TPA welcomes first concessions under new concessions redevelopment program

Tampa International Airport today celebrated the grand opening of the first two new concessions to open under the Airport’s redevelopment program.

Bay Coffee & Tea, a locally-based organic coffee shop, and Auntie Anne’s, the largest hand-rolled soft pretzel franchise in the world, opened today on Airside A.

“We are thrilled to welcome in these two new concessions options, and to begin to transform the food, beverage and retail options available at Tampa International Airport,” said Airport CEO Joe Lopano. “We think Bay Coffee and Auntie Anne’s will be a great fit and much appreciated by our passengers.”

These are the first of 65 new shops and restaurants coming to Tampa International Airport as part of the expansion, and the first of more than 30 that will open up this year. The new concessions options include a wider variety of choices than ever before, including more local brands. Roughly 40 percent of the food and beverages options are local, featuring such staples as Columbia, Cigar City, Ducky’s, RumFish Grill, Buddy Brew and the Café by Mise en Place. Participation in the Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) increased from three companies to 15.

The Bay Coffee & Tea Company – a minority-owned and ACDBE business – was founded in 2004 by Herb Colvin in Tampa and features products that promote organic, fair trade coffees and teas. Colvin started as a vender in a small farmer’s market in Dunedin before opening his first retail store.

“I look forward to working with our joint venture partner, Hojeij Branded Foods, and I am excited about introducing my organic coffee to visitors and locals as they travel through Tampa International Airport,” said Colvin.

Auntie Anne’s is one of the most popular snack options in the world, annually selling 95 million pretzels in 46 states and 25 countries. Their menu features up to 13 varieties of pretzel, ranging from sweet to savory. Auntie Anne’s has partnered with Duomo Gelato, a Tampa-based operation that will bring freshly made gelato to customers. Duomo Gelato is family-owned and maintains a strict eye to quality using only premium ingredients.

“Auntie Anne’s Pretzels is a classic favorite for travelers looking for a quick, tasty snack on the go,” said Kevin Kelly, president of Delaware North travel hospitality. “We are proud to have them in the Tampa International Airport.”