Hospitality company plans several airport debuts for 2026 as growth accelerates
Athlete Playmakers Group, a rising operator in airport hospitality, is reshaping how travelers experience terminals through restaurant, bar, and retail concepts built around professional athletes and the cities they represent. Each venue draws on the culture and identity of its destination city, bringing local energy directly into the airport setting.
The company will open several locations across major U.S. airports in 2026, continuing a growth phase that pairs it with athlete partners, airport operators, and local collaborators. Venues take their cues from the athlete’s career, hometown, and personal taste, producing spaces that feel tied to the surrounding community rather than standard concession outlets.
“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.”
“We founded Athlete Playmakers Group on the belief that airport restaurants can become destinations in their own right,” added Simon Bozas, Co-Founder. “Every concept blends premium hospitality, compelling storytelling, and the influence of legendary athletes to create experiences that stand apart.”
The company’s first venue opened at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in Terminal C-37 with former NBA player Dirk Nowitzki, under the “Nowitzki” name. A second concept followed at Dallas Love Field, this time with former Dallas Stars goaltender Marty Turco fronting a venue called “Turco35.”
Earlier this year, the company opened “Taste of Gold” at George Bush Intercontinental Airport with seven-time Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles. The space recognizes her gymnastics record and global reach.
The newest opening sits at Norfolk International Airport, where the company partnered with Pro Football Hall of Famer Bruce Smith on a restaurant called “200 Sack Club.” The name references Smith’s career with the Buffalo Bills and his standing as the NFL’s all-time sack leader.
Backed by more than a century of combined aviation and hospitality leadership, Heather Peoples, Michael Uremovich, Ken Myers, Tom Fireoved, and Mark Brezinski form the executive team. Together, they have built operating relationships with airport authorities, concession partners, and traveler-facing brands across the country.
Going forward, the company plans to enter additional airport markets and pursue partnerships across hospitality, entertainment, and consumer brands to grow its footprint in the travel sector.
