Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is joining forces with the City of Austin's Small Minority Business Resources Department (SMBR) to launch Gateway 2 Concessions, a new prep series aimed at empowering small business owners with the knowledge to thrive in the airport concessions arena. This initiative is part of the airport's larger expansion endeavor known as the Journey With AUS program. With this venture, AUS is seeking out local enterprises that can add a dash of Austin's vibrant culture to the traveler's experience.
Ghizlane Badawi, AUS Chief Executive Officer, underscored the opportunities that this project opens up for smaller businesses, stating, "We’re building the future of AUS, and we want small businesses to help shape that future," according to a report by the City of Austin. Indeed, AUS is not just an airport; it's a bustling hub where over a million tacos and more than 100,000 pounds of brisket were sold last year alone, signaling the high traffic and sales potential for participating businesses.
The SMBR Director, Edward Campos, is inviting small, local, and diverse businesses to attend this prep series, highlighting that the workshops will provide valuable industry insights and help participants grow their confidence in becoming successful concessionaires at the airport. In a report by the City of Austin, Campos adds, "Our upcoming series gives small, local, and diverse businesses a valuable opportunity to gain insights into the Airport Concessions business from industry experts."
The Gateway 2 Concessions Prep Course Series is divided into three parts, starting with an online workshop on September 3 that covers the fundamentals of the Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) program. The second installment, taking place on September 10, requires in-person participation and will feature Cassandra Boseman, Principal Owner of ONE Enterprise Group, who will provide a behind-the-scenes glance into the operations of airport concessions. The final chapter, slated for September 17, focuses on business concepts and navigating revenue contracts effectively, ensuring a comprehensive understanding for all who attend.
With the AUS concessions program opening doors for small businesses to elevate their brands at one of America's fastest-growing airports, the forthcoming informational sessions emerge as a crucial stepping stone for those interested in capitalizing on this unique business environment. Business owners who aim to secure a spot in Austin's high-flying concessions scene are encouraged to register for the Gateway 2 Concessions prep series, bridging the gap between local entrepreneurship and international exposure.
