Council approves unattended micro‑markets, coffee kiosk at Flagstaff Pulliam Airport

Flagstaff — The City Council on March 4 approved a concessionaire services license agreement with Highline Snack and Vending Inc. to install two micro‑markets and a pre‑security coffee kiosk at Flagstaff Pulliam Airport.

Brian Gull, Flagstaff airport director, presented the measure and said the airport has been without a staffed café since its last operator’s contract ended in 2023. Following two unsuccessful conventional café solicitations, staff pursued an unattended retail option. The selected proposer, Highline, will supply a pre‑security micro‑market (in the former café space) with a coffee kiosk, and a post‑security micro‑market in the secure passenger holding area.

Gull described micro‑markets as staffless vending installations that allow customers to scan a card to open secured cabinets; the system charges for items taken and refunds if items are returned. Micro‑markets permit fresh‑packaged sandwiches, salads and other perishable goods as well as travel accessories. Gull said the airport will receive 20% of gross quarterly receipts from the operation, plus an extra commission if annual sales top $120,000. Officials said they expect the vendors to be operational by April.

Councilmember Matthews moved to approve the license agreement and the city manager to execute the contracts; the motion passed unanimously.

Why staff recommended micro‑markets

- Airport solicitations in 2023 failed to attract a conventional café operator due to daily operating hours (the terminal opens 365 days and early morning departures) and high staffing costs for limited passenger volumes.

- Micro‑markets and the kiosk provide an unattended option that can offer fresh food and coffee without requiring a full staff presence. Airport staff and the visitor center will support stocking and oversight.

- The pre‑security space will also host a Discover Flagstaff visitor center on the opposite side of the renovated café area, creating a shared seating area between functions.

Action taken

Council approved the concessionaire services license agreement with Highline Snack and Vending Inc. to add two micro‑markets and a coffee kiosk at Flagstaff Pulliam Airport and authorized the city manager to execute necessary documents. Vote: unanimous.

Ending

Airport leaders said the micro‑markets and coffee kiosk will provide convenience for travelers — especially early morning departures — and offer fresh food options not available from conventional vending. The city will share revenue with the concessionaire based on gross receipts and performance thresholds.