Jul 11, 2016

HMSHost Extends Restaurant Contract at Norfolk International Airport

Win for industry leader will bring fresh dining options to travelers

NORFOLK, VA — Restaurant options for travelers at Norfolk International Airport are set to expand by 2017 as global restaurateur HMSHost, in partnership with FDY, Inc., has recently been awarded a contract extension valued at more than $63 million by Norfolk Airport Authority. HMSHost’s existing lease which started in 1999 at the airport is being extended an additional five years, taking the previous expiration term of June 2021 to June 2026 and the total future value of the contract to $113 million. HMSHost will open three new restaurants and will continue to operate seven existing restaurants.

“HMSHost has had a great partnership with Norfolk International Airport for many years and we are proud to be moving forward together to give travelers the best possible dining experience while in the airport,” said HMSHost Vice President of Business Development Bryan Loden. “We are excited to open some great new restaurants and continue operating some traveler favorites for years to come.”

“The Norfolk Airport Authority is pleased to extend our business relationship with HMSHost and we are excited about the additions and improvements that will be offered to our customers,” said Norfolk Airport Authority Executive Director Robert S. Bowen A.A.E.

New restaurants to be opened by HMSHost include The Local @ ORF, a gastropub that will incorporate products by local farmers and breweries in order to exhibit some of what the region has to offer. Additionally, travelers will be able to visit several market-like stations such as a carvery and salad station at the new ORF MKT, which uses fresh, all-natural, local, farm-grown sustainable products whenever possible to create market-fresh dishes. HMSHost has also teamed up with partner AB InBev to create a new restaurant called Here’s To Heroes, which was created to honor all branches of the United States military and those serving. The menu will feature beloved bar favorites with a variety of healthy options as well.

Under the new lease terms HMSHost will continue to operate the following restaurants that have been traveler favorites at Norfolk International Airport: Back Bay Bistro, James River Grille, Great American Bagel, Burger King, and the airport’s three Starbucks.