2019 Airport Business Top 40 Under 40 Meredith Genochio

Meredith Genochio joined Tastes on the Fly in 2001 and has since moved her way through the ranks to chief operating officer.

Genochio never realized she could make a vocation in aviation until she received her first restaurant job in an airport. She has always been mesmerized by the travel industry.

“Airports were a magical place to me as a kid to visit and see all the people, wondering where they were going, who they were and realizing you could get anywhere in the world.” Genochio said.

At Tastes on the Fly, Genochio drives the importance of business behind hospitality. She creates new innovative ways to help improve the quality of the airport with local brands that best represent the area.

“I think one thing that we can improve on right now is the green efforts and sustainability, as well as more passenger friendly regulations for air travel including seat comfortability, minimum leg room, service and communication training for the TSA,” Genochio said.

Tastes on the Fly has won every major airport concession award including Best Overall Operator and Best Customer Service under Genochio’s guidance.

“Being on the concessions side of the aviation industry, I naturally love caring for the traveling public. I am proud to be part of an organization that provides exceptional guest experiences by introducing authentic local and artisan brands to the airport environment. We strive to be an oasis for travelers during what is often a stressful journey.” Genochio said.

Genochio launched Tastes on the Fly’s participation in Project Bread’s annual Walk for Hunger, adopt a family programs during the holidays, coat drives through One Warm Coat and a summer culinary program for at risk youth through the YMCA. She has also been involved in the federal WOTC program which encourages employers to hire persons who are disabled, veterans and long-term unemployed.

Genochio loves to provide opportunities for others while developing new creative skills to put into her craftsmanship.

“Passengers drive the industry,” Genochio said. “The best passenger experience comes from cohesive and mutually beneficial partnerships between the airport authority and all airport tenants and departments. I would love to see greater collaboration between these entities. They must understand each other’s obstacles, seek mutual resolutions and support one another.”