USA. Tampa International Airport has opened three new concessions, including a sports lounge part-owned by baseball player Evan Longoria.
Ducky’s is operated by SSP America and is located in Airside A. It is joined there by a Paradies Lagardère-operated CNBC News outlet. The third concession is a Starbucks at Airside E operated by HMSHost, the second of five expected to open at the airport.
“These three newest concessions bring the perfect mix of local flavour, high quality and recognisable brands,” said Tampa International Airport CEO Joe Lopano. “The sleek, attractive design of all three really adds to the aesthetics of our Airsides and will be popular stops to eat, drink, grab a cup of coffee or a pastry and shop for gifts or magazines.”
Ducky’s is modelled on the south Tampa restaurant of the same name, and features its signature giant rubber duck and serves a full food and liquor menu. Outlets and USB ports are located along the bar so that travellers can charge their electronic devices. The restaurant has been designed with graffiti artwork by the St. Pete-based artist known as Bask.
Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Longoria attended the grand opening of the sports lounge on 27 May. “The duck is landing at Tampa International and we couldn’t be more honoured and excited to be part of all the innovative changes at the airport,” he said. “Ducky’s food, craft beer and cocktail menu and game watching environment will most certainly provide travellers with a reason to get to the airport early.”
SSP America Chief Executive Officer Michael Svagdis said the restaurant would become a “destination in its own right”. The company will also open a Hard Rock Café and other food & beverage offerings at the airport later this year.
Paradies Lagardère’s CNBC News outlet will serve grab-and-go foods after the company partnered with Tampa bakery Alessi Bakeries. A range of products, souvenirs and gifts that represent Tampa and the regional area will also be offered. It is the 115th CNBC-branded store to be opened in partnership with Paradies Lagardère.
Paradies Lagardère President and CEO Gregg Paradies noted that the company will also open further concessions at the airport, including Dylan’s Candy Bar, Spanx, PGA Tour, Tampa Bay Times, Hyde Park News and WFLA News Channel 8.
