Autogrill Group, through HMSHost, was a premium sponsor and one of the main promoters of the initiative.
The event was attended by over 170 representatives of major airport Food & Beverage operators In a densely packed programme of reports and round tables, the FAB Conference was an effective forum for discussion on themes such as innovation and future challenges for the airport f&b industry.
For Autogrill Group the speakers were Elie Maalouf, President and CEO HMSHost,in the opening conference and Ezio Balarini, Chief Marketing Officer Autogrill Group, who took part in a panel discussion entitled “Where Next for Airport F&B?”, moderated by David King, with Rick Stavast, Chief Marketing officer, SSP. During the Gala Dinner (Monday 24th January 2011), Autogrill Group received two awards.The first – “Best Wine-Led Bar Offer” – went to the Beaudevin Wine & Tapas concept in Brussels Airport.
The second – “Best Design and Overall F&B facilities” – went to the Group for the variety, accessibility and innovation of the concepts it has in Schiphol Airport, The Netherlands.