Hard work makes the dreams of the motivated entrepreneur come true. Fourteen years after Warren M. Thompson created Thompson Hospitality Services, his burger company brb (Be Right Burger) has become a haven for international travelers and homegrown frequent fliers. The restaurant opened in Washington, D.C.’s Dulles International Airport Oct. 1. Those who lift off or land at Gate 18 in Concourse C now have a chance to devour the popular burger at a venue known for letting its customers mix and match all the toppings. “We are excited to bring brb to the airport retail environment,†said Warren Thompson, president and chairman of Thompson Hospitality, in a press statement. “Having successfully operated branded and contract service locations, we understand the increasingly sophisticated restaurant guest and their needs across a variety of dining occasions. Be Right Burger will allow the traveler an opportunity to experience convenience and quality with a unique guest focus tailored to their particular needs.â€
In 2010, Black Enterprise recognized Thompson Hospitality as Company of the Year. Guided by six “simple standards,†Thompson Hospitality prides itself on celebrating diversity — among its employees, giving back to communities, being flexible to clients and accountable for its actions, along with providing world class service through high quality food. With the mission of providing positivity to “One guest, once client, one team member at a time,†Thompson’s American Tap Room will open at Reagan National Airport later this month. American Tap Room and brb mark the airport debut locations for Thompson Hospitality.
The delicious Dulles Airport deal comes through Concessions International, a top food and beverage concessionary company in the U.S, and its joint venture with Atlanta-based MBC Concessions — an airport concessions disadvantaged business enterprise. Brb is CI’s first entry into the Washington, D.C., market after operating eateries in eight airports in the U.S. and Virgin Islands. This also marks its fifth restaurant opening this year. A whopping six more are planned before the year is through. “Washington, D.C., has been a target market for us for years,†says Donata Russell Major, CI’s CEO. “The brb concept is a great addition to our portfolio and a good first step as we enter the Washington, D.C., airports.â€
But it all began with Thompson Hospitality Services and Warren Thompson, a brother with a dream, a plan, and the willpower to be a visionary entrepreneur and to make his goals come true.
To be among like-minded visionary entrepreneurs, be sure to attend the 2015 Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference + Expo hosted by Nationwide, May 13-16, at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta. Expect innovative sessions, high-powered speakers, and an early peek at the products, trends, and services you’ll need to stay ahead of the curve. Be sure to enter our Elevator Pitch Competition to qualify for the $10,000 grand prize. To register and find out more, visit www.blackenterprise.com/ec/