Internationally and regionally acclaimed chefs, food halls reimagined as global bazaars, state-of-the-art designs, 6,000 iPads and new payment technologies will be part of the new Terminal C at Newark International (EWR).
OTG Management has begun the overhaul on the United Airlines terminal and expects to open more than 45 new restaurants and retail markets within the next seven weeks in a transition program. The full $120 million renovation will be phased in over the next 18 months, with the first permanent installations debuting in the summer of 2015. Completion is scheduled for mid-2016.
“The United Experience at Newark Liberty will be a world-class setting that combines beautiful spaces with cutting-edge technology and some of the finest dining options anywhere,” said Rick Blatstein, CEO of OTG. “We view travel as a lifestyle, and our mission is treat the airport itself as a destination, and more than just a place travelers pass through on their way to somewhere else. We are so pleased to work with United and our culinary and design partners to make this vision a reality.”
The two companies announced in September that United had selected OTG to overhaul the shopping and dining experience in Terminal C. There will be more than 55 new dining venues providing an array of culinary choices at all price points, company officials say. Ingredients will be locally sourced and fresh and will highlight regional and local dining experiences.
OTG’s restaurants will offer what company officials say is a first: the opportunity for passengers to pay for food and amenities in an airport with MileagePlus award miles or with a boarding pass. They’ll also be able to scan their boarding passes to order meals and drinks. The terminal is used by 20 million passengers annually.
“United is committed to providing a flier-friendly experience for our customers on the ground as well as in the air,” said Kate Gebo, United’s vice president of corporate real estate. “At our Newark hub, we’re creating new dining and retail options to provide an exceptional customer experience that incorporates the amenities and convenience that our customers tell us they want when they travel.”
