Dallas, Texas, January 6, 2026
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is enhancing its customer experience with the introduction of 14 new retail and dining options across various terminals. This initiative showcases North Texas’s local culture and cuisine while promoting community involvement through a Request for Proposals (RFP) open until February 2026, inviting local businesses to participate. Key features include 11 food and beverage venues and 3 specialty retail locations, aligning with DFW’s $12 billion capital improvement plan aimed at elevating the travel experience.
DFW Airport to Launch 14 New Retail and Dining Options
Exciting changes are coming to DFW Airport, enhancing travel experiences with local flavors.
Dallas, Texas – Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is set to enhance its customer experience by introducing 14 new retail and dining establishments across multiple terminals. This initiative aims to showcase the best of North Texas, offering travelers a taste of local culture and cuisine. This effort reflects both the vibrant community spirit of Dallas and a commitment to economic growth through local engagement.
The Request for Proposals (RFP) issued by DFW Airport is open until February 2, 2026. This timely collaboration seeks to invite local and small businesses to join in on the initiative, fostering a sense of community involvement and highlighting local entrepreneurship. This initiative illustrates how reduced bureaucracy and local leadership can create opportunities for economic development, while simultaneously enriching the airport experience for millions of travelers.
Details of the New Additions
The plan includes 11 food and beverage opportunities along with three specialty retail locations across Terminals A, B, E, and F. The proposed concepts will feature a diverse array of options, from fast-casual and grab-and-go eateries to enticing frozen treats, cosmetics, and unique retail shops. This variety promises to cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences among travelers.
Encouraging Local Participation
DFW Airport is actively encouraging local and small businesses to participate through its Small Business Enterprise Concession (SBEC) program. This initiative provides resources for interested firms, including outreach materials and a partner-match database available on the DFW Concessions page. Such programs not only empower local business owners but also contribute to the rich tapestry of Texas culture represented in the airport.
Background Context
In 2024, DFW Airport welcomed approximately 87 million passengers, with projections indicating growth to over 100 million travelers annually before 2030. The airport’s concessions operations generated an estimated $4.2 billion in gross product and supported more than 48,000 direct and indirect jobs. The airport’s growth trajectory highlights its vital role in the local economy, showcasing the importance of civic innovation and community support.
This expansion is part of DFW’s broader $12 billion capital improvement plan, DFW Forward, which includes transforming terminals, expanding gate capacity, and enhancing the overall customer experience. The plan features the construction of a new Terminal F, rebuilding Terminal C, and expanding gate areas in Terminals A and C, underscoring a commitment to improving travel infrastructure and services.
Key Features of DFW Airport’s New Additions
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of New Establishments | 14 (11 food and beverage, 3 specialty retail) |
| Terminals Affected | A, B, E, F |
| Submission Deadline for RFP | February 2, 2026 |
| Part of Capital Improvement Plan | DFW Forward ($12 billion investment) |
| Projected Passenger Growth | Over 100 million annually before 2030 |
Conclusion
As DFW Airport embarks on this exciting new chapter with the introduction of 14 new retail and dining options, it not only enhances the travel experience for millions but also affirms its commitment to local businesses and community growth. The ongoing improvements at DFW underscore the airport’s significant role in shaping the economic landscape of Dallas.
Residents and travelers alike are encouraged to keep an eye on these developments and support local businesses in the airport’s endeavors. Engaging with local initiatives and fostering community participation can drive positive change and enhance the flavor of Dallas TX’s vibrant culture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of DFW Airport’s new retail and dining additions?
The new establishments aim to enhance the customer experience by showcasing the best of North Texas, offering travelers a taste of local culture and cuisine.
How can local businesses participate in this initiative?
Local and small businesses are encouraged to participate through DFW Airport’s Small Business Enterprise Concession (SBEC) program. Resources, including outreach materials and a partner-match database, are available on the DFW Concessions page.
What is the timeline for the new additions?
The Request for Proposals (RFP) is open for submissions until February 2, 2026. The new establishments are expected to be operational in the near future, enhancing the airport’s offerings for travelers.
How does this expansion fit into DFW Airport’s broader development plans?
This expansion is part of DFW’s $12 billion capital improvement plan, DFW Forward, which includes transforming terminals, expanding gate capacity, and enhancing the overall customer experience. The plan features the construction of a new Terminal F, rebuilding Terminal C, and expanding gate areas in Terminals A and C.
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
