OREANDA-NEWS. Denver International Airport (DIA) announced today that it will seek bids on 14 new shopping and dining locations, including a common-use passenger lounge, convenience retail for the upcoming public transit center, and a brewery-themed restaurant for the upcoming Westin hotel and conference center.

A total of 11 requests for proposals (RFPs) representing 14 new concession opportunities will be released beginning in November.

Due to expiring leases, about 75 percent of DIA's 140 concession locations will transform via a mix of new or remodeled businesses over the next few years. The transformation will bring a better mix of local flavors and national brands to the more than 50 million passengers who use DIA each year.

"The airport is looking for proposals to enhance our growing lineup of local treasures along with world-class shopping and dining options, in our efforts to enhance our customers' experiences," said airport CEO Kim Day. "We are actively seeking concepts that will provide quality and variety while meeting the escalating expectation of the traveling public, while simultaneously creating a sense of place at DIA."

For the first time, the 90-day list includes the participation goals assigned to each location under the federal Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program (ACDBE), and the City of Denver's Minority/Women Business Enterprise (M/WBE) goals. ACDBE goals apply to the operation of each concession, while M/WBE goals apply to the design and construction of each location. These goals are typically not published until the formal RFP process begins. DIA is proactively providing the information earlier to encourage entrepreneurs to obtain the proper certifications, or find certified business partners, prior to the formal bidding process.

To support that effort, DIA will provide a special free seminar for entrepreneurs during the annual DIA Day, which offers a comprehensive look at how to do business at the airport. The seminar will provide detailed information about the 11 RFPs and how to navigate the bidding process. DIA Day also offers "speed dating" sessions that focus on specific aspects of doing business at DIA, including bonding and insurance requirements, the airport's Retail Merchandising Units program, upcoming concessions opportunities, working with airport security and information about the DIA Commerce Hub. Lunch will be provided.