Detroit Metro Airport: A Revamp of Retail and Dining
Detroit Metro Airport has undergone a major transformation in its retail and dining offerings, with the introduction of new businesses such as Corktown Place, Born in Detroit Kitchen + Bar, and The Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Company. This change is part of the airport’s effort to bring more diverse and local culture to the over 31 million travelers passing through its terminals annually.
The Wayne County Airport Authority, in collaboration with hospitality management company Delaware North, closely monitors traveler interest to shape their retail strategy. They observe trends in the terminals and make decisions on new concepts to keep things fresh and exciting for passengers. With the rise of online shopping, there has been a shift away from specialty retail and a focus on food, beverage, and coffee options instead.
To cater to the demand for local products, the airport has also tasked their vendors with highlighting local merchandise within their stores. This approach aims to provide a sense of place and represent Detroit’s unique culture. Additionally, the airport has shifted from large retail spaces to smaller stores, with some operating in as little as 300 square feet.
The airport has implemented a four-phase program to manage this transition, with the first two phases awarded in 2024 and the third phase awarded this summer. The fourth and final phase will focus on additional food and beverage options. Currently, there is about 13,000 square feet of available retail space in the McNamara Terminal.
Among the recent additions are Born in Detroit Kitchen + Bar and The Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Company, which opened in the McNamara Terminal earlier this month. Born in Detroit offers Michigan-inspired dishes and cocktails, while The Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Company serves specialty brews from a local roaster. Both companies also have locations in downtown Detroit.
Other new arrivals include Cask & Craft Local Spirits + Bites, a bar featuring drinks from local distilleries, and Motown Greatest Hits Travel Shop, a store selling products from Detroit-based companies. The airport also welcomed Midwest-based Pizza Cat, which opened a kiosk in the terminal. These additions join well-known brands such as Wahlburgers and Starbucks, providing travelers with a mix of recognizable and unique options.
According to Neil Mittal, partner and managing director at L. E. K. Consulting, airports are evolving into destinations of commerce, offering food, retail, and experiences. They partner with concessionaires to bring in both national and local brands, and the contracts typically include a minimum rent and percentage of sales. With increased dwell time at airports, there is a need to keep travelers engaged, and airports are adopting technology to provide faster service, such as grab-and-go options, self-checkout, and mobile ordering.
To cater to the changing tastes of travelers, the airport is introducing new stores and revamping existing ones. Upcoming additions include local favorites such as Buddy’s Pizza and Detroit Vs Everybody, as well as a LEGO store.