USA. Leading travel food & beverage company SSP America has promoted Paul Loupakos to the role of Senior Vice President, Development and Airport Retention.
He will retain the portfolio he currently oversees and focus on the management and strategy behind maintaining SSP America’s network of current airports.
SSP America Deputy Chief Executive Officer Pat Murray said: “Paul’s tenured career and personality make him one of the most well-known figures in the US aviation sector and an accomplished restaurateur. His leadership since joining SSP America has been incredibly important as he has played a pivotal role in the growth of the company.
“Paul is a mentor to so many of our younger operators because he understands not only the commercial mindset required to be successful, but the passion and dedication needed to be successful. We’re tremendously grateful for the contribution Paul has made to SSP America.”
Loupakos joined SSP America in 2015 after a career in airport restaurants that began in 1983 at a quick-service unit. He has had only two employers in his 40-plus year career. Since joining SSP America he has seen the company expand its operational footprint in airports across the US, but particularly in the greater New York and California regions.
SSP America Chief Executive Officer Michael Svagdis added: “SSP America is gearing up for growth as we emerge from the pandemic’s impact and set our sights on expanding our portfolio across the Western Hemisphere—providing the ‘taste of place’ for which we’re known. Paul’s leadership and industry expertise play key roles in helping us achieve our growth and customer service goals.”
*Registration is now open for the Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) Conference, to be held as a virtual event on 12-13 September. Registration is free and can be made via this link through organiser The Moodie Davitt Report.
The event will be rounded off by the people-focused FAB Superstars Awards. There is now under one month until the entry deadline, with the opportunity for companies to make nominations at this link.
