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Tonja Pastorelle
Airport Concessions Consultant, ACDBE Partner to InMotion Entertainment, Potbelly Sandwich Shops and Garrett Popcorn
Professional Background
Tonja Pastorelle is a vibrant and seasoned professional in the airport concessions industry, with over 20 years of rich experience under her belt. Her vibrant enthusiasm for airports is not just about travel; it encompasses building valuable businesses and partnerships in this unique sector. Tonja has worn many hats throughout her illustrious career, serving as a landlord, an operator, and a consultant, which has given her a well-rounded perspective on the industry.
Tonja is the driving force behind the Pastorelle Marketing Group (PMG), where she successfully leads three key divisions: Airport concessions business development, proposal writing, and ACDBE partnerships. Her consultancy services are tailored to assist clients in finding new leasing spaces, responding to Requests for Proposals (RFPs), and ultimately triumphing in winning proposals. Tonja focuses on increasing her clients' visibility to industry insiders and strategically building a network of stores throughout the United States. Her work is instrumental in helping brands navigate the intricacies of airport concessions and achieve substantial growth in this competitive market.
One of her proud achievements includes becoming ACDBE certified in several states, including Illinois, New York/New Jersey, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Florida, Colorado, and California. This certification not only enables her to create meaningful retail, service, or food partnerships but also establishes PMG as a reputable entity in the airport concessions industry.
Education and Achievements
Tonja received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree from DePaul University, a foundation that has greatly supported her career trajectory in marketing and business development. Her education equips her with a deep understanding of market dynamics, brand strategy, and customer engagement which are all critical skills in the airport retail space.
Throughout her career, Tonja has held several prestigious positions including:
- Director of Marketing & Product Development at The Grove, Inc. (TGI) - In this role, she was accountable for developing innovative marketing strategies and product offerings that maximized business opportunities.
- President at Pastorelle Marketing Group - Here, she has successfully led the firm in offering strategic consultancy services that focus primarily on airport concessions. Her leadership has been pivotal in helping her clients achieve their business goals.
- Senior Assistant Director of Retail Operations at Airport Retail Management - Tonja’s experience in this capacity gave her an excellent insight into retail operations within airports, enabling her to identify distinguished opportunities within airport stores and concessions.
With major partnerships such as those with InMotion Entertainment across multiple locations in major airports like O'Hare International and Denver International Airports, as well as collaborations with Potbelly Sandwich Shops, Tonja continues to demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to enhancing airport experiences and services.
Notable Partnerships and Ventures
In striving to increase brand visibility and reach, Tonja proudly partners with a range of successful businesses:
- InMotion Entertainment - Tonja has established ACDBE partnerships in three sites at O'Hare International Airport, one at Denver International, and another in Newark’s Terminal B. These locations are pivotal in increasing access to high-quality products for travelers.
- Potbelly Sandwich Shops - Tonja collaborates with Potbelly in Boston Logan Airport's B terminal and plans to open another location in terminal C later this year. This expansion illustrates her commitment to offering delicious and convenient dining options to travelers.
- Garrett Popcorn Shops - Her newest venture partners PMG as the retail partner for Garrett Popcorn in Chicago O'Hare’s Terminal 5, signifying a blend of quality snacks and the excitement of travel.
Tonja's dedication and passion for the airport industry are deeply rooted. She finds great joy in building networks of stores across the United States while making significant contributions to the airport concessions sector.
Contributions to the Industry
With a commitment to enhancing the airport experience for travelers, Tonja significantly contributes to the airports' business ecosystem through her consultancy and collaborative ventures. Her ability to foster relationships and build solid partnerships in the industry has earned her recognition and respect among her peers. Tonja’s dedication to nurturing receiving clients and exposing brands to millions of modern consumers is commendable. The airports serve as a vibrant hub where she can showcase her skills and expand networks that benefit both retailers and travelers alike.
As a concerted advocate for women and minority-owned businesses in the airport concessions space, Tonja's insights and initiatives can create pathways for success for aspiring entrepreneurs and established companies alike, all while shaping the future of airport experiences.
In her own words, Tonja expresses her gratitude for the immense support and friendships she has garnered through her work in the airport industry. Her enthusiasm and vibrant energy not only fuels her own career but inspire countless others who work alongside or are mentored by her.
For those interested in learning more about the airports industry, business development in airport concessions, or opportunities related to ACDBE partnerships, Tonja encourages inquiries and networking. Her motto, “Fly well!”, encapsulates her vision for transforming airport experiences and expanding opportunities for brands and consumers alike.
