DFW Opens First Convenience Store In A U.S. Airport

DFW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, Texas (May 6, 2004) – DFW continues to expand its industry-leading concessions program with innovative shops and programs designed to meet the changing needs of today's air traveler. Today, the Airport officially opened the DFW TravelMart in Terminal C, a one-stop convenience store that represents a new direction in airport shopping.

Featuring national and local brands at competitive prices, the store features the legendary barbeque of Two Podners, a Dallas-based culinary institution. The 1,700-square-foot facility will not only cater to DFW's 57 million annual passengers, but also be a convenient stop for airline crews and airport employees who may need a quick shopping trip before heading home or on a break during their work schedule. Value meals are economically priced beginning at just $1.29.

"When our Board considers adding a new concept, we want to make sure the concessionaire has a good chance of succeeding and has a strong business plan that emphasizes choice and convenience to our passengers," says Max Wells, DFW Airport Board Chairman. "We also want to make sure they are doing business with our own great businessmen and women here in North Texas. The DFW TravelMart is all of those things. It is a good idea, with a good plan, good business people and good local entrepreneurs."

The store features a full array of ready-to-travel items for the DFW traveler, including reading materials, health and beauty aids, and food and beverages.

"At DFW, we pride ourselves on being a smart business and bringing our customers and travelers better choices and options to improve their entire Airport experience," says Jeff Fegan, DFW CEO. "We will continue to look at new concepts that make the entire trip easier for road warriors, leisure travelers and families."

"DFW TravelMart is the first full-scale airport convenience store in a U.S. Airport and would not have been possible without the extraordinary vision of the Airport," stated Gregg Paradies, Senior Vice President and CEO of The Paradies Shops. "The most exciting part of this store is the incredible reaction we have already received from both the traveling public and the airport employees, many of whom thank us for opening this store and ask if we can roll this out across the country." 

Today's grand opening ceremony also featured a sampling of Two Podners barbeque for travelers. Two Podners, a Dallas-based’ “Texas traditional” barbeque establishment in business for 22 years, will now deliver its legendary chopped beef sandwiches for travelers heading to more than 160 destinations from DFW.

"Wow! is the word we feel that best describes this convenience store with friendly greetings, great product and cool prices. We are excited about our partners, The Paradies Shops, with whom we joint ventured to bring this concept to the DFW Airport," says Fred Conwright, Senior Vice President of Two Podners, Inc.

Located halfway between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, DFW International Airport is the world’s third busiest, serving 54 million passengers a year. Offering nearly 2,000 flights daily, DFW Airport provides nonstop service to 136 domestic and 31 international destinations worldwide. For the latest news, real-time flight information, parking availability or further details regarding the many services provided at DFW International Airport, log on to www.dfwairport.com.

To arrange interviews contact DFW Public Affairs at 972 574 NEWS (6397) or Ken Capps, Vice President Public Affairs, kcapps@dfwairport.com.