The Chicago Department of Aviation has issued the long-awaited request for proposals for Midway (MDW). The airport is seeking a single entity to lease, develop, manage and operate the concessions program, which includes food and beverage, news and convenience, automated vending, specialty retail and duty free.
The RFP marks the start of the largest investment plan for MDW in almost a decade. The overall modernization program is valued at nearly $248 million.
“Midway continues to be one of the fastest-growing airports in the nation, with record-breaking passenger traffic in recent years and increased service to more domestic and international destinations,” says Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “We’re improving the customer’s experience from the moment they leave their door to the moment they board their plane, while helping to grow Midway’s competitive edge and creating more than 1,700 jobs for residents.”
The RFP encompasses the more than 51,300 square feet of existing concessions space, as well as an additional 18,000 square feet of expansion concessions space. All concessions areas, stores and restaurants are to be renovated, and the airport wants shopping, dining, lounge facilities, spa services and medical services to be added.
“This RFP is designed to bring the best and most innovative services and amenities to travelers, and the overall project will significantly enhance the customer experience at Midway,” says Ginger S. Evans, CDA commissioner.
Because the RFP is structured using a single-entity model, one entity will manage, lease and develop the entire program, with no single entity or sub-lessee having more than 60 percent of one of the concessions categories.
The terms of the RFP require a $10 million minimum initial capital investment in CDA-required projects. The chosen single entity will be required to sublease at least 40 percent of the program and have at least 37 percent Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise participation.
The length of the agreement is 15 years. Applicants have until Dec. 18 to submit responses.
For more information, visit www.flychicago.com/midwayconcessionsrfp/.
