New York, NY (Top40 Charts) The Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) today marked the transformation of the airport's dining concessions with a celebration highlighting the food and beverage brands that are quickly connecting with air travelers.
The festive post-opening celebration, which included menu tastings and a raucous bar christening by KISS co-founders
Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, is the culmination of a $6 million upgrade of ONT's food and beverage concessions with high-profile and popular brands including Einstein Bros bagels, Rock & Brews restaurant, Wahoo's Fish Taco and Wolfgang Puck's WPizza. Simmons and Stanley are co-founders of Rock & Brews.
The new eateries have opened for business on a staggered basis since April. Cross Grain Brewhouse and Harvest & Grounds were the latest additions to begin service in July.
"Since the transition to local control less than two years ago, we have worked tirelessly to develop Ontario International Airport into Southern California's newest aviation gateway, and we have achieved much success in a short time," said Alan D. Wapner, president of the OIAA. "Month after month, passengers are choosing Ontario in increasing numbers and it is critical that we offer high-quality food and beverage options that help to create airport experiences.
"Working in collaboration with our concessionaire, Delaware North, we can deliver a dining experience that meets our customers' expectations with well-known, successful brands offering a wide variety of delicious menu items," Wapner added.
"We know these new dining options at ONT will resonate with guests because they offer both a taste of Southern California, and globally recognized brands that travelers love," said
Kevin Kelly, president of Delaware North's travel division. "Whether it's enjoying a fresh taco at Wahoo's Fish Taco, or taking in the exciting atmosphere of Rock & Brews, there is something for everyone."
The agreement with Delaware North is expected to generate net revenue of approximately $13 million over 10 years for the OIAA. Product prices charged to customers will not be more than 10% above the non-airport price for food and beverage, down from 18% under the previous concession agreement.
About Ontario International Airport: Ontario International (ONT) Airport is located in the Inland Empire, approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the center of Southern California. It is a full-service airport with nonstop commercial jet service to 18 major airports in the U.S., Mexico and Taiwan, and connecting service to many domestic and international destinations. There is an average of 64 daily departures offered by 8 air carriers. More information is available at www.flyOntario.com.
