Commissioner Cohen Higgins Champions Historic $330 Million Investment to Transform MIA Concessions and Passenger Experience
On April 1, the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a landmark investment package to overhaul concessions at Miami International Airport (MIA), securing its status as the Gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean. Sponsored by Vice Chair of the Airport Committee, Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins, this legislation secures a minimum guaranteed investment of $267 million, with an additional $64.5 million contingent on a lease extension—bringing the total potential investment to over $330 million.
“For the first time in decades, we have achieved a transformative milestone for MIA—one that positions MIA to become a world-class gateway for our millions of residents and visitors,” said Commissioner Cohen Higgins. “With record-breaking growth—56 million passengers and over 3 million tons of cargo in 2024 —MIA is at a pivotal moment. To stay competitive on the global stage, we must act decisively. This historic agreement modernizes MIA’s concessions, expands dining and retail options, and secures long-term revenue for our community. Just as importantly, it opens doors for new businesses, giving local entrepreneurs a real opportunity to grow and succeed at one of the busiest airports in the world.”
After months of negotiations between Commissioner Cohen Higgins’ office, airport concessionaires, and Miami-Dade Aviation Department officials, the Board has taken decisive action to restructure MIA’s concessions model, increase investments, and set new industry-leading standards for retail and dining experiences. With a shift to 63% food and beverage (F&B) and 37% retail, passengers will soon enjoy an expanded selection of high-quality dining and shopping options, aligning with trends at other major airports worldwide.
“I want to thank my co-prime sponsor Commissioner Kevin Cabrera, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Chairman Anthony Rodriguez, the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, and all our MIA concessionaires for their collaboration in securing this critical investment,” Cohen Higgins added.
This modernization plan is expected to generate approximately $1 billion in revenue over the 12-year term, reinforcing MIA’s role as an economic powerhouse for Miami-Dade County. Additionally, the agreement ensures compliance with the county’s Living Wage ordinance, guaranteeing wages of at least $21.67 per hour, more than 60% above the state’s minimum wage.
Key Provisions of the Agreement:
• $267 million in guaranteed investment, with a total potential investment exceeding $330 million.
• Expanded opportunities for small and minority-owned businesses, ensuring greater participation in concession contracts and supporting local entrepreneurs.
• Significant control over brand selection and design quality, elevating the overall passenger experience.
• A minimum investment requirement of $850 per square foot for retail spaces and $1,000 per square foot for F&B spaces—nearly doubling industry standards.
• Cutting-edge technology integration, including mobile ordering, AI-powered inventory systems, and multi-order point-of-sale options.
• Strict renovation deadlines and clawback provisions, ensuring timely project completion and accountability from concessionaires.
Additionally, Commissioner Cohen Higgins is spearheading new Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for concessionaire opportunities in the upcoming Terminal K, as well as unleased spaces in the North Terminal and other high-traffic areas. These efforts will broaden vendor diversity and enhance MIA’s offerings with innovative, world-class brands.
With MIA at a critical crossroads, this investment guarantees that Miami-Dade County remains a leader in international travel, economic growth, and consumer experience, while also creating new pathways for local, minority-owned businesses to succeed.
