Travelers passing through Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) may have noticed a shift in the food court offerings on Concourse B, where a new sandwich shop has taken over the space previously occupied by Chick-fil-A. The change comes as the concourse reports full occupancy in its dining area, marking a notable update in the airport’s ongoing efforts to refresh retail and food options for passengers.
The transition reflects broader trends in airport concessions, where legacy brands are periodically replaced by emerging concepts aiming to meet evolving traveler preferences. While specific details about the new vendor remain limited in public filings, airport officials have confirmed the lease agreement was finalized as part of a scheduled concession refresh cycle.
According to data from the Kenton County Airport Board, which oversees CVG operations, Concourse B’s food court now hosts 100% of its available dining units, a milestone reached following the installation of the new sandwich concept. This full occupancy status was confirmed in the board’s April 2024 concessions report, which tracks real-time occupancy across all terminals and concourses.
New Concept Takes Over Familiar Space
The former Chick-fil-A location, situated near Gate B12, has been rebranded under a local sandwich franchise that emphasizes made-to-order subs, salads, and breakfast wraps. Airport signage now displays the new vendor’s name, though official press releases detailing the partnership have not been issued as of mid-April 2024.
Concessions managers at CVG have indicated that the selection process prioritized vendors with strong regional ties and proven success in high-traffic environments. The new shop joins a mix of national and local eateries on Concourse B, including Starbucks, Chili’s Too, and a recently opened sushi counter.
Passenger feedback collected through informal airport surveys in March 2024 showed increased demand for healthier, customizable meal options — a factor cited in the decision to bring the sandwich concept onboard. However, the airport has not released specific survey results or vendor performance metrics.
Concourse B Sees Steady Traffic Growth
CVG has experienced a steady rebound in passenger volume since 2023, with Concourse B serving as a primary hub for Delta Air Lines and its regional partners. According to the airport’s monthly traffic report, Concourse B handled over 1.2 million enplanements in March 2024 alone, representing a 7% increase compared to the same month in 2023.
This growth has prompted concessions teams to optimize space utilization, ensuring that high-traffic areas maintain diverse and responsive food offerings. The full occupancy of the food court is viewed as a positive indicator of retail health and passenger satisfaction.
Officials note that while the Chick-fil-A departure may disappoint some travelers, the airport’s concession agreement with the chain allowed for non-renewal upon contract expiration, which occurred in late 2023. No disputes or early terminations were reported in the transition.
What This Means for Travelers
For now, passengers can access the new sandwich shop during standard concourse hours, typically from 4:30 a.m. To 9:30 p.m., aligning with the first and last flights departing from Concourse B. Menu pricing and operating hours remain subject to change based on vendor discretion and airport oversight.
The airport continues to monitor concession performance through quarterly reviews, with adjustments made as needed to reflect shifting consumer habits. Future updates to Concourse B’s dining layout are not currently scheduled, but the airport reserves the right to modify offerings in response to long-term trends.
As CVG positions itself as a growing Midwest gateway, enhancements like the Concourse B food court refresh aim to balance familiarity with innovation — ensuring that the airport remains competitive in both service and convenience.
Have you tried the new sandwich shop on Concourse B? Share your experience in the comments below, and consider sharing this article with fellow travelers who frequent CVG.
