The Massachusetts Port Authority is upgrading passenger services and amenities by bringing in international airport operator British Airports Authority (BAA) to redevelop, market and manage the concessions in Terminals B, D and E at Logan International Airport. The ten-year agreement will include the complete renovation of approximately 75,000 square feet of concession space, which includes new food and beverage facilities, news and gift, specialty stores and duty-free concessions for travelers.

"A world-class city deserves a world-class airport --- inside and out," said Massport Executive Director and CEO Virginia Buckingham. "Bringing in BAA guarantees our customers more high-quality concessions in our terminals and will provide them with a first-class experience every time they fly through Logan."

The latest step to improve concessions and service for travelers at Logan, was initiated when Massport issued an RFP in October 1999 for a new retail developer for Terminals B, D and E. Massport selected a retail developer who will create a financially solid, aesthetically pleasing retail space to provide travelers with a broad range of local and national products.

BAA will begin managing concessions in Terminal D/E in August. Terminal B, which is currently leased to South Terminal Corporation through 2001, will remain under the current operator until then. BAA will work with Massport to ensure that the transition in 2001 will be smooth and that customers will always have access to concessions and retail shops. Design and construction of the new concession space will begin immediately and is expected to be completed by 2002. The total project cost is estimated to be $14 million.

"We are eager to bring our expertise in airport retailing and management to Logan Airport and contribute to the impressive developments underway in partnership with the Massachusetts Port Authority," said Mark Knight, director of BAA's newly formed subsidiary, BAA Boston, Inc. "Logan is the gateway to New England, and we are setting out to deliver the highest quality retail program and first class services for Logan passengers."

"We are committed to making Logan one of the most passenger friendly airports in the world," said Buckingham. "This development will provide travelers with the broad range of shopping options and the amenities they have come to expect at world class airports."

BAA will begin negotiating with new prospective tenants immediately and work with existing tenants who wish to remain in Terminal B, D and E. Massport expects the new retail vendor mix to include specialty retail concepts (jewelry, music, cosmetics and electronics) that help give travelers a sense of place at Logan, and expanded food and beverage offerings.

Boston Landing, the upscale retail court in Terminal C, will continue to be managed by Westfield Management Services. Host Marriott, which operates a food court and full service Legal Seafoods Restaurant in Terminal C will not be impacted by the new agreement.

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