Hospitality company plans several new airport openings in 2026 as part of ongoing nationwide expansion
Athlete Playmakers Group, a fast-growing airport hospitality company, continues to broaden its national footprint through athlete-led restaurant, bar, and retail concepts. Each concept reflects the culture, energy, and identity of the city where it operates, bringing the character of the destination directly into the airport environment for travelers moving through these major hubs.
The company has scheduled multiple new openings at major U.S. airports throughout 2026 as part of its ongoing nationwide growth. Athlete Playmakers Group works with well-known athletes, airport operators, and local collaborators on every new project. The team designs each location around the personal story, career, and tastes of the athlete featured, which helps the space feel rooted in its surrounding community rather than resembling a standard concession stand that travelers might find in any other terminal.
“Today’s travelers expect more than convenience. They want experiences that are memorable, authentic, and exciting,” said Derek Missimo, Co-Founder of Athlete Playmakers Group. “We are creating hospitality concepts that capture the spirit of each city while delivering elevated food, beverage, and guest experiences that travelers genuinely connect with.”
Co-Founder Simon Bozas shared a similar perspective on what drives the company’s approach to airport dining and retail. “We founded Athlete Playmakers Group on the belief that airport restaurants can become destinations in their own right,” Bozas said. “Every concept blends premium hospitality, compelling storytelling, and the influence of legendary athletes to create experiences that stand apart.”
A Growing Lineup of Athlete-Led Airport Concepts
Athlete Playmakers Group opened its first location at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in Terminal C-37 with NBA legend Dirk Nowitzki, launching the Nowitzki concept. The opening introduced a fresh model for athlete-driven airport hospitality and helped shape the direction of the company’s growth in the years that followed.
A second concept followed soon after at Dallas Love Field. There, the company partnered with Dallas Stars icon Marty Turco on Turco35, expanding its presence in the Texas market and reinforcing its Dallas roots within months of the original debut.
Earlier this year, the company opened Taste of Gold with seven-time Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston. The Houston location honors Biles and her global impact as one of the most decorated athletes of all time, carrying her legacy of excellence into a high-traffic travel setting.
The newest concept opened at Norfolk International Airport with Pro Football Hall of Famer Bruce Smith. The 200 Sack Club, named for Smith’s NFL all-time sack record set during his career with the Buffalo Bills, draws on his football legacy and gives travelers passing through the region a dining option tied to one of the sport’s recognized names.
Experienced Leadership Behind the Expansion
Athlete Playmakers Group operates with a team that brings more than a century of combined experience in aviation and hospitality. The executive group includes Heather Peoples, Michael Uremovich, Ken Myers, Tom Fireoved, and Mark Brezinski. Together, these industry leaders have built an operating platform and have earned the trust of airport authorities, concession partners, and travelers across the country.
What Comes Next for Athlete Playmakers Group
The company plans to continue moving into major airport markets across the United States. It also intends to pursue new hospitality, entertainment, and brand partnerships that further elevate the traveler experience nationwide.
