THE GROVE, INC. AWARDED BEST OVERALL RESTAURATEUR AT 2026 AX AWARDS

Nashville, TN – March 12, 2026 – On Wednesday, February 25, this year’s Airport Experience Conference concluded with the AX Conference Awards Gala, where top performing airport concessionaires and retailers were honored in their respective categories.

Hundreds of nominations were submitted for nearly 40 award categories. The winners were ultimately selected by a committee of 24 industry executives – 12 concessions/brand executives and 12 airport executives, newly selected each year.

The Grove, Inc. was exceptionally honored to be named “Best Overall Restaurateur – Small Operators.” This award represents “a restaurateur who excels in every phase of operations, marketing, customer service, creativity and food quality.” There were five finalists selected for a final committee vote before the gala.

“All of us at The Grove, Inc are thrilled beyond measure to win Best Overall Restaurateur at AX! We are grateful for the continued support of our esteemed airport partners, brands, and loyal patrons across the country,” said Chief Executive Officer Nina Madonia. “AX represents excellence in operations, and for 45 years, that is what TGI is about. We are excited to be opening a dozen brand new locations in the next year – team work truly does make the dream work!”

Visit The Grove, Inc.’s restaurants in 11 airports and 2 railway stations throughout the country, and read the full list of AX winners at: https://www.airportxnews.com/industry-excellence-honored-at-ax-awards-gala/