Mar 15, 2019

HMSHost Approved for 10-Year $147M Contract at Indianapolis International Airport

IND travelers to get new Shake Shack, Indiana Pacers Basketball venue, Beer Garden and more

INDIANAPOLIS (March 15, 2019)–The Indianapolis Airport Authority approved global restaurateur HMSHost today to operate 10 Indianapolis International Airport (IND) dining locations under a 10-year contract valued at approximately $147 million. HMSHost’s new dining locations with Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) program partners VDV Concessions and Diversified Concessions Group will deliver the spirit and excitement of the Hoosier state to the airport.

“We are truly excited to create a reflection of Indianapolis in the airport through authentic dining experiences,” said HMSHost President & CEO Steve Johnson. “HMSHost thanks the Indianapolis Airport Authority and is proud to have this opportunity to serve its travelers with some of the most innovative and popular local and national brands that people love, including Indianapolis’ first Shake Shack restaurant.\"

‘One of a KIND’ new restaurants slated to start opening in 2019 include:

Indiana Pacers Courtside Club is a celebration of the rich tradition and history of Indiana basketball, capturing the passion and devotion Hoosiers have for their hometown NBA team, the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers Club in IND’s Civic Plaza will feature a stunning lounge inspired by luxury suites and the LightBound Courtside Club at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, a showcase pop-a-shot basketball game, and Pacers memorabilia. The elevated menu connects travelers to the team by featuring favorite dishes of legendary Pacers players.

Circle City Beer Garden, named for to the city of Indianapolis’ nickname, will deliver Indiana’s vibrant and growing craft beer scene to visitors in an outdoor-themed taproom. Guests in Civic Plaza will have the chance to try Indiana-made craft beers with a menu that offers tapas style shareable appetizers like house popcorn and hand-crafted sandwiches with several dishes featuring the famous local charcuterie company, Smoking Goose, the Dorman Street meatery located in downtown Indianapolis.

Shake Shack is a critically acclaimed, modern day “roadside” burger stand known for its 100% all-natural Angus beef burgers, chicken sandwiches, griddled flat-top dogs (no hormones or antibiotics – ever), fresh-made frozen custard, crispy crinkle-cut fries, and more. A fun and lively community gathering place with widespread appeal, Shake Shack has earned a cult-like following around the world. Located on Concourse B but accessible to any ticketed passenger, travelers visiting IND are all set for access to Indiana’s first Shake Shack location.

Ben’s Soft Pretzels is the Indiana-based company whose passionate fans call the handcrafted jumbo soft pretzels the “World’s Best Soft Pretzel” thanks to a secret Amish-inspired recipe. With an accessible location on both Concourses A and B, travelers will be able to enjoy Ben’s fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth taste that people can’t get enough of with a variety of choices ranging from breakfast pretzel roll sandwiches, pretzel dogs, and satisfying combo meal options—which all go well with Ben’s 11 gourmet dipping sauces.

Starbucks® Coffee is the global leader in gourmet coffee, with inviting stores that provide a comforting place to refresh with one of their signature beverages, baked goods, sandwiches, and snacks– all the things that travelers crave. HMSHost will operate four Starbucks® stores under the new plan, on Concourses A and B, Civic Plaza, and in Baggage Claim.

Circle City News will adjoin Starbucks in Baggage Claim for a free-flowing shopping experience to showcase Indianapolis merchandise along with retail convenience items for meeters/greeters on the go.