Session 4: $30-plus An Hour? Responding To Escalating Labor Challenges

Wages for employees in airport food & beverage and retail operations have increased significantly in recent years, with additional growth anticipated in the near future. In some jurisdictions, local governments have enacted living wage ordinances, mandating substantially higher pay for airport workers. These rising labor costs are creating mounting pressure on concessionaires, who must navigate the complex challenge of delivering high-quality service to travelers, ensuring fair compensation for employees, and maintaining financial viability. This panel will explore the current landscape and discuss strategies to address and mitigate these evolving challenges.

• 2:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
  • Part 1: The LAX Wage Battle
• 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
  • Part 2: Wage and Labor Challenges Throughout North American Airports

Part 1 Presenter: Nicholas Crews, CEO and Managing Partner, Crews & Affiliated Companies

Part 2 Moderator: Nicholas Crews, CEO and Managing Partner, Crews & Affiliated Companies
Part 2 Panelists: Carlos Bernal, Chief Executive Officer United States, Areas; Roxann Favors, Assistant Aviation Director, Chief Revenue Officer, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport; Benedict Ma, Director Passenger Retail Experience, Vancouver Airport Authority

General Session Room Sponsored by: Concessions International, LLC