​For its May 2022 Forum, the Airport Restaurant & Retail Association (ARRA) welcomed two industry CEOs –Gregg Paradies of Paradies Lagardère and Michael Svagdis of SSP America. They discussed the industry recovery from the pandemic in the face of the new operating challenges of labor shortages, supply chains, and inflation. A common theme: the industry’s recovery is underway but remains a work in progress. Gregg and Michael also noted long-term positive impacts that came out of the pandemic: there is a greater degree of collaboration between airports and concessionaires, as well as a greater focus on the customer experience.

At its April 2022 Forum, the Airport Restaurant & Retail Association (ARRA) welcomed Matt Cornelius and Annie Russo of Airports Council International - North America to discuss how airports are faring in their recovery at the two-year mark of the pandemic. Matt and Annie discussed financial recovery, labor shortages, restoring full operations, and federal legislative priorities. Here are three takeaways: