 28 February 2026. Full details about each category, submission requirements and assessment criteria are available via the dedicated website.
For the FAB Awards, a nominal fee of US$249 per submission is payable via the portal.
For the FAB Superstars, a nominal fee of US$99 per submission is payable via the portal.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
FAB 2026 Bengaluru event gains momentum with BTA Food & Services as Platinum Partner
INDIA. TAV Airports subsidiary BTA Food & Services has signed up as Platinum Partner for the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards to be held on 7-8 July in Bengaluru.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, this year’s event will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
The only global airport food & beverage and hospitality event will bring together senior executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners from around the world.
The highly anticipated annual industry gathering will culminate in the FAB Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July, with the FAB Superstars winners unveiled earlier during the conference.
Founded in 1999, BTA operates global-standard food & beverage services across 16 airports in Türkiye, Georgia, Macedonia, Tunisia, Oman, Latvia, Croatia and Kazakhstan. The company also operates its Cakes & Bakes production facility, manages a hotel, offers in-flight and passenger lounge catering, and travel retail services.
BTA Food & Services CEO Baha Bülbül said, “We are pleased to sponsor FAB once again and support this leading event celebrating outstanding achievements across our industry.”
The FAB 2026 edition marks the event’s 15th anniversary and, for the first time, will embrace the new ‘Airport Hospitality World’ title, dedicated to lounges and all related airport hospitality services.
Besides lounges, hotels, Meet & Greet, concierge services and more, FAB 2026 will also include a historic inclusion element, inspired by Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru’s recent introduction of a pioneering Sensory Room, a thoughtfully designed space tailored for neurodivergent passengers and individuals with sensory sensitivities.
The full speaker programme will be announced in the coming weeks.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
The Moodie Davitt Report is the leading international information source on India’s travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenue sectors. All stories are archived permanently in our India newsroom (accessed via the regional section on our home page drop-down menu). We are also proud to have launched India Curated, the newest addition to our hugely successful collection of market- or sector-specific newsletters. To advertise, please contact Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. To subscribe free of charge, please email Kristyn Branisel at Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
Don’t miss out: Entry deadline fast approaching for FAB Awards and FAB Superstars
INDIA. The Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Awards and FAB Superstars Awards continue to build momentum, with entries encouraged as the 10 April submission deadline nears.
Nominations may now be submitted through our dedicated website until the closing date.
The FAB Awards mark the culmination of The Moodie Davitt Report’s Airport FAB + Hospitality Conference, taking place 7-8 July in Bengaluru.
Hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited, the 2026 edition marks the event’s 15th anniversary and, for the first time, will embrace the new ‘Airport Hospitality World’ title, dedicated to lounges and all related airport hospitality services.
FAB Superstars winners will be announced during the conference, while recipients of the FAB Awards will be revealed at the Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July.
The Airport FAB + Hospitality Conference & Awards encompass all aspects of airport food & beverage, lounges and related hospitality services.
As announced in May, FAB 2026 will extend its reach beyond lounges to include hotels, Meet & Greet, concierge services and other hospitality touchpoints, recognising their integral role in shaping the overall airport experience.
From beautiful Barcelona to vibrant Bengaluru: At the FAB 2025 handover ceremony, Bangalore International Airport Limited Vice President of Commercial Development, Pravat Paikray (left), accepted the hosting rights for FAB 2026 from Barcelona-El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport Managing Director Eva Valenzuela (second right). As part of the ceremony, Paikray honoured Valenzuela, along with The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie and President Dermot Davitt, with traditional garlands from Bengaluru.
The event will also feature a landmark inclusivity initiative inspired by Kempegowda International Airport’s pioneering Sensory Room, a purpose-built space designed to support neurodivergent passengers and travellers with sensory sensitivities.
The prestigious FAB Awards also honour those who have made a positive impact through Environmental, Social and Governance initiatives.
All entries will be assessed by an independent panel of judges comprising relevant experts and professionals.
The eligibility period is from 1 March 2025 to 28 February 2026. Full details about each category, submission requirements and assessment criteria are available via the dedicated website.
For the FAB Awards, a nominal fee of US$249 per submission is payable via the portal.
For the FAB Superstars, a nominal fee of US$99 per submission is payable via the portal.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Head of Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
Early Bird registration opens for Airport FAB + Hospitality Conference & Awards 2026
INDIA. Registration has opened for the eagerly anticipated Airport FAB + Hospitality Conference & Awards 2026, taking place on 7-8 July in Bengaluru.
Delegates can access the registration portal via the dedicated website.
An Early Bird delegate pass for US$1,500 is available until 30 April, with the standard registration fee rising to US$1,700 after the deadline. As part of our commitment to industry engagement, airport delegates are eligible for an attractive -50% discount on both the Early Bird and regular registration fees.
Hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited, the 2026 edition marks the event’s 15th anniversary and, for the first time, will embrace the new ‘Airport Hospitality World’ title, dedicated to lounges and all related airport hospitality services.
From beautiful Barcelona to vibrant Bengaluru: At the FAB 2025 handover ceremony, Bangalore International Airport Limited Vice President of Commercial Development, Pravat Paikray (left), accepted the hosting rights for FAB 2026 from Barcelona-El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport Managing Director Eva Valenzuela (second right). As part of the ceremony, Paikray honoured Valenzuela, along with The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie and President Dermot Davitt, with traditional garlands from Bengaluru.
The Moodie Davitt Report event will encompass all aspects of airport food & beverage, lounges and related hospitality services.
As announced in May, FAB 2026 will extend its reach beyond lounges to include hotels, Meet & Greet, concierge services and other hospitality touchpoints, recognising their integral role in shaping the overall airport experience.
The sensory room in Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru Terminal 2 provides a calming, engaging and therapeutic environment for travellers with sensory sensitivities
The event will also feature a landmark inclusivity initiative inspired by International Airport’s pioneering Sensory Room, a purpose-built space designed to support neurodivergent passengers and travellers with sensory sensitivities.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Associate Director, Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
Call for entries: FAB Awards and FAB Superstars Awards submissions open with 10 April deadline
INDIA. The Moodie Davitt Report is pleased to announce that submissions are now open for the highly anticipated Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Awards and FAB Superstars Awards.
Nominations may now be submitted through our dedicated website until the closing date of 10 April.
The FAB Awards will serve as the culmination of The Moodie Davitt Report’s Airport FAB + Hospitality Conference, taking place on 7-8 July in Bengaluru.
Hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited, the 2026 edition marks the event’s 15th anniversary and, for the first time, will embrace the new ‘Airport Hospitality World’ title, dedicated to lounges and all related airport hospitality services.
From beautiful Barcelona to vibrant Bengaluru: At the FAB 2025 handover ceremony, Bangalore International Airport Limited Vice President of Commercial Development, Pravat Paikray (left), accepted the hosting rights for FAB 2026 from Barcelona-El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport Managing Director Eva Valenzuela (second right). As part of the ceremony, Paikray honoured Valenzuela, along with The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie and President Dermot Davitt, with traditional garlands from Bengaluru.
FAB Superstars winners will be announced during the conference, while recipients of the FAB Awards will be revealed at the Awards Ceremony during the Gala Dinner on 8 July.
The Airport FAB + Hospitality Conference & Awards encompass all aspects of airport food & beverage, lounges and related hospitality services.
As announced in May, FAB 2026 will extend its reach beyond lounges to include hotels, Meet & Greet, concierge services and other hospitality touchpoints, recognising their integral role in shaping the overall airport experience.
The event will also feature a landmark inclusivity initiative inspired by Kempegowda International Airport’s pioneering Sensory Room, a purpose-built space designed to support neurodivergent passengers and travellers with sensory sensitivities.
The sensory room in Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru Terminal 2 provides a calming, engaging and therapeutic environment for travellers with sensory sensitivities
The prestigious FAB Awards also honour those who have made a positive impact through Environmental, Social and Governance initiatives.
All entries will be assessed by an independent panel of judges comprising relevant experts and professionals.
FAB Awards 2026 categories:
Airport ‘Food to Go’ Offer of the Year
Airport Bar or Pub of the Year
– Airport < 20M passengers
– Airport ≥ 20M passengers
Airport Casual-Dining Restaurant of the Year
– Airport < 20M passengers
– Airport ≥ 20M passengers
Airport Coffee or Tea Shop of the Year
Airport Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiative of the Year
Airport Food & Beverage Best New Digital Innovation
Airport Food & Beverage Marketing Campaign of the Year
Airport Food Hall of the Year
Airport Health and Wellness-Centred Offer of the Year
Airport Instagrammable Location of the Year
Airport Lounge Food & Beverage Offer of the Year
Airport Lounge of the Year
Airport Lounge Opening of the Year
Airport Restaurant Design of the Year
Airport Sustainability & Environmental Initiative of the Year
Airport Food & Beverage Offer Best Representing Sense of Place
Airport Food & Beverage Opening of the Year
Airport Food & Beverage Offer of the Year
The eligibility period is from 1 March 2025 to 28 February 2026. Full details about each category, submission requirements and assessment criteria are available via the dedicated website.
For the FAB Awards, a nominal fee of US$249 per submission is payable via the portal.
For general enquiries on FAB, please contact Vincci Chung, Associate Director, Events at Vincci@moodiedavittreport.com.
Out now: Leading Indian data management solutions company Voiceback Analytics has partnered with The Moodie Davitt Report on a major new study of Indian global travellers’ shopping habits. To ensure rich and actionable insights, Voiceback Analytics conducted 1,000 interviews at major international airports across India with fieldwork and analysis conducted in June, July and August 2025. To order a copy of the report or for more details, please email Irene Revilla at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com.
AIRPORT INCLUSIVITY WORLD
This story forms part of our Airport Inclusivity World coverage, the latest addition to our diverse, market-leading travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenues content.
Airport Inclusivity World embraces a wide array of key subjects including airport Accessibility, Diversity, Equity, Inclusivity and Mobility.
With the World Health Organization estimating that 1.3 billion people – about one in six worldwide – experience significant disability, we see this subject as a key element in our world-leading passenger experience content.
More widely, we regard airports as a crossroads of humanity, gateways of the world that theoretically are unshackled by class, cultural, racial, religious, gender, age, nationality or sexual orientation barriers. We feel a deep commitment to and responsibility for championing and advancing that status.
Keep an eye out for our Airport Inclusivity World LinkedIn newsletter, coming soon.
Read the permanently archived website stories from our Airport Inclusivity World coverage here.
Please send relevant material, including images, to Martin Moodie at Martin@MoodieDavittReport.com for instant, quality global coverage.
Mitti Café Founder & CEO, the inspirational Alina Alam, to deliver FAB keynote speech in Bengaluru
The irrepressible Alina Alam, founder not just of an extraordinary food & beverage chain but also a movement
INDIA. Alina Alam, Founder & CEO of Mitti Café in India, will be a keynote speaker at The Moodie Davitt Report’s Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference and Awards to be held in Bengaluru on 7-8 July 2026, hosted by Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru.
Mitti Café is part of Mitti Social Services Foundation, a wonderful social enterprise dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing them with opportunities for economic independence and dignity.
Mitti Social Services Foundation creates employment by hiring and training team members in its cafés across airports and other public institutions. The first Mitti Café was opened at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR), a breakthrough that has led to other airport openings, including two more at BLR.
At the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Awards in Ontario, California, Alina Alam and Bangalore International Airport Limited were awarded the FAB Humanitarian Award for their joint initiative. Alina Alam was also named one of The Moodie Davitt Report’s People of the Year for 2024.
FAB Founder, The Moodie Davitt Report Chairman Martin Moodie, said, “We are so honoured to have Alina grace FAB 2026 as a keynote speaker. Alina started Mitti Café at just 23 with a powerful dream: to show the world the magic of abilities, not the supposed limitations of so-called disability.
“I first heard her speak during a Bangalore International Airport Limited workshop in June 2024 and like everyone in the room was deeply moved by Alina’s guts, courage, compassion and unwavering determination to make a difference. Her dream has come true but she is far from finished yet as the FAB audience will discover.
“Alina is a role model for compassion and inclusion in our industry and I am sure that delegates to FAB 2026 will be both moved and insipired by her presence and passion.”
Alina Alam: “People with intellectual disabilities may be slow but they are perfectionists in whatever they do. Their strength lies in doing everything from the heart. They think from their heart and act from their heart.”
How Mitti Café is making a difference all across India
Click on the image to open our recent FAB eZine, which celebrates the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards held in Barcelona on 25-26 June
Dates confirmed for Airport Food & Beverage + Hospitality Conference and Awards 2026
INDIA. The Moodie Davitt Report is delighted to announce that the 2026 Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference and Awards will take place on 7-8 July in Bengaluru for another landmark edition, marking the event’s 15th anniversary.
Owned and organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, this year’s event will be hosted by Bangalore International Airport Limited.
Bangalore International Airport Limited CCO Kenneth Guldbjerg said, “Having experienced the energy and impact of FAB in past editions, we are proud to welcome the global airport F&B community to Bengaluru for FAB 2026.
“This is an incredible opportunity for us to present BLR Airport as a destination driving new guest experience concepts and industry synergy, and we look forward to hosting an event that will inspire, connect and create lasting memories.”
The premier industry event will bring together top executives from airports, food & beverage concessionaires and hospitality service providers, as well as other business partners worldwide.
As reported, FAB will for the first time embrace our new ‘Airport Hospitality World’ title dedicated to lounges and all related airport hospitality services.
The sensory room in Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru Terminal 2 provides a calming, engaging and therapeutic environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities
Research in sensory regulation and occupational therapy indicates that even brief periods (15-30 minutes) in a calming, sensory-friendly environment can significantly alleviate feelings of being overwhelmed and enhance well-being, making travel smoother and more manageable
FAB 2026 will take on an extended form, featuring an exhibition and the ultimate one-stop airport hospitality and food & beverage conference and awards platform.
Besides lounges, hotels, Meet & Greet, concierge services and more, FAB 2026 will also include a historic inclusion element, inspired by Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru’s recent introduction of a pioneering Sensory Room, a thoughtfully designed space tailored for neurodivergent passengers and individuals with sensory sensitivities.
The full speaker programme, featuring industry-leading voices, will be announced in the coming weeks.
Please email Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com for your complimentary subscription.
One of the world’s most successful multi-media business-to-business publishers