Partnering to Serve Travelers and the Community
When travelers at PTI grab a coffee before a morning flight, enjoy a quick meal between connections, or make a self-checkout purchase after hours, they may not realize the extensive work that goes into creating a seamless dining and convenience experience. At the heart of this effort is HMSHost by Avolta. A global leader in food and beverage services for travelers that has operated at PTI since 2016. But HMSHost’s impact extends beyond serving delicious meals—it is deeply committed to supporting the community through initiatives to combat hunger and aid local causes.
Chris James, Director of Operations for HMSHost at PTIA, explains the unique approach HMSHost takes to enhance the traveler experience. “We work closely with the Piedmont Triad Airport Authority (PTAA) to understand what travelers need and want,” says James. “Whether it’s providing feedback on new concepts, staying open for late flights, or offering touchless ordering options, we’re here to make things easier for guests and airport employees alike.”
HMSHost operates three restaurants at PTI, including the Market South store on the South (American Airlines) Concourse and The Local store, located on the North (United/Delta/Allegiant) Concourse. Both locations remain open 24 hours to cater to passengers in a hurry or those arriving on late-night flights or airport employees working around the clock. The company’s ability to adapt to changing travel patterns, especially after the pandemic, has been a key part of its success. “We’ve seen leisure travel grow significantly, and events like the High Point Furniture Market bring a unique energy and passenger needs,” James notes.
Beyond its operational excellence, HMSHost is also dedicated to giving back. Through the HMSHost Foundation, the company focuses on initiatives to fight hunger. At PTI, this commitment takes several forms, from weekly donations of unused food items to local charities to hosting canned food drives. “Ending hunger is a mission we take seriously,” says James. “We donate surplus food regularly and partner with local organizations to ensure nothing goes to waste.” The company’s philanthropic efforts don’t stop there. HMSHost actively participates in PTI’s community-focused events, such as the annual 5k/10k Run on the Runway, which happens each spring and supports food banks in the Piedmont Triad region, and the Honor Flight program, which celebrates military veterans. “We’re proud to say ‘yes’ to supporting these causes,” shares James. “It’s about being part of something bigger and giving back to the community we’re in.”
With 75 employees at PTI, HMSHost combines local connections with the resources of a global organization. Whether it’s rolling out cashier-less technology for quick and easy dining or hosting toy drives during the holidays, HMSHost’s contributions to PTI and the surrounding community are invaluable.
As travelers continue to move through the airport, they can be assured that HMSHost is not only focused on enhancing their journey but also on making a positive impact on the lives of others. As James puts it, “Our goal is to support our guests, airport, and community in every way we can.”
