Caruso Affiliated CEO and Founder Rick J. Caruso today announced the creation of a new business venture to pursue airport retail opportunities and the appointment of John Cugasi as the company’s first Vice President for Airports to lead the effort. Cugasi served most recently as the Director of Concessions at Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport overseeing the lease management and development of the airport’s concessions program.
“Airports and cities across the country realize that they can’t simply take the customer for granted any longer and need to create a more inviting shopping and dining experience for the traveler. With travelers spending more time in terminals, airport authorities realize the financial value of offering something special because people are more willing to spend if you provide style, quality and service,” Caruso said. “We see an expanding opportunity in this market across the country and are confident that our expertise, commitment to quality and dedication to customer service are perfectly suited to provide airports just what they are looking for.”
Caruso Affiliated will begin immediately surveying airport opportunities around the country to develop and operate terminal retail areas. One of the first opportunities is likely to be in Los Angeles.
