In a recent interview with The Moodie Davitt Report, Yves Lacheret, CEO of Areas France, discussed the company’s strategies to maintain and strengthen its leading position in the French travel hospitality sector. With annual sales exceeding €500 million in 2022, Areas France operates across airports, rail stations, motorways, and leisure centers, managing approximately 540 points of sale and employing around 5,500 staff, a number that rises to 6,000 during peak seasons.
Lacheret highlighted the company’s resilience post-pandemic, noting a complete sales recovery in all channels except for airports, where provincial locations are expected to normalize by 2024/2025. He emphasized the need for agility in adapting to evolving consumer behaviors, such as the growing demand for grab-and-go options and vegetarian offerings, reflecting a shift towards health-conscious choices. M
Recent strategic initiatives include the opening of a flagship McDonald’s at Gare Montparnasse in February 2023 and the renovation of the mezzanine area at Gare de Lyon to feature the Hoppy Brasserie, a concept developed in collaboration with Parisian brewer Gallia. Additionally, Areas secured a ten-year contract as the sole airside concessionaire at Paris Charles de Gaulle’s new Terminal 1. The acquisition of the Sighor food and beverage motorway business further expanded Areas’ footprint, adding 19 service areas and enhancing its leadership in the motorway sector.
These developments underscore Areas France’s commitment to innovation and adaptability, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of travelers while solidifying its market leadership.