The New Terminal One at JFK showcases local representation through thoughtfully selected products, homegrown businesses, and even partnerships with local joint venture operators.
James Phillips, owner of Queens-based BBJ Concessions, brings a unique point of view and skill set to his partnership with Duty Free Americas (DFA), which is creating nearly 20,000 square feet of duty-free shopping featuring iconic global brands alongside New York City and Queens-based artisanal products.
Phillips began his career in airports after earning a degree in architecture from Howard University, which led him to roles contributing to concessions program design at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and San Francisco International Airport.
While Phillips moved on to start his own architecture firm focused on restaurants, the experience of working in an airport left a lasting impression. Before long, he was back in airports working with a restaurateur opening in an airport. Then a conversation about the airport concessions business led to pursuing his Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) certification in 2017, which opened doors to networking with prime operators and the chance to bid on contracts.
James had the opportunity to meet with Duty Free Americas’ senior leadership, including Jerome Falic, CEO of Duty Free Americas, and Justin Douglas, Chief Financial Officer of the Falic Group, owners of DFA. Impressed by their programs and business approach, James pursued a relationship that ultimately resulted in a joint venture partnership with DFA at the New Terminal One.
When James isn’t busy pursuing airport concessions business, he turns his attention to his family-run funeral home, where he serves as the chief operating officer overseeing daily operations. The funeral home has called Jamaica, Queens, home since its establishment in 1929.
“I am unapologetic that I am from New York, I am a Queens boy and am thrilled to be a part of New Terminal One,” he said. “Our duty-free offering is going to be amazing and unique. As a small business rooted in Jamaica, Queens, it’s an honor to represent our community on a global stage and showcase the spirit of Queens to the world."
It took James almost eight years after becoming ACDBE certified to land his first joint venture partnership. He advises aspiring airport entrepreneurs to start by building relationships with real independent operators and gaining a clear understanding of what it truly takes to succeed in the airport environment. From securing capital to managing staffing, James emphasizes that the learning curve is steep, and it takes time to get it right.
“Having an entrepreneur born and raised right here in Queens participate in his first joint venture partnership as part of our New Terminal One concessions program is a great success story,” said Ian Carter, URW VP at JFK. “It reflects our commitment to partnering with the local community and supporting the next generation of airport operators. James brings a wealth of knowledge, a fresh perspective, and genuine enthusiasm to the DFA team. We’re thrilled to welcome this exciting new class of partners.”
James is now focused on launching his own airport concepts.
