A Houston-based management company has secured a multi-million-dollar deal to operate and manage 10 restaurants at the William P. Hobby Airport.
Black-owned Latrelle’s Management signed a 10-year contract with the Houston City Council for $334 million. According to Houston Public Media, this will bring 10 restaurants to the airport, to generate an estimated $73 million in sales and create 300 jobs.
“As the first and only 5-star airport in North America, it’s imperative that Hobby Airport continues to elevate the passengers’ experience through unique, diverse, and delightful culinary options,” Houston Airport System COO Jim Szesniask said in a statement. “Because Latrelle’s is rooted in Houston, I am confident that the variety of local, regional and national concepts will raise the bar on our world-class customer experience while ensuring all of our guests experience the “Houston friendly hospitality that comes with Hobby Airport being a five-star global service gateway.”
According to Aviation Pros, it is projected that Latrelle Management will profit $8 million. Local and national eateries such as Common Bond Bistro and Bakery, Velvet Taco, Pinks Pizza, Dish Society, the Rustic, Wendy’s, Peet’s Coffee, Dunkin’ and Jersey Mike’s Sub will have a presence at the airport.
Concessions for the new restaurants will launch in April and are expected to be completed within 24 months.
Humble Beginnings In Houston
James’ father, W.A. James Sr., launched the Houston-based LaTrelle bakery with his wife Gladys Latrelle. The couple, however, was not satisfied with baking brownies and cookies. They began distributing prepared food to convenience stores, vending machines and businesses through a national food distributor.
By 1985, the bakery had a location in the Hobby Airport. Today, the business has expanded beyond a bakery and distributor of prepared meals. It is a management company operating national restaurants and gourmet brands in airports and event venues throughout the United States.
“We are a local, family-owned and operated business,” Kenneth James, Chief Financial Officer of Latrelle’s Management, said in a press statement. “This is proof that given the access to compete on equal footing, small companies can execute large responsibilities. This is a privilege and an honor. We are humbled and grateful.”
