Houston Airports earns top national honors for concessions excellence

In an industry where food, retail and hospitality shape the passenger journey long before wheels leave the runway, Houston Airports just raised the bar.

At the 2026 Airport Experience Conference, the Houston Airports concessions program at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) earned two of the industry’s highest honors in the medium and small airport category:

• Airport with the best overall concessions program — William P. Hobby Airport
• Airport with the best commercial team — William P. Hobby Airport

The awards were announced Feb. 25 during the AX Awards ceremony in Nashville, where members of the Houston Airports Concessions team accepted the honors.

The concessions program at Hobby Airport includes prime concession partners Areas, LaTrelle’s Galley, Hudson (Avolta), HMSHost, Paradies Lagardère and Smarte Carte.

The recognition affirms something passengers at HOU already feel: thoughtful planning, strong local partnerships and a commercial strategy built around experience. “This recognition belongs to our entire concessions team and our partners who show up every day committed to quality and hospitality,” said Francisco Cuellar, chief commercial development officer for Houston Airports. “At Hobby Airport, we’ve been intentional about creating a program that reflects Houston’s flavor, supports local businesses and elevates the passenger experience from curb to gate.” The wins reflect years of strategic redevelopment at HOU, where Houston Airports has focused on curating local brands, enhancing customer service standards and strengthening collaboration between airport leadership and concessionaires. Concessions partners also received national recognition:

• Best bar experience — medium and small airports: The Rustic by LaTrelle’s at HOU
• Best overall retailer — small operators: Cediel Concessions Management at IAH

For passengers, that translates into something tangible: authentic Texas hospitality, chef-driven menus, distinctive retail and an atmosphere that feels less like a layover and more like a welcome. The Airport Experience Conference brings together airport operators, brands and industry leaders from across North America to spotlight innovation in food, beverage and retail inside terminals. Awards are based on industry voting and peer recognition. As passenger traffic continues to grow and Houston prepares to welcome soccer fans from around the world, the concessions strategy remains clear: make passengers happy, invest in partnerships, and build platforms for future success. Travelers passing through HOU are encouraged to arrive early and explore the award-winning offerings. Common Bond Bistro and Bakery and Landry’s Seafood House will be the latest local favorites to open at HOU later this year.

EXPLORE: Dining Options at HOU EXPLORE: Dining Options at IAH