NORTH AMERICA. Airport F&B specialist Hojeij Branded Foods (HBF) has acquired leading airport wine bar and retail chain Vino Volo for an undisclosed sum.
Vino Volo will become a wholly owned subsidiary of HBF, with Vino Volo Founder Doug Tomlinson remaining as President.
“Combining the forces of HBF and Vino Volo is a natural fit for both companies,” said HBF CEO Regynald G. Washington. “Vino Volo believes as we do that modern travellers expect and deserve a high-end airport wine experience. Both organisations are widely recognised for operational expertise, top-notch guest service and a strong commitment to employees. As a result of this acquisition, HBF is now uniquely positioned to serve more guests in more cities than ever before.”
“We are delighted to join forces with HBF,” said Vino Volo CEO Doug Tomlinson, who founded the San Francisco-based company in 2004. “Like HBF, Vino Volo has experienced tremendous growth by delivering high quality and an exceptional experience. With our shared guest-centred culture, the two companies have achieved success by building unique, complementary strengths and assets. By now joining forces, we are confident that the combined company will see even greater growth.”
HBF Founder Wassim Hojeij added: “This acquisition is a continuation of our strategy of partnering with top brands and delivering a level of service and quality unparalleled in the airport industry. This also continues our goal of becoming one of the largest and the best airport food & beverage operators in North America.”
Vino Volo runs more than 40 locations at 32 airports across the region. Its outlets combine an upscale wine lounge, restaurant and boutique wine shop under one roof. Vino Volo also offers a Wine Club for enthusiasts and a loyalty programme for frequent guests.
Vino Volo is a previous winner of the Wine Bar of the Year award at the Moodie Davitt Report-organised Airport Food & Beverage Awards.
Atlanta-based HBF runs more than 70 restaurants and bars across 14 airports in the USA. Its portfolio includes over 40 national, regional and local brands that range from full service to fast casual and quick serve. HBF is a Morgan Stanley Private Equity Portfolio company.
