Acquisition
United Concessions Group Acquires Four Dining Concepts at Cleveland Hopkins Airport
•February 13, 2026
0
Participants
Why It Matters
The acquisition deepens UCG’s market share in a key Midwest hub, driving revenue growth and reinforcing consolidation trends in airport concessions.
Key Takeaways
- •UCG adds four new airport dining brands.
- •Portfolio now includes six CLE locations, 11 total venues.
- •Acquisition strengthens UCG's presence in Northeast Ohio.
- •Existing staff and brand identities retained post‑sale.
- •Growth aligns with long‑term, responsible expansion strategy.
Pulse Analysis
Airport concession operators are increasingly consolidating to achieve scale, negotiate better vendor terms, and deliver consistent traveler experiences. UCG, a family‑owned ACDBE concessionaire, has leveraged its regional expertise to acquire four established concepts at Cleveland Hopkins, a high‑traffic gateway that serves over 13 million passengers annually. By integrating Shake Shack’s burger appeal, Petit Gourmet’s upscale quick‑service, Cantina Taqueria’s Mexican fare, and 800° Woodfired Kitchen’s artisanal pizza, UCG diversifies its menu portfolio while tapping into distinct consumer segments.
The transaction preserves the operational teams already embedded in each venue, a strategic move that minimizes disruption and retains institutional knowledge. Retaining brand identities ensures that loyal travelers continue to recognize and choose familiar concepts, while UCG can introduce cross‑promotional initiatives and unified loyalty programs across its 11‑venue network. Moreover, the acquisition creates incremental employment opportunities and supports local suppliers, reinforcing UCG’s commitment to community‑focused growth in Northeast Ohio.
Industry analysts view this expansion as a bellwether for the broader airport retail landscape, where operators seek to balance brand variety with operational efficiency. As airlines prioritize passenger satisfaction, high‑quality, diverse food options become a differentiator. UCG’s deliberate, responsible growth model positions it to capture a larger share of passenger spend, while its ACDBE status may unlock additional contracting opportunities at federal facilities. Looking ahead, the firm is poised to explore further acquisitions or joint ventures, potentially shaping the future of airport hospitality in the region.
Deal Summary
Cleveland-based United Concessions Group (UCG) announced the acquisition of four airport dining concepts – Shake Shack, Petit Gourmet, Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar, and 800° Woodfired Kitchen – from previous operator MERA at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. The deal expands UCG’s presence to six locations in CLE and 11 venues across its airport and arena portfolio.
Article
Source: Airport Experience News
UCG Acquires Four CLE Concepts
Cleveland-based United Concessions Group (UCG) has acquired four dining concepts at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE). Concepts purchased by UCG from previous operator MERA include Shake Shack, Petit Gourmet, Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar and 800° Woodfired Kitchen. The family‑owned ACDBE concessionaire owned by longtime Northeast Ohio resident Hayat Rababy now operates six locations in CLE and 11 venues across its airport and arena portfolio.
“This deal aligns with how we grow, intentionally, responsibly, and with a long‑term view,” said Rababy. “We’re grateful for the trust of our partners and excited to keep building right here in Cleveland, where my husband Joe and I started it all.”
“Cleveland Hopkins is where our story began, and this acquisition represents both growth and continuity,” added Spencer Shaw, executive vice president of UCG. “These are strong locations with teams already in place. Our focus is simple: support the team members, honor the brands, and deliver great food and hospitality to travelers.”
0
Comments
Want to join the conversation?
Loading comments...