Fivestar Gourmet Expands to DTW: The Opportunity Ahead

Pentastar Aviation recently expanded our award-winning Fivestar Gourmet catering operation to Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) through the acquisition of Gourmet Airfare, a longtime provider of private aviation catering at the airport.

The acquisition establishes Fivestar’s first operating location at DTW and strengthens our team’s presence across southeast Michigan. The expansion also creates new opportunities for the Fivestar team while reinforcing our commitment to premium aviation hospitality.

Ben Hammond, Vice President of FBO Services, Jackie Gawne, who oversees Fivestar Gourmet operations at DTW and Oakland County International Airport (PTK), and Becky Hutchings, who leads the DTW Fivestar Gourmet team, share their perspective on the transition to DTW and what customers can expect moving forward.
 

Why is expanding to DTW such an important milestone for Fivestar?

 
Ben: This is an exciting opportunity because it builds on the service we’ve already been providing in the Detroit region while expanding our capabilities and growing our team. We’ve spent years building a reputation for quality, consistency and service.

This next step allows us to better support customers at DTW and throughout the surrounding airports, while creating new opportunities for our employees to grow their careers.
 

What will stay the same for customers now that Fivestar is serving DTW?

 
Ben: Customers can expect the same attention to detail they’ve always received from Fivestar. Our operations rely on scratch-made cooking, customized menus based on each customer’s preferences and flawless execution of each order.

Whether someone orders breakfast for a flight crew or catering for a professional sports team, our goal is always to deliver an exceptional experience.
 

How have you worked with the Gourmet Airfare team to make the acquisition seamless?

 
Ben: One of the things we’ve appreciated most throughout this process is how collaborative everyone has been. The Gourmet Airfare team built strong relationships with their customers over many years, and we have a great deal of respect for that approach, given that it closely aligns with our own relationship-forward philosophy. They’ve been incredibly generous with their time and knowledge, helping us understand the operation so we can make this a smooth transition for both customers and employees.

Our goal isn’t to change what people have always appreciated about the service. It’s to build on that foundation while introducing the Fivestar standards, resources and customer experience.

Jackie, you’ll now oversee both Fivestar locations. What are you most excited about?

 
Jackie: I’m excited to help bring two great teams together! Every person on our team cares about doing things the right way and helping one another succeed.

As we grow, it’s important that we keep the culture that’s made Fivestar successful while creating opportunities for others to step into leadership roles. Career development is something Pentastar has always encouraged, and I’m grateful to be part of such a supportive environment.
 

Becky, you’ll be leading day-to-day operations at DTW. What does that opportunity mean to you?

 
Becky: It’s a chance to build something special from day one. Crafting delicious meals and curated menus is only one part of what we do. Success comes from communication, teamwork and making sure every order leaves the kitchen exactly the way it should. I’m excited to work alongside our talented team and create the same unmatched experience at this location that our customers have come to expect from Fivestar.
 

You serve travelers with diverse needs and taste profiles, including individuals, families, groups and teams. How does our team navigate unique requests?

 
Ben: Every day is different, and that’s what makes this business fun. One order might be for a family heading on vacation, while the next is for a large group with dozens of customized meals and specific nutritional requirements.

Our team enjoys those challenges because everyone works together to make it happen. Drive isn’t something you can teach –– it comes from having people who genuinely care about the customers and take pride in their work.
 

What does this expansion say about where Fivestar is headed?

 
Jackie: This growth gives us the opportunity to share what we’ve built with more customers while continuing to raise the bar for ourselves. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished, and we’re even more excited about what’s ahead!

Becky: Every meal we prepare represents Pentastar and Fivestar. That’s something our team takes seriously. We’re excited to welcome customers at DTW and show them the same hospitality, creativity and attention to detail that define the Fivestar experience.

Ben: At the end of the day, this business is about people. It’s so incredibly meaningful to make our meals part of someone’s journey, supporting our customers and allowing our team the space to do creative culinary work they can be proud of and celebrate each day.

Expanding to DTW is another step forward, and we’re looking forward to seeing where it takes us.

To learn more about Fivestar Gourmet and explore our full catering menu, visit pentastar.aero/fbo/fivestar-gourmet/.

Whether you’re planning a private flight or coordinating travel for a large group, our Fivestar team is ready to help curate an exceptional in-flight dining experience.