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BUSINESS WORLD MAGAZINE
Formed in 2001, Express Catering (ECL) is an industry-leading hospitality company.
The organization operates all the food and beverage operations within Sangster In-
ternational Airport’s (SIA) secured area. Over the years Express Catering has grown
and evolved alongside the airport, forming a trusted and enduring partnership with
operator MBJ Airports Limited.
Today, Express Catering employs more than 300 people, and operates 28 restaurants
and bars within SIA. With nearly two decades of experience in the airport hospitality
industry Express Catering has created a concession program that exceeds guest’s
expectations. The group provides travellers with a diverse mix of internationally-rec-
ognized brands including Starbucks, Margaritaville and Wendy’s; and proprietary con-
cepts like Viva Grab n’ Go, Cricket’s, Groovy Grouper and Bobsled Café. “Our goal is
to provide our customers with a diverse mix of food and beverage offerings while
creating brands that reflect the rich culture of the Caribbean,” says Ian Dear, CEO of
Express Catering.
In recent years, MBJ Airports Limited has made it their mission to transform SIA into
more than just an entry and exit facility for Jamaica. Instead, they want the airport to
be an “integral part of the country’s tourism offering,” according to Rafael Echevarne,
their CEO. He says their goal is to make SIA into a “cornerstone of the Jamaican expe-
rience.” And he says that Express Catering has been a vital and enthusiastic partner
in achieving that goal.
Ian goes on to say, “We are excited to see the changes MBJ is making at Sangster
International Airport. We work diligently to ensure the airport’s food and beverage
experience evolves and expands to meet the changing needs of travellers. Express
Catering supports MBJ’s vision, and is committed to creating an authentic sense of
place that is truly Jamaican.”
Moving forward, Express Catering will be expanding their offerings and introducing
new branded experiences that will capture the essence of the country – everything
from Jamaica’s culinary offering, to its music, cool vibe and rich colors will be repre-
sented. “Jamaica is an amazing Caribbean destination,” says Dear, “and we want to
deliver food and beverage experiences that are true to this country’s rich culture.”