INTERNATIONAL. The Moodie Davitt Report is back with the fifth full year of our popular column dedicated to recognising people in our industry – frontline, back office, logistics, management and more – for their commitment, kindness, professionalism and achievements.
The Travel Retail and F&B Superstars column is a key component in the lead up to this year’s Travel Retail Superstars Awards and FAB Superstars Awards.
If you’d like to nominate a team member, or team, for inclusion in this year’s Superstars column, please email Mark Lane at mark@moodiedavittreport.com or Martin Moodie at martin@moodiedavittreport.com.
Here, as a taster of things to come, are some of the industry’s superstars of 2025 and 2026.
10 July
Fraport Bulgaria team
As Fraport Bulgaria prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary, CEO Michael Reusch has chosen to mark the milestone by recognising the people whose leadership and commitment have shaped the company’s success over the past two decades.
Sharing reflections from the recent Fraport Group Executive Summit in Frankfurt in a LinkedIn post, Reusch highlighted a special group photograph (above) that brought together founders and early facilitators of Fraport Bulgaria, alongside current and former management and board members, as well as investment managers.
For Reusch, the occasion represented far more than an anniversary celebration. As he noted, the photograph captured “more than two decades of dedication, collaboration, vision and success”, recognising the collective efforts that have transformed Fraport Bulgaria and “laid the foundation for its continued development”.
8 July
2026 FAB Superstars Awards winners
Exceptional frontline and back-of-house employees in the world of travel food & beverage were honoured during the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference finale at the Taj Bangalore.
The FAB Superstars Awards, now in their sixth year, shine a spotlight on the remarkable frontline and back-of-house heroes who define our industry.
See the full 2026 FAB Superstars roll of honour here.
6 July
HMSHost team, New York LaGuardia Airport
As we have seen in this column over recent years, Jean Urbina, Director of Operations for HMSHost at New York La Guardia Airport, has made celebrating his team’s achievements a cornerstone of his leadership.
In a recent LinkedIn post, Urbina paid tribute to several colleagues whose commitment has helped set the standard during the first quarter of the year.
HMSHost Bartenders Katherine and Gustavo were recognised by Urbina for achieving more than 75% QR code adoption throughout the quarter, demonstrating how embracing new technology can enhance the guest experience.
Sous Chef Strato was honoured for providing invaluable support during new restaurant openings at nearby New York John F. Kennedy International Airport, while crew member Joseph earned special praise for maintaining equipment and restaurants to exemplary standards and proactively assisting managers with maintenance whenever needed.
Rather than focusing on results alone, Urbina highlighted the qualities that underpin sustained success.
“One of the things I like the most is to recognise those individuals that do their job with passion, commitment and integrity,” he wrote, adding that “we are better as a team because of what they do”.
His recognition also reflected the wider culture he has fostered at LaGuardia.
Describing the operation as “a team that takes every challenge and possible KPI and just crushes it”, Urbina expressed his pride in colleagues whose everyday contributions – whether serving guests, supporting new openings or working behind the scenes – help ensure operational excellence.
4 July
Areas Worldwide Challenge winners and the Areas USA team
Recognition is at its most meaningful when it creates lasting memories, and global travel restaurateur Areas has done exactly that through its Worldwide Challenge programme.
Designed to celebrate high-performing colleagues, the global internal initiative rewards outstanding performance, commitment and contributions to guests, teams and the wider business.
This year’s winners were recognised with an unforgettable trip to Miami and Atlanta, bringing together colleagues from across Areas’ international business units.
Beyond celebrating individual achievement, the experience gave participants the opportunity to build relationships across borders, exchange ideas and gain a broader understanding of the global business.
Highlights included visits to the Areas USA office, the Coca-Cola headquarters and the chance to experience the excitement surrounding the FIFA World Cup 2026.
In announcing the initiative, Areas congratulated all the winners and participants, describing the programme as a celebration of colleagues who “go above and beyond” in their daily roles.
The company also paid special tribute to the Areas USA team – and in particular Kimberly Condon, Michele Garcia and George Garcia – for their efforts in organising an experience that participants are unlikely to forget.
1 July
Areas Italy and Portugal teams
Before the summer travel rush gets into full swing, few things matter more than visible leadership – and Oscar Vela, CEO of global travel restaurateur Areas, has demonstrated exactly that through a series of visits to the company’s operations in Italy and Portugal.
Vela spent time with frontline teams across airports, railway stations and motorway locations, reinforcing the importance of staying close to the business at one of the busiest and most critical periods of the year.
His visits provided an opportunity to align priorities, assess operational readiness and, most importantly, recognise the people whose efforts will shape millions of travellers’ experiences over the summer months.
What impressed Vela most, according to his LinkedIn post, was the consistency and commitment displayed across both countries. As he noted: “What stood out to me most was the consistency, energy, and sense of ownership I found across both countries.”
He highlighted a common culture of teamwork, ownership, attention to detail and operational excellence – qualities that are essential when passenger volumes rise dramatically.
Vela added: “Together, we continue to revitalise the travel hospitality experience.”
29 June
Dubai Duty Free Customer Service Assistant Denzil Gomes
Continuing our series profiling The Moodie Davitt Report’s Travel Retail Superstars Awards 2025 winners, we speak to Dubai Duty Free Customer Service Assistant Denzil Gomes.
Recognised in the Star Individual Middle East & Africa – Shop Floor, Customer Facing category, Gomes reflects on the power of empathy, the importance of human connection in a fast-paced airport environment and why choosing compassion over convenience can leave a lasting mark on a traveller’s journey.
Read the interview here.
27 June
Starboard Group Senior Director Logistics Robert Toval
In June, cruise retailer Starboard Group celebrated an extraordinary achievement as Senior Director Logistics Robert Toval marked 35 years with the company.
According to Starboard, over more than three decades, Toval has played “an important role in supporting teams, strengthening the business and helping create the experiences that define the company today”.
Paying tribute to his achievement, Starboard Group expressed its gratitude for the “hard work, positive influence and unwavering support” Toval has brought to the business throughout his journey.
25 June
The Moodie Davitt Report Chief Sub-Editor Leanne Farnell
Our exceptional Moodie Davitt Report team member, Chief Sub-Editor Leanne Farnell was been recognised by our parent company Mark Allen Group for her outstanding contribution through the company’s monthly Values in Practice (VIP) Awards.
The VIP Awards is a peer-led initiative celebrating employees who actively bring the organisation’s core values to life: Passionate, Creative, Nurturing and Fair.
Leanne emerged as one of the leading performers in this month’s awards, as she was recognised for a remarkable body of work that exemplifies values-driven excellence and an unwavering commitment to quality.
Read our story here.
22 June
EVERRICH Duty Free Customer Service Team
Continuing our series profiling The Moodie Davitt Report’s Travel Retail Superstars Awards 2025 winners, we spoke to EVERRICH Duty Free Sales Supervisor Pi Huang Chang and the EVERRICH Duty Free Customer Service Team.
Recognised in the Star Individual and Team in the Asia Pacific – Shop Floor, Customer Facing awards category, they discuss empathy in action, creating meaningful passenger moments and showcasing Taiwan’s warmth and hospitality to the world.
Read the interview here.
20 June
Lagardère AWPL long servers
Lagardère AWPL recently celebrated nine colleagues whose combined service represents an impressive 90 years of commitment to the business.
Recognising team members across Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Hobart, Christchurch and Queenstown, the company marked a series of significant career milestones, celebrating colleagues reaching five, ten and fifteen years of service.
Lagardère AWPL said, “The achievements reflect the many different roles that contribute to a successful travel retail operation – from managing complex airport store planning and supporting warehouse operations to delivering exceptional customer experiences on the retail floor.
“Together, these colleagues represent the expertise, loyalty and passion that help drive Lagardère AWPL forward.”
Describing the team as “the heart and soul of our travel retail journey”, Lagardère AWPL expressed its gratitude for the commitment and energy that each milestone achiever brings to airports and workplaces every day.
17 June
Montenegro Duty Free HR Manager Ivana Vavic Milic
Kicking off a series in which we profile The Moodie Davitt Report’s Travel Retail Superstars Awards 2025 winners, we speak to Montenegro Duty Free HR Manager Ivana Vavic Milic (winner of our Humanity, Leadership & Inspiration – Back Office Award) about people-first leadership, compassion and the power of culture in the duty-free industry.
Read the interview here.
16 June
WHSmith UK travel teams
For Andrew Harrison, CEO of WHSmith UK, the company’s annual conference was about much more than reviewing performance or preparing for the busy summer season. It was an opportunity to celebrate the people and partnerships that keep the business moving every day.
Bringing together colleagues, supplier partners and stakeholders from across the business, the event recognised the efforts of store teams serving customers in airports, railway stations and other high-footfall locations, before culminating in an awards ceremony honouring those who have delivered exceptional standards over the past year.
Reflecting on the occasion, Harrison paid tribute to the colleagues at the heart of the business. “Having worked in airports for the last eighteen years, there is something about travel retail that continually keeps me inspired,” he said in a LinkedIn post.
“At the heart of that is our store colleagues, who have the pace, precision and consistency, under real pressure, to make every journey better for our customers.”
He also highlighted the importance of collaboration beyond the store teams themselves, noting that the conference demonstrated “what happens when great people work alongside great supplier partnerships, with clear shared goals. The right products, in the right place, at the right time.”
14 June
Hudson Director of Retail Operations, Tampa Carmen Grigoropoulos
Strong teams are built not only by welcoming new talent but also by recognising the contributions of colleagues as they embark on the next stage of their careers.
That spirit was evident at New York LaGuardia Airport, where Jean Urbina, Director of Operations for HMSHost, led a heartfelt farewell for long-time colleague Carmen Grigoropoulos.
Bringing together the wider Avolta team, managers and frontline employees, the gathering celebrated Grigoropoulos as she prepared to take up a new position as Director of Retail Operations with Hudson in Tampa, Florida.
Paying tribute to his colleague, Urbina acknowledged both her professional contribution and the strength of their longstanding working relationship. “You were a great partner all these years, even before the merger of our companies,” he said. “It was a pleasure working together.”
28 May
Hannah Tan, The Moodie Davitt Report
Dynamic Moodie Davitt Report team member, Brands Director Hannah Tan (pictured below), has been recognised by parent company Mark Allen Group for outstanding contributions through the company’s monthly Values in Practice (VIP) Awards.
Hannah was recognised for high-impact editorial and team-focused initiatives that exemplify values-led leadership.
Among her recent achievements are playing a central role in conceiving and delivering a major International Women’s Day editorial initiative titled Voices of Impact; and guiding a deeply sensitive internal initiative for travel retail industry cancer charity fundraising campaign #KickCancerThon, following the passing of our beloved colleague Sinead Moodie.
Read the details of Hannah’s latest great deeds here.
27 May
The Estée Lauder Companies’ Travel Retail West teams
A strong example of purpose-led teamwork and community engagement comes from The Estée Lauder Companies’ Travel Retail West teams, which recently united for a global Social Impact Day initiative spanning Europe, the Middle East and the Americas.
Led by Senior Vice President & General Manager, Travel Retail EMEA and Americas Umar Ansari, colleagues across multiple markets stepped away from their day-to-day responsibilities to support local causes and community projects.
In London and Miami, team members assembled prosthetic hands for people in need, while colleagues in the Middle East supported the Cup&Go initiative.
In Paris, volunteers partnered with a non-profit organisation that supports vulnerable women through wellbeing and beauty workshops designed to build confidence and self-esteem. Teams in Paris and Türkiye also took part in local clean-up activities.
Meanwhile, in Copenhagen, colleagues focused on spreading wellbeing and kindness through community activities, including flower distribution across the city, while US teams organised clothing donations for those in need. Other participants used the day to promote wellness and strengthen connections with family and loved ones.
Reflecting on the initiative in a LinkedIn post, Ansari highlighted the power of collective action and shared purpose across the organisation.
“It is a strong reminder of what we can achieve when we come together with purpose,” he said. “Thank you to everyone who participated – proud to be part of a team that is so passionate about making a difference.”
18 May
WHSmith’s Richard Aldridge and Heathrow Airport store teams
A strong moment of reflection and appreciation comes from WHsmith Senior Project Manager Richard Aldridge following the recent WHSmith Store Conference.
A few days after the event, Aldridge shared his gratitude at receiving the CEO Award alongside colleague, Retail Delivery Field Manager Ben Hamilton, describing the recognition as a deeply humbling experience in the context of a business filled with high-performing teams and individuals.
“To be recognised in a room full of so many brilliant people across the business was a real privilege, and something I’m hugely grateful for,” he noted.
The evening also saw recognition for WHSmith Heathrow store teams, who received the Chairman’s Award for their performance and contribution.
Aldridge paid tribute to colleagues across the operation, including Ricky, Manpreet, Brian, Alex, Anwar, Heath and Jake, alongside many others involved in delivering the result
Avolta South America team
Our congratulations go to the Avolta South America team after Argentina captured the company’s prestigious Avolta Star Award 2025 – Country of the Year accolade.
The recognition shines a light on the business’s achievements across entertainment, marketing initiatives and customer experience, underlining the strong collaborative culture that continues to drive the operation forward.
Writing on LinkedIn, Avolta Marketing & Digital Director South America Marcelo Rodriguez Milesi said the award represented “the commitment, creativity and passion with which we work every day to deliver the best possible experience to our passengers”.
He added, “Behind this recognition there are many people, ideas, challenges and countless hours of teamwork that make it possible to continuously raise the standard of our operation.”
Milesi also paid tribute to everyone who contributed to the achievement and to travellers who place their trust in the business on every journey.
“Our congratulations to the Argentina team on a richly deserved honour,” he said. “The commitment to creating memorable passenger experiences clearly continues to set a high benchmark across the region.”
16 May
Areas USA Chick-fil-A team, William P. Hobby Airport
Well done to the Areas USA Chick-fil-A team at Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport, which has earned a third Chick-fil-A Guardian of the Brand award.
The accolade highlights exceptional standards in food safety, cleanliness and operational execution – all areas where consistency matters every single day and where strong frontline culture is essential.
In announcing the achievement, the company described the award as a reflection of the “discipline, care and commitment” demonstrated by the team.
The company added, “Achieving it three times is a testament to consistency, accountability and a culture that refuses to compromise on standards.”
Areas also paid tribute to the employees behind the success, thanking team members whose efforts “protect the brand, serve our guests well, and set the standard for operational leadership”.
14 May
WHSmith Heathrow team members Saira and Nav
A fine example of the people-first culture that underpins airport retail success comes from WHSmith at Heathrow Airport, where two long-serving colleagues have been recognised for their remarkable dedication to customers and colleagues alike.
In a LinkedIn tribute, the business celebrated Saira and Nav, whose combined service in WHSmith Heathrow stores totals an impressive 57 years.
The company reflected: “Behind every great customer journey there’s something even more powerful – our people.”
That sentiment was brought to life through the story of the two colleagues, described as exemplifying the “passion, pride and commitment behind doing the right thing by our customers”.
The post also highlighted the wider spirit of collaboration across Heathrow, paying tribute to the many teams working across hundreds of companies to help deliver a positive passenger experience every day.
Heathrow Retail Director Fraser Brown said, “It’s people like Saira and Nav that make Heathrow the great airport it is.”
12 May
Dominica, HMSHost New York La Guardia Airport
HMSHost New York La Guardia Airport Director of Operations Jean Urbina has paid tribute to team member Dominica following the celebration of her five-year anniversary with the company.
Marking the milestone on LinkedIn, Urbina highlighted Dominica’s impressive progression from crew member to Shift Manager.
He praised Dominica’s contribution to the business, noting that her “level of commitment, work ethic and value to our team is so valuable that it is an honour to have her”.
Heathrow Airport retail team
A nice moment of team recognition shared by Heathrow Airport Retail Director Fraser Brown on LinkedIn following a light-hearted ten-pin bowling evening with colleagues from the airport’s retail team.
While Brown joked that the group’s bowling performances suggested they should “stick to travel retail rather than ten-pin bowling”, the message carried a much deeper appreciation for the people behind Heathrow’s retail success story.
The tribute followed Heathrow’s recent recognition as the world’s best airport for shopping in the Skytrax passenger ratings, alongside what Brown described as the “relentless innovation and evolution” of the airport’s retail offer.
“It’s an absolute privilege to work with these great people,” Brown noted.
10 May
ASUR Airports, various teams, Chicago O’Hare International Airport
A strong celebration of frontline excellence came recently from ASUR Airports on LinkedIn following its second annual ExtraORDinaries customer service awards at Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
The initiative brought together concession partners, employees and representatives from Chicago Department of Aviation in recognition of the individuals and teams helping to elevate the passenger journey across one of the world’s busiest airports.
In announcing the awards, ASUR noted: “Behind every outstanding airport experience is an exceptional team.”
The company paid tribute to the frontline employees whose hospitality, teamwork and operational excellence continue to set high standards throughout the airport environment.
Among those recognised were teams from Hudson, Areas, Dufry and several leading food & beverage brands operating at O’Hare.
“Your dedication is what makes O’Hare exceptional,” ASUR concluded.
Vanessa Cranford, SSP America
Congratulations to Vanessa Cranford following her election as Vice Chair of the Retail & Foodservice Professional Development Group within the International Association for Food Protection.
The achievement was warmly acknowledged by SSP America CEO George Mboya, who praised Cranford’s leadership and contribution to food safety across the SSP America business.
“Food safety isn’t a function at SSP America, it’s a responsibility we carry every day in thousands of moments across our airports,” Mboya wrote on LinkedIn, adding that Cranford leads that work “with rigour, integrity and a relentless commitment to protecting guests and supporting our teams”.
Mboya noted that, over the coming years, Cranford will help shape food safety best practices across the wider retail and foodservice industry through her progression from Vice Chair to Chair within the group.
“We’re grateful for your leadership and proud to see your impact recognised on this global stage,” he added.
9 May
Brian Kumrow, SSP America
SSP America President Operational Excellence, Commercial, Culinary & Marketing Amanda Busby has given a warm welcome and strong endorsement on LinkedIn to Brian Kumrow, the new Vice President of Culinary at SSP America.
Reflecting on time spent together over recent days, Busby highlighted not only Kumrow’s evident passion for food, but also his ability to connect culinary excellence with people, operational execution and commercial performance.
Busby noted that what stood out most was “how naturally he connects that passion to people, execution, and the business”.
Avolta North America team
A strong showcase of leadership and teamwork comes from Avolta, which has announced its 2025 Excellence Awards winners across North America, recognising outstanding performance across operations, duty-free and duty paid retail, and food & beverage.
The awards honour leaders and teams who are making a tangible difference across airports and travel hubs, from sustainability and collaboration through to coaching, development and consistently strong operational delivery.
Speaking about the recognition, HMSHost EVP, Chief Human Resources Officer Laura FitzRandolph highlighted the complexity and pace of airport environments, noting that “every day brings a new set of challenges – busy terminals, tight connections, operational surprises and thousands of travellers depending on our teams to deliver a great experience.”
She added that the stories behind each nomination reflect “the spirit of what we strive to create every day: environments where people feel seen, served, and valued”.
This year’s Operations Excellence Awards span multiple categories, with winners recognised across key locations, including Toronto Pearson International Airport, Tampa International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Miami International Airport, Ontario International Airport, Grand Central Terminal, Vancouver International Airport, Calgary International Airport and Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
From food & beverage to duty-free and duty paid retail, the awards underline the breadth of talent across the business and the importance of strong local leadership in delivering consistent standards in highly complex environments.
Our congratulations go to all this year’s winners.
15 April
HMSHost New York La Guardia Airport team
Good to report a powerful team achievement at New York LaGuardia Airport, where HMSHost’s team secured its fourth consecutive Excellence Award in its category for 2025.
Director of Operations Jean Urbina described the recognition as especially meaningful given challenges earlier in the year.
“This was quite an accomplishment on a year that didn’t start that well but turned into a great year,” he said.
The accolade, he stressed, reflects a collective effort across every level of the business.
“From the GMs and managers to every hourly employee, everyone gives their very best to our guests, our team and our company.”
Urbina also paid tribute to the wider leadership at HMSHost and Avolta for their trust, adding: “Thank you for allowing me to lead this amazing team – you made my job easier.”
Allresto team Munich Airport
The transformation of the Terminal 1 pier at Munich Airport to a vibrant culinary destination stands as a major milestone for the airport’s food & beverage division Allresto – and a powerful example of teamwork in action. Read our story on the unveiling here.
Managing Director Andreas Reichert used the moment to recognise the breadth of contribution behind the project in a LinkedIn post.
“Behind every great project there are great people,” he noted.
Reichert highlighted the extensive collaboration across planning, construction, operations, logistics, HR, IT and more, adding: “Your commitment, energy and quality standards have ensured that the idea became reality.”
He also singled out key contributors, including Munich Airport Head of Communications and Politics Andrea Rexer, SVP Commercial Activities Maria Dahlhaus and Vice President of Owners’ Representatives for Major Projects Katrin Hennig for special praise.
14 April
MMI & Emirates Leisure Retail long servers
A great story here from MMI and Emirates Leisure Retail, where 50 employees have been recognised after collectively amassing 455 years of service – spanning anniversaries from five to 25 years.
MMI and Emirates Leisure Retail CEO Tyrone Reid reflected on the significance of the achievement.
“It represents experience built together, loyalty earned over time and a great pride in being part of the business,” Reid said.
Among those recognised was Mathews Thomas, marking 25 years of dedication.
“His journey is a powerful reminder that organisations are shaped far more by the dedication of individuals than by any single decision or strategy,” Reid noted.
He also paid tribute to MMI Managing Director Mike Glen on his 20-year milestone, praising his “steady guidance, deep commercial insight and genuine care” over two decades of leadership.
10 April
Mohammed Marjan, TRSS Abu Dhabi
At Zayed International Airport, TRSS Abu Dhabi continues to underline the importance of recognising performance aligned with its core values.
The company, which operates duty free stores across perfumes, cosmetics, sunglasses and fashion jewellery, named Mohammed Marjan (pictured below) as Employee of the Month for January 2026.
The accolade reflects both contribution and mindset.
“For demonstrating our core value ‘Together we overcome challenges’,” the company said in LinkedIn post.
Marjan’s “exceptional attitude and continued excellence” were cited as key to the recognition.
TRSS Abu Dhabi added: “We’re proud to have you with us.”
8 April
SSP team, Ibiza Airport
SSP has delivered a significant step forward in the digitalisation of the guest experience at Ibiza Airport, combining mobile ordering with self-checkout technology in a high-traffic international setting.
For SSP Head of Digital Continental Europe and Nordics Niklas Ågerup, the project reflects both great vision and excellent execution. “What an incredible journey this has been, and what an outstanding effort from our team in Spain,” he said in a LinkedIn post.
He also highlighted key contributors including Ana Macías de Haro and Raquel Fernández Pérez from the SSP Norway team, adding: “This is how we bring together technology, operations and people to create real value.”
3 April
Sarah Kirkpatrick, Paradies Lagardère
Paradies Lagardère has paid tribute to Vice President Merchandising Sarah Kirkpatrick as she marks 25 years with the company – an anniversary that reflects both longevity and influence.
Since joining in 2001, Kirkpatrick has earned deep respect across the organisation.
“From the early days to now, her leadership and wisdom have been so appreciated,” the company said.
Her contribution, it added, extends well beyond her role: “She’s not just part of the story – she’s helped write it.”
24 March
HMSHost Finland team
Two new HMSHost food & beverage concepts – Dinner District and Brew’d – have opened at Helsinki Airport, enhancing the offer for passengers travelling through the Finnish gateway.
HMSHost Multi Unit Manager Linda Laitinen acknowledged the collective effort behind the launch. “I want to thank everyone involved in the project,” she said.
She paid particular tribute to her operations team, including Jerome Penaflor and Anh, describing them as “superstars”.
Located near gates 13 and 14, the outlets offer a broad menu spanning burgers, tacos, pinsas and beverages.
14 March
Shammi, HMSHost Shake Shack New York La Guardia Airport
At HMSHost’s New York La Guardia Airport concession Shake Shack, a commitment to exceptional service has been recognised through the achievements of Shammi, named Hospitality Champion following consistently strong guest feedback.
Director of Operations Jean Urbina highlighted her impact. “She is super sweet to all guests and goes the extra mile,” he said.
From offering dietary guidance to assisting passengers navigating the terminal, her approach reflects a deep-rooted commitment to hospitality, Urbina noted.
“Thank you for being a great ambassador… it is an honour to work with you,” Urbina added, alongside recognition of colleagues including General Manager John Hayworth.
22 February
HMSHost bar tenders, New York LaGuardia Airport
HMSHost New York Director of Operations Jean Urbina has highlighted the efforts of four bar tenders working in HMSHost concessions in New York LaGuardia Airport for their outstanding work encouraging customers to use QR code technology to make their orders and pay for them.
IL Viaggio’s Zuhey and Katherine and La Chula’s Gustavo and Millie each clocked more than 60% of their customers using the technology in January this year.
60% was the target for high achievers set by Urbina, as he aimed to get his teams improving in this area, with the percentage being as low as an average of around 20% during 2025.
Urbina told The Moodie Davitt Report that the dedication of his teams now has HMSHost concessions averaging over 30% of customers using QR Codes, and he has now raised the target to 40%.
The bar tenders hitting 60% in January each received a personalised mug with their restaurant logo, their names and the words “QR Code Champion’.
Urbina said: “Congratulations to the four winners Zuhey, Katherine, Gustavo and Millie. Thanks for taking the challenge and for leading the way. I’m proud of your hard work, and the hard work of the managers that are driving this – there’s no better feeling than achieving the goals.”
He added: “LGA has been a leader in our region in adopting the use of this technology not to save labour but to give guests control of their experience.”
20 February
Areas Concepts and Standards Director Mathieu Herrero
Congratulations to Areas Concepts and Standards Director Mathieu Herrero (pictured below), who has been named as Executive of the Year by Marcas de Restauración.
In explaining why he won, the Spanish restaurant brand association credited his style of leadership “that turns brand vision into global standards – and, above all, into flawless execution at every point of sale: the foundation for continuing to raise the bar in travel F&B.”
Areas said in a LinkedIn post: “The award also recognises the hard work of our team members and the long journey of our company. Congratulations, Mathieu, on this award, which shows your dedication and commitment to Areas.”
16 February
Delhi Duty Free store teams
Delhi Duty Free has given a shout out to its teams on LinkedIn to celebrate the annual Retail Employees Day.
Initiated by the Trust for Retailers and Retail Associates of India and the Retailers Association of India in 2011, Retail Employees Day is a major event aimed at recognising the contribution of millions of frontline retail employees.
Paying tribute to its staff, the company said: “Behind every great journey is a great retail team. Our people are the heart of every experience we create. From the first smile at dawn to the last traveller before departure, their energy, dedication and passion never fade.
“They don’t just sell – they craft moments, build memories and make every journey special.
“This #RetailEmployeesDay, we celebrate our everyday heroes who make Delhi Duty Free what it is – a place where travel meets warmth, service meets passion and every traveller feels at home.”
29 January
MMI & Emirates Leisure Retail long servers
MMI – Maritime and Mercantile International & Emirates Leisure Retail CEO Tyrone Reid paid a great tribute on LinkedIn to a group of “incredible” individuals who reached major long‑service milestone for the two companies, both major players in travel retail.
The group came together to be addressed and recognised by Reid, who spoke to them about his admiration for what they have contributed to the companies, across individual milestones ranging between and five and 30 years.
He said: “Collectively, they represent over 400 years of service. That’s an extraordinary number, but what stands behind it is even more meaningful: years of commitment, loyalty and genuine care for our business, our customers and each other.
Reid gave a special shout‑out to two outstanding individuals: Deepthi Gunasekera and Sasikumar Nair, who have clocked up 25 and 30 years with MMI, respectively.
Of the duo and others who have hit long service milestones, he added: “Deepthi, Sasi and every milestone achiever have played an enormous role in shaping our culture and building the success we’re proud of today. Their contributions and impact reach every corner of our organisation.
“To everyone who celebrated a milestone: thank you. Your passion, your character and the way you show up every day truly make a difference. I’m incredibly proud to stand beside you and celebrate these moments.”
31 December
Adrienne Campbell and Sonia Dixon, Heathrow Airport
Heathrow Airport has lauded two “exceptional colleagues”. Adrienne Campbell and Sonia Dixon – Heathrow VIP Liaison Officers – have been recognised in The King’s New Year Honours List, a prestigious recognition of extraordinary service and achievement across the UK.
Adrienne and Sonia (pictured above) – twin sisters from Berkshire – have each been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for their outstanding contribution to the aviation industry.
Heathrow Airport noted: “Since 1989, Adrienne and Sonia have been an indispensable part of our VIP service, playing a pivotal role in the terminal’s transformation into The Windsor By Heathrow this year – a £3 million (US$4 million) upgrade that sets a new standard for luxury travel.”
30 December
WHSmith store team, Sydney Airport
WHSmith Head of Business Development Real Estate New Zealand Cameron Gardiner spent a day working in-store at one of the retailer’s Sydney Airport locations recently as a self-serve checkout host.
Sharing the experience on LinkedIn, he said: “Getting back on the floor is the quickest way to reconnect with the engine room that makes our business run. Peak period energy, fast decisions, real customer questions and a front row seat to the full customer journey through the store.
“Big shout out to our team who keep things moving with a smile, even when the queues get hectic.”
28 December
Mitchell Braddy, SSP Australia & New Zealand
SSP Asia Pacific SVP Business Development Matthew Hill has given high praise to SSP Australia & New Zealand Senior Retail Systems Coordinator SSP Mitchell Braddy via a LinkedIn post.
Paying tribute, Hill said: “Starting in front service and working his way up to his current fancy title, his journey is a cracker. I’m not sure there is anything he hasn’t done over his time and his stories are next level.
“Known to many as Chim, his infectious smile, generous nature, jokes and puns, work ethic and commitment make him someone that everyone would want on their team.
“His volunteer work and community engagement with cricket and footy clubs speak to his character and there’s not many better people to have a drink with. A privilege to work with you big man.”
23 December
Malaysia Airports Commercial Team
Malaysia Airports Senior General Manager – Commercial Services Hani Ezra Hussin has been reflecting on a successful 2025 for the Malaysia Airports commercial team.
She said: “Our commercial reset reached a major milestone this year. We stabilised performance, strengthened the foundations and recalibrated the retail mix across terminals. But this is not the finish line. It is the starting point for what is next, a platform to keep growing, refreshing and adapting.
“To our commercial team, our partners and every retailer who has been part of the journey, thank you. The momentum we have built this year sets us up for an exciting 2026 as we prepare to refresh once again and continue staying in tune with our travellers.”
19 December
HMSHost design & construction team, various US airports
HMSHost Project Director Director of Design & Construction Nick Bunch took to LinkedIn to praise the work of his team on a series of US airport openings.
The openings included Shula’s Burgers and Hudson News (Fort Myers); Tre-Pizzeria and La Gloria Temp Bar (San Antonio); Starbucks (Miami); and 1877 & Co., St. John’s River, Mindworks, Sandhill and Fort Mellon (Orlando Sanford).
Bunch, who highlighted the contributions from Ron Stuart and Jeff Wohead in his team, said:“I’m incredibly thankful for everyone involved in making these openings happen. Too many people to name, but none of this would be possible without the support and collaboration of the aviation authorities, architects and engineers, contractors and our internal teams who keep this company running so well. Busy month. Big momentum. Great teamwork.”
3 December
HMSHost Il Viaggio team, New York LaGuardia Airport
HMSHost New York Director of Operations Jean Urbina has regularly featured in our column through the years, highlighting colleagues for their outstanding work. On this occasion he has picked four team members from the frontline of HMSHost’s Il Viaggio restaurant at New York LaGuardia Airport.
They are the recipients of a HMSHost ‘Above and Beyond’ Award, awarded to, in Urbina’s words, “team members that are always willing to do more to benefit the team and in many cases sacrificing themselves for the good of the team”.
In a LinkedIn post, Urbina said: “Thank You Hassan, Sabir, Dominica and Steven for all you do each and every shift, between these four team members is over 23 years combined of commitment to our great team. This is the key of retention and having a team that love to work for the organisation. Proud of you.”
Read the Travel Retail and F&B Superstars Column 2024 here.
Read the Travel Retail and F&B Superstars Column 2023 here.
Read the Travel Retail and F&B Superstars Column 2022 here.
Read the Travel Retail and F&B Superstars Column 2021 here.
