Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Invites Local Businesses to Explore Concessions Opportunities

AUSTIN, Texas – Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) invites local business owners, entrepreneurs, restaurateurs, and retailers to attend two free Concession Industry Day events on November 4 and 5 to learn about upcoming business opportunities at the airport. Attendees will gain insight into future concessions opportunities, learn how to participate, and connect with potential business partners as AUS continues its historic expansion.

In the next few years, AUS will add more than 70,000 square feet of retail, dining, and passenger amenities as part of the ongoing Journey With AUS expansion program. AUS is the fourth-fastest-growing airport among large and medium hubs nationwide, with passenger seats increasing 39% since 2019, compared to an industry average increase of 5%. That growth presents new opportunities for businesses to reach an expanding customer base. Food service and retail concession sales per enplaned passenger increased by 3% from 2024 to 2025. In 2025 alone, travelers purchased 1.7 million tacos and 94,249 pounds of brisket at AUS, highlighting the demand for food and beverage options that reflect Austin's local flavors.

Both Concession Industry Day events are free to attend, and separate registration is required for each event.
 

Informational Webinar | Wednesday, November 4:

• 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. | Virtual
• Attendees will learn more about the Journey With AUS expansion program and upcoming concessions opportunities at the airport. 
• Register: Austin Airport Concession Industry Webinar

Networking Event | Thursday, November 5:

• 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. | In-Person
• Location: Hilton Austin Airport, 9515 Hotel Dr, Austin, TX 78719
• Attendees will have the opportunity to connect directly with airport leadership, concessionaires, and potential business partners. 
• Register: Austin Airport Concession Industry Networking Event

During the webinar, airport staff will provide guidance on how to do business at AUS, including leasing strategies, upcoming solicitation timelines, and steps businesses can take now to prepare. Representatives from Austin Small and Minority Business Resources will also share information on certification programs and resources available to small businesses.

“Local brands are the heart and soul of AUS, reflecting the creativity, culture, and authentic spirit that make Austin unique,” said Ghizlane Badawi, Chief Executive Officer of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. “As AUS doubles in size, we will continue to celebrate our local identity while introducing internationally recognized brands to deliver a world-class passenger experience.”

Upcoming Concessions Opportunities

Over the next three years, AUS anticipates releasing approximately two to three Requests for Concession Proposals (RFCPs) as different areas of the airport are developed or redeveloped. The first major opportunity is expected in early 2027, when AUS plans to release an RFCP for the future Concourse B.

This new concourse will feature 26 gates and four distinct zones for retail and concessions planning, creating opportunities for a variety of businesses to serve travelers. The solicitation is expected to remain open for multiple months, allowing interested businesses time to develop proposals and partnerships. Additional opportunities will follow as airport expansion and redevelopment projects progress.

How Business Can Participate

Businesses interested in operating at AUS have several pathways to participate and do not necessarily need to pursue an entire concessions package on their own. Opportunities may include partnering or subcontracting with an established prime concessionaire or joining forces with other businesses to pursue a package together. Businesses may consider forming a joint venture, LLC, or other business structure to submit a proposal as a team, provided they meet the minimum qualifications outlined in the solicitation.

AUS encourages interested businesses to begin preparing now, ahead of future solicitations. This includes evaluating their capabilities, identifying the opportunities that best align with their business, and building relationships with potential partners and prime concessionaires. Establishing these connections early can help businesses position themselves for future opportunities.

The airport's concessions program is supported by a range of experienced prime concessionaires and independent contractors. These partners collaborate closely with AUS to bring a mix of national brands and locally owned businesses into the terminal, with a continued focus on expanding opportunities for Austin-based vendors. Click here to explore the airport's current shopping and dining options.

For more information and resources about operating a concession at AUS, visit flyaustin.com/concession-opportunities.