Plans Unveiled for Redevelopment of O’Hare’s International Terminal 5

Scheduled for completion in Fall 2013, the redevelopment will feature world-class dining and retailpost-security – including many Chicago-based restaurants and brands – cutting edge design, and a reengineered layout that enhances the traveler experience and maximizes revenues. Previously, 95 percent of the terminal’s dining and retail options were located pre-security, making it difficult for passengers to access dining and shopping while waiting for flights. The redevelopment is the first since the terminal’s construction in 1993.  

“The reconfigured Terminal 5 raises the bar for airport concessions programs in Chicago and across the country,” said CDA Commissioner Rosemarie S. Andolino during a celebratory unveiling inside the terminal. “The redevelopment fulfills Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s vision to transform the terminal into a world-class experience for international visitors and Chicago travelers alike.”

Westfield Concession Management and its tenant partners are investing more than $26 million into the terminal over the course of the redevelopment, generating a total of 180 construction positions. The new dining and retail program will create 100 new full-time concession jobs, adding to the existing 180 concession jobs for a total of approximately 280 employees. 

“We are deploying Westfield’s global expertise in operating some of the most iconic shopping venues in the world to Terminal 5,” said Dominic Lowe, Executive Vice President, Westfield Concession Management.  “We are transforming the entire passenger experience in Terminal 5.”

The renovated terminal interior – including a new food court with performance kitchens – will offer a redesigned, more efficient TSA checkpoint and feature new lighting, signage, fixtures and other firstclass amenities while incorporating sustainable and recycled materials.  

A central element of the new design is the European-style pass-through duty-free store which all departing passengers will flow through after clearing the new TSA checkpoint. Operated by Dufry, the duty-free shopping program will link Chicago’s famous Magnificent Mile shopping district to Terminal 5.  Travelers will enjoy stand-alone luxury shops from renowned designers Bvlgari, Michael Kors, Salvatore Ferragamo and Emporio Armani.   

Passengers will enjoy sophisticated dining that brings global flavors together for a traveler-friendly mix of healthy and fresh sit-down, casual and grab-and-go options. The new program includes Tortas Frontera by local award-winning chef Rick Bayless, featuring a relaxing sit-down atmosphere and flavorful Mexican cuisine with ingredients sourced from local farms. Natural Break offers quick, freshmade salads, sandwiches and juices. Tocco brings rustic Italian fare including wood fired Neapolitanstyle pizza, pastas and old world favorites. Indulge in gastropub-style sausages, wraps and more in a lively atmosphere at Local Headlines Bar; or savor freshly roasted, direct trade coffees from around the world at locally owned-and-operated Intelligentsia Coffee. 

Featuring four unique concepts, the redevelopment marks Chicago-based restaurant group Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises’ first entry into an airport. Dishing up fresh sushi, gourmet tacos, burgers and more, Hub 51 offers something for everyone, and Urban Olive, a debut concept for the group, serves up fresh Mediterranean cuisine with modern flair. Big Bowl brings fresh Chinese and Thai fareto the mix, with Wow Bao offering its signature hot Asian buns.

The retail program continues with Hudson News’ flagship travel essentials concept, and Swiss watchmaker Swatch brings its iconic, colorful timepieces to the terminal. Chicago-based Vosges Haut Chocolat invites passengers to travel the world through its exotic chocolate bars, truffles and toffees; and I Love Chicago captures the character and passion of the city with a variety of products ranging from original artwork, apothecary and unique accessories. In a first for Chicago, XpresSpa will provide massage services and salon treatments such as manicures, pedicures and facials, while featuring local-based products.  

Since the redevelopment began on July 1, 2012, Westfield has completed immediate upgrades to enhance the traveler experience during the transformation.  Passengers are enjoying expanded offerings and increased hours of operation for post-security food, duty-free and travel essentials. New shopping, dining and amenities will open throughout the course of redevelopment. 

Operating in 10 major U.S. airports, including some of the highest revenue generating facilities in the U.S., Westfield Concession Management (WCM) has earned a combined 89 awards from Airport Revenue News and Airports Council International North America, including 65 first place awards. WCM currently manages concessions programs at Chicago O’Hare, Boston Logan, Houston (George Bush), JFK, LAX, Miami, Newark Liberty, Orlando, Ronald Reagan National Airport, and Washington Dulles Airports.

O’Hare’s International Terminal 5 was built in 1993. Currently, 24 air carriers operate from the terminal’s 21 common-use gates. O’Hare International Airport consistently ranks as one of the world’s busiest airports, offering nonstop and direct service to nearly 200 cities worldwide. Approximately 50 commercial carriers operate out of 189 gates at O’Hare, carrying more than 67 million passengers annually. 

Source and photo: Chicago O`Hare International Airport