Landing a once-in-a-generation duty-free concession deal at the New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport marks a powerful milestone for one minority entrepreneur, especially as a debut airport concessions joint venture partner.
Brison Hardin, CEO of Parkview Global, is one of five joint venture partners who are part of the agreement with Duty Free Americas to create Skyline Duty Free by Duty Free Americas at the New Terminal One, a first-of-its-kind retail experience. The bespoke brand, spanning nearly 20,000 square feet, will feature a flagship store with four additional duty-free locations throughout the terminal.
Though Hardin’s career in the airport industry started just six years ago, he is already making a mark as a major player in the industry through his deal with Duty Free Americas. His time in airports began when he had the opportunity to learn from an experienced airport operator through a role in business development. sparking his entrepreneurial spirit.
“My goal isn’t just to open successful stores and elevate the passenger experience to a world-class standard,” Hardin said. “It’s also to educate others about airport operations and create pathways for new minority entrepreneurs. For me, entering the airport space was a chance to build a legacy for my family and become a pillar in the community, something I strongly believe in.”
Prior to securing the DFA deal, Brison spent time getting as much exposure to the airport business as possible. He worked closely with other DFA partners, discovered resources to support his Airport Certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) certification, and developed relationships with the Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) and its members. Brison was even awarded the President’s Award from AMAC at its annual business conference in 2019.
He believes his first airport contract is the result of relentless hard work, strategic vision, and unwavering perseverance, setting the stage for a bold new chapter in travel retail. He advises entrepreneurs interested in airports to learn as much as possible, ask questions, look at everything as an opportunity to grow, and be bold.
“What’s amazing about our project at the New Terminal One is not only the opportunity to set a new standard in the U.S. for customers, but to create that experience by partnering with amazing new minority entrepreneurs,” said Ian Carter, URW VP, JFK. “We’re thrilled to welcome Brison and are committed to supporting him along this exciting journey.”
Partnering with one of the top brands in the world wasn’t a coincidence. Hardin was strategic in growing his relationship with the global company and working hard to land his first airport contract. In the coming years, he, alongside his Director of Operations, Cresia Neal, will be looking to partner with other minority groups to educate and develop future industry leaders.
