Concessionaire Airmall USA, a subsidiary of airport operator Fraport, has appointed Ben Zandi (left) as president and CEO with immediate effect.
Zandi will oversee Airmall’s entire North American operations, including retail and food and beverage (F&B) concessions at Pittsburgh International Airport, Pennsylvania; Boston Logan International Airport, Massachusetts; Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, Maryland; and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, Ohio.
Charles Weinland, chairman of the board of directors of Airmall, said, “We are honored to have an accomplished business leader and innovator focused on our growth in North America and expanding our US footprint. Ben brings a depth of experience, tremendous energy and insight to our strategic vision. Our focus is on enhancing the customer and passenger ‘breakthrough’ experience at all of our airports. We and our airport partners are in excellent hands with Ben Zandi at the helm.”
Zandi said, “Fraport is a major international player with an impressive wealth of knowledge, talent and resources. I am passionately committed to positioning the Airmall brand for the 21st century as best in class by creating breakthrough services, products and experiences to serve the shifting customer base. It’s an exciting time.
“I am honored to be able to touch the community in a profound way with our partners at the airports and local and small business owners. This is a unique opportunity to create better airports and better communities.”
Zandi has more than 30 years’ experience in hospitality, business management and retail and restaurant development, having worked as executive vice president of operations for restaurant firm PGHC for more than three years, and as the owner and president of regional restaurant group Zanick for 12 years.
Written by Dan Symonds