United Concessions Group Expands Footprint at Cleveland Airport

Acquires four popular dining locations, including Shake Shack and Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

United Concessions Group (UCG), a leading airport concessions operator, has acquired four established dining locations at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. The transaction, led by UCG Owner Hayat Rababy and Executive Vice President Spencer Shaw, includes popular eateries such as Shake Shack, Petit Gourmet, Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar, and 800° Woodfired Kitchen.

Why it matters

This acquisition further strengthens UCG's long-standing presence at its home airport in Cleveland, where the company has operated concessions for over 40 years. The move aligns with UCG's broader strategy of pursuing measured, sustainable growth in markets where it can leverage its operational expertise and local knowledge.

The details

UCG has expanded from two operating locations to eleven across multiple airports and venues over the past five years, including Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International and Akron-Canton airports, as well as Great American Ball Park. With this latest acquisition, UCG now operates six locations at Cleveland Hopkins, including Bar Symon and Chick-fil-A.

  • UCG has operated concessions at Cleveland Hopkins for more than 40 years.
  • The company has expanded from two operating locations to eleven across multiple airports and venues over the past five years.

The players

United Concessions Group (UCG)

A leading airport concessions operator that has been running concessions at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport for over 40 years.

Hayat Rababy

The owner of United Concessions Group.

Spencer Shaw

The Executive Vice President of United Concessions Group.

Shake Shack

A popular burger and shake restaurant chain that is one of the four dining locations acquired by UCG at Cleveland Hopkins Airport.

Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar

A Mexican-inspired restaurant and bar that is one of the four dining locations acquired by UCG at Cleveland Hopkins Airport.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Cleveland Hopkins is where our story began, and this acquisition represents both growth and continuity. These are strong locations with teams already in place. Our focus is simple: support the team members, honour the brands and deliver great food and hospitality to travellers.”

— Spencer Shaw, Executive Vice President, United Concessions Group

What’s next

UCG plans to continue supporting the existing teams at the newly acquired dining locations and maintaining the high-quality food and hospitality that travelers have come to expect at Cleveland Hopkins Airport.

The takeaway

This acquisition solidifies UCG's position as a dominant player in the airport concessions market, particularly at its home base in Cleveland. The move reflects the company's strategy of strategic growth in markets where it can leverage its operational expertise and local knowledge to deliver exceptional dining experiences for travelers.