Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) is partnering with Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) Airports and Delta Air Lines to support local and minority businesses within its dining and retail offering at the new Terminal 3 at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
LAWA said the move reflected its commitment to diverse and inclusive airport concessions by including 22 minority business owners. The new programme is expected to achieve Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) participation of 43 percent for food and beverage and 36 percent for retail, outperforming goals set of 25 percent and 20 percent respectively.
“We’re excited to offer LAX guests a range of unique, locally-inspired experiences, while supporting the growth of remarkable businesses,” said Karim Webb, president, Board of Airport Commissioners.
“Today’s celebration is a testament to the power of diversity, inclusion and community engagement. These efforts are proof that our partnerships with URW and Delta Air Lines are not just about enhancing the travel experience, but prioritising and championing local and minority-owned businesses that reflect and showcase the best of Los Angeles.”
“As the international gateway to Southern California, LAX should reflect the vibrant diversity of Los Angeles, and this includes the dining and retail offerings available to our guests,” said John Ackerman, CEO, LAWA.
“Los Angeles World Airports is thrilled to celebrate the inclusivity showcased in Terminal 3 at LAX, and proud that this vision was realised by Angelenos and community members for everyone who travels through our airport.”
The new concessions include a mix of local establishments and celebrity-owned restaurants, as well as retailers offering travel essentials and unique gifts. Local brands include Alfred, Fat Sal’s, Homeboy, Native by Nyesha, and Yakumi.
“Today's celebration of LAX Terminal 3's new dining and retail offerings is a testament to LAWA’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment,” said Eboni Wimbush, president and CEO, Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC).
“By partnering with Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield and Delta Air Lines, LAWA not only elevated the passenger experience but also empowered local and minority-owned businesses, many of whom are AMAC members.
"With 22 minority business owners contributing to this dynamic new space, we’re proud of LAX exceeding its ACDBE participation goals and setting a new standard for airport concessions nationwide.”
IMAGE: LAWA