May 19, 22, 8:15 am
Last edit by: WineCountryUA
United Opens Its Largest Club in the Country
Photos(1)
New, 30,000 sq.-ft. United ClubSM at Newark Liberty International Airport offers more modern United brand experience with views of the Manhattan skyline, close to 500 seats, spa-like shower suites and a barista-staffed coffee shop
Opening comes just before Memorial Day, one of the busiest travel weekends of the year
CHICAGO, May 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- United Airlines today announced the opening of its new, nearly 30,000 square-foot United Club location at Newark Liberty International Airport, offering travelers a modern design, enhanced amenities and culinary offerings, locally-sourced art and furniture pieces and views of the Manhattan skyline. Located in Terminal C3 near gate C123, this club is the largest club in United's network, and is opening just in time for the Memorial Day holiday, which the airline expects will be one of its busiest travel weekends so far this year.
"As more and more customers return to the skies, United is committed to delivering a superior customer experience on and off the plane, especially in increasingly crowded airports," said Aaron McMillan, United's managing director of hospitality and planning. "Our new Newark Club location is carefully designed with the customer at the forefront with thoughtful touches like murals and dcor that reflect the local community. This design theme and commitment to creating a locally-inspired experience will set the precedent for future club openings and renovations across our network."
The Newark United Club location features a new design and reflects a modern take on the United Club experience. It showcases many firsts for the club, as well as existing premium offering, including the following:
"The Newark Museum of Art is honored to be a part of this remarkable tribute to our community and our city," said Linda Harrison, The Newark Museum of Art's director and CEO. "May these tremendous artworks inspire and remind our residents and visitors of Newark's role as a cultural hub for artistic excellence and community cultivation. We are so proud to contribute to this exciting unveiling and pay homage to our special city with these two extraordinary works of art."
"Artists like Gilbert Hsiao and Dahlia Elsayed have a gift, which is to make the world new for us over and over again," said Emma Wilcox, Gallery Aferro's co-founder. "Gallery Aferro is thrilled to see these acclaimed alumni of our residency and fellowship program gain a new global audience of travelers with this project."
The Newark United Club location is the first of a series of United Club locations to open with the new club design and amenities. It's part of United's ongoing commitment to renovate and introduce new United Club locations throughout its network and provide a more modern United brand experience. For more information on United Club locations, visit united.com/unitedclub.
Photos(1)
New, 30,000 sq.-ft. United ClubSM at Newark Liberty International Airport offers more modern United brand experience with views of the Manhattan skyline, close to 500 seats, spa-like shower suites and a barista-staffed coffee shop
Opening comes just before Memorial Day, one of the busiest travel weekends of the year
CHICAGO, May 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- United Airlines today announced the opening of its new, nearly 30,000 square-foot United Club location at Newark Liberty International Airport, offering travelers a modern design, enhanced amenities and culinary offerings, locally-sourced art and furniture pieces and views of the Manhattan skyline. Located in Terminal C3 near gate C123, this club is the largest club in United's network, and is opening just in time for the Memorial Day holiday, which the airline expects will be one of its busiest travel weekends so far this year.
"As more and more customers return to the skies, United is committed to delivering a superior customer experience on and off the plane, especially in increasingly crowded airports," said Aaron McMillan, United's managing director of hospitality and planning. "Our new Newark Club location is carefully designed with the customer at the forefront with thoughtful touches like murals and dcor that reflect the local community. This design theme and commitment to creating a locally-inspired experience will set the precedent for future club openings and renovations across our network."
The Newark United Club location features a new design and reflects a modern take on the United Club experience. It showcases many firsts for the club, as well as existing premium offering, including the following:
- The largest club in our network: The club features more than 480 seats across spaces for lounging, working, private dining and socializing.
- Spa-like showers: Members can freshen-up in one of the six, spa-like shower suites at Newark, stocked with Sunday Riley products.
- Coffee shop experience: Staffed by a barista ready to prepare their favorite hand-crafted drinks, flyers can get inspired at the full-service coffee bar, featuring illy signature blend of 100 percent Arabica beans, in addition to culinary offerings in all United Clubs, like complimentary beverages and snacks.
- Modern, Newark-inspired design: Flyers can enjoy unmatched views of the Manhattan skyline amidst locally-sourced furniture pieces and dcor, as well as the new design and color scheme that will be rolled-out in future new and refurbished clubs. The space also includes modern amenities, like self-scan entry for quick access and free, high-speed Wi-Fi.
- Sustainable, green materials: As part of the airline's sustainability commitment, the Club is designed with sustainable materials and features, such as WaterSense-rated fixtures, enhanced indoor air quality, green cleaning and more.
"The Newark Museum of Art is honored to be a part of this remarkable tribute to our community and our city," said Linda Harrison, The Newark Museum of Art's director and CEO. "May these tremendous artworks inspire and remind our residents and visitors of Newark's role as a cultural hub for artistic excellence and community cultivation. We are so proud to contribute to this exciting unveiling and pay homage to our special city with these two extraordinary works of art."
"Artists like Gilbert Hsiao and Dahlia Elsayed have a gift, which is to make the world new for us over and over again," said Emma Wilcox, Gallery Aferro's co-founder. "Gallery Aferro is thrilled to see these acclaimed alumni of our residency and fellowship program gain a new global audience of travelers with this project."
The Newark United Club location is the first of a series of United Club locations to open with the new club design and amenities. It's part of United's ongoing commitment to renovate and introduce new United Club locations throughout its network and provide a more modern United brand experience. For more information on United Club locations, visit united.com/unitedclub.
New EWR C123 UC has opened - 19 May 2022
May 21, 22, 7:09 am
#91
Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: DAY
Programs: UA 1K 1MM; Marriott LT Titanium; Amex MR; Chase UR; Hertz PC; Global Entry
Posts: 9,711
Took some of the luster off that shiny ETC
But will definitely back to enjoy more of the new club today now...
May 21, 22, 11:49 am
#92
Join Date: Sep 2021
Programs: United 1K
Posts: 4
It is an amazing space - hope it stays amazing.
Locals like me got a kick out of this mention in the press release -
Modern, Newark-inspired design: Flyers can enjoy unmatched views of the Manhattan skyline amidst locally-sourced furniture pieces and dcor, as well as the new design and color scheme that will be rolled-out in future new and refurbished clubs. The space also includes modern amenities, like self-scan entry for quick access and free, high-speed Wi-Fi.
"Newark-inspired"??? I guess the definition of Newark-inspired is a nice view of Manhattan. And self-scan definitely isn't Newark-inspired in a state where you can't pump your own gas.
Locals like me got a kick out of this mention in the press release -
Modern, Newark-inspired design: Flyers can enjoy unmatched views of the Manhattan skyline amidst locally-sourced furniture pieces and dcor, as well as the new design and color scheme that will be rolled-out in future new and refurbished clubs. The space also includes modern amenities, like self-scan entry for quick access and free, high-speed Wi-Fi.
"Newark-inspired"??? I guess the definition of Newark-inspired is a nice view of Manhattan. And self-scan definitely isn't Newark-inspired in a state where you can't pump your own gas.
May 21, 22, 1:08 pm
#93
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: Pasadena, CA, USA
Posts: 2,338
We were in the new lounge yesterday (5/20, second day it was open) and I'll add a couple of very random notes:
Overall, a pretty club, the showers are very appreciated, and the food is decent. Hopefully they will continue to tweak things, but it was pretty good for a 2nd day. Staff were continuously picking up plates (although I miss having returns where I can discard a plate myself.) The number of seats will probably continue to be a problem as EWR just doesn't have enough lounge capacity.
Like I said, very random comments.
- Honestly, we didn't know it was being built, but wondered last week. We flew to Europe on 5/11 had had to trek from the C74 club to our departure C125 gate and it seemed like something was happening but we didn't investigate. What was rough on the return trip though was to arrive at B, walk to the C74 club, and then see the sign that it was closed for reno. As we walked to the new C123, I actually pulled the sign out more to the entrance of the C74 concourse that said the club was closed as it was turned in a way that made it less visible.
- For the self-scan entry, that worked pretty well. I'm Star Gold and a United Club member and the touchscreen at the gate prompted me if I was bringing in guest (0-2). Later, when I left to check at our departure gate and then return to the Club, it did not prompt me for guests on the 2nd entrance. And the gates make a slightly annoying alarm sound if someone tries to enter incorrectly (like you just tried to leave a clothing store with security tags still attached.)
- There is a wide variety of seating, but most of it was taken at a bit after 2pm on a Friday. While we were looking for seating, we saw there were showers, which was a nice surprise as I was dripping with sweat from the trek (I was carrying too many chocolate bars from Europe.) I thought United had given up showers in the regular clubs, so it was nice to seem them back and there was no wait. I was in Suite 6, and sometimes the water pressure would change as someone flushed or ran water in another suite, I assume. My husband was assigned Suite 1 and never experienced water pressure changes. I think each suite is a bit different as mine had a bigger, slightly higher granite bench attached to the sink (unless I'm misremembering) compared to the photo from MatthewLAX that has a lower, smaller wood bench. I would also say the towel rack and hooks are flipped in the picture of 1 vs 6. Not a big deal, but it is interesting that they aren't more cookie cutter.
- When I was done with my shower, I saw a group of 4 had commandeered the table and chairs in the suite reception area as a place to sit and eat. It took my husband and I a couple of minutes to find seats, but we lucked out. We were probably in the Club close to 4 hours, and there definitely was not enough seats, although there was a thunderstorm delay, so that may have contributed. Good views of the gates on that side and we were able to keep our eye on C121, which was our departure gate. We had some seats along the center wall and I tried to do some work, but I had to have my laptop in my lap. If you want to work and the lounge is crowded, you might have a hard time finding a good seat to work at. People were defiantly using the foosball table as a dining area and not playing; others moved garbage cans out of the way and grabbed random unused single seating to make makeshift seating clusters near pillars.
- Self-serve drinks: While the Coke Freestyle machines (slightly different style) had ice dispensers, there never seemed to have ice. To the left of them was a separate, large ice/water dispenser. I think it was designed for larger cups and it was tricky to get ice and have to push the sensor with your finger, as the cups are not big enough to press the button and not have ice go everywhere as it rushes out. With a regular/older Freestyle machine, I could get a drink and skip the ice as the beverage was cold, but the drinks out of these were pretty much room temperature. To the right of the Freestyle machines is an in-wall water bottle refilling station, but again, it isn't cold.
- Food: First, if they have thin, chocolate chip cookies, get them. Many of them. I find that nowadays, people screw up chocolate chip cookies but these were great. Lots of chocolate, not overbaked (almost crisp on the edges, with a soft center). Later, I heard multiple people ask servers where the cookies were when they transitioned to brownies only. I had a chicken sandwich and it was decent, although a hair dry overall. They had some gemelli pasta dish that I didn't understand as that was a bit dry too (like no sauce, maybe just the smallest bit of oil on it.) My husband liked the make your own taco bar.
Overall, a pretty club, the showers are very appreciated, and the food is decent. Hopefully they will continue to tweak things, but it was pretty good for a 2nd day. Staff were continuously picking up plates (although I miss having returns where I can discard a plate myself.) The number of seats will probably continue to be a problem as EWR just doesn't have enough lounge capacity.
Like I said, very random comments.
May 21, 22, 1:25 pm
#94
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: TOA
Programs: HH Diamond, Marriott LTPP/Platinum Premier, Hyatt Lame-ist, UA !K
Posts: 20,060
Locals like me got a kick out of this mention in the press release -
Modern, Newark-inspired design: Flyers can enjoy unmatched views of the Manhattan skyline amidst locally-sourced furniture pieces and dcor, as well as the new design and color scheme that will be rolled-out in future new and refurbished clubs. The space also includes modern amenities, like self-scan entry for quick access and free, high-speed Wi-Fi.
"Newark-inspired"??? I guess the definition of Newark-inspired is a nice view of Manhattan. And self-scan definitely isn't Newark-inspired in a state where you can't pump your own gas.
Modern, Newark-inspired design: Flyers can enjoy unmatched views of the Manhattan skyline amidst locally-sourced furniture pieces and dcor, as well as the new design and color scheme that will be rolled-out in future new and refurbished clubs. The space also includes modern amenities, like self-scan entry for quick access and free, high-speed Wi-Fi.
"Newark-inspired"??? I guess the definition of Newark-inspired is a nice view of Manhattan. And self-scan definitely isn't Newark-inspired in a state where you can't pump your own gas.
David
May 21, 22, 2:12 pm
#95
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: Delaware
Programs: UA Mileage Plus, Amtrak Guest Rewards
Posts: 1,327
Well I made it and the place is nothing short of amazing. While I've never been in a Polaris Lounge, from what I hear this might be on the same level, only laterally different. I went to the buffet at 10:45am and was disappointed that all they had were grilled chicken and grilled breakfast sandwiches. I soon realized that they were changing over to lunch and I later on had a salad and a pork carnitas wrap.
I had a major problem because of my trip to the lounge. I had checked bags that got claimed by baggage services, and it took me 90 minutes to get them. I'm sure some of it had to do with the cancelations from the storm yesterday but as usual, EWR fails again.
Back on the top of the UC, I took some photos. I also brought my 360 camera and took some photo-spheres, so I'll try and upload them as well.
In the meantime here's the basic floorplan. It's a complete throw-together and I'm doing it from memory on a simple paint and drawing program to please forgive the terrible artwork. Also please point out any corrections that are needed.
I had a major problem because of my trip to the lounge. I had checked bags that got claimed by baggage services, and it took me 90 minutes to get them. I'm sure some of it had to do with the cancelations from the storm yesterday but as usual, EWR fails again.
Back on the top of the UC, I took some photos. I also brought my 360 camera and took some photo-spheres, so I'll try and upload them as well.
In the meantime here's the basic floorplan. It's a complete throw-together and I'm doing it from memory on a simple paint and drawing program to please forgive the terrible artwork. Also please point out any corrections that are needed.
May 21, 22, 2:39 pm
#96
Join Date: May 2006
Location: New to BWI as of 2021; say hi if you're in the area!
Programs: UA 1K
Posts: 395
Well I made it and the place is nothing short of amazing. While I've never been in a Polaris Lounge, from what I hear this might be on the same level, only laterally different. I went to the buffet at 10:45am and was disappointed that all they had were grilled chicken and grilled breakfast sandwiches. I soon realized that they were changing over to lunch and I later on had a salad and a pork carnitas wrap.
I had a major problem because of my trip to the lounge. I had checked bags that got claimed by baggage services, and it took me 90 minutes to get them. I'm sure some of it had to do with the cancelations from the storm yesterday but as usual, EWR fails again.
Back on the top of the UC, I took some photos. I also brought my 360 camera and took some photo-spheres, so I'll try and upload them as well.
In the meantime here's the basic floorplan. It's a complete throw-together and I'm doing it from memory on a simple paint and drawing program to please forgive the terrible artwork. Also please point out any corrections that are needed.
I had a major problem because of my trip to the lounge. I had checked bags that got claimed by baggage services, and it took me 90 minutes to get them. I'm sure some of it had to do with the cancelations from the storm yesterday but as usual, EWR fails again.
Back on the top of the UC, I took some photos. I also brought my 360 camera and took some photo-spheres, so I'll try and upload them as well.
In the meantime here's the basic floorplan. It's a complete throw-together and I'm doing it from memory on a simple paint and drawing program to please forgive the terrible artwork. Also please point out any corrections that are needed.
May 21, 22, 3:27 pm
#97
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: Pasadena, CA, USA
Posts: 2,338
So the showers are between "More Tables in a separate room" and "Hot Bar" (basically behind the kitchen, which makes sense from a plumbing standpoint.)
There is very limited food service in "Lounge with Plush Couches", I think.
There is very limited food service in "Lounge with Plush Couches", I think.
May 21, 22, 3:38 pm
#98
Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: DAY
Programs: UA 1K 1MM; Marriott LT Titanium; Amex MR; Chase UR; Hertz PC; Global Entry
Posts: 9,711
Was back again today. Bar was wrapped again most of my visit. Going to be a struggle with overcrowding until the C74 club and/or the A terminal opens up.
The service counter inside also seems undersized for this size of a club. Only space for 3 agents to assist with travel issues. Even today, without any major irrops, there was a line at times.
Agree with the comments above, the new style soft-drink machines serve warm soda, and the large ice machine is always a mess, with ice going everywhere including on the floor. The "wet floor" sign is always there. Hopefully they figure out a new solution for this.
Food was just as good. For us frequent visitors, I imagine it will become monotonous over time, but not a real issue as long as they keep the quality of ingredients up.
These are all minor nits and observations. Overall, still a giant leap for passenger experience.
The service counter inside also seems undersized for this size of a club. Only space for 3 agents to assist with travel issues. Even today, without any major irrops, there was a line at times.
Agree with the comments above, the new style soft-drink machines serve warm soda, and the large ice machine is always a mess, with ice going everywhere including on the floor. The "wet floor" sign is always there. Hopefully they figure out a new solution for this.
Food was just as good. For us frequent visitors, I imagine it will become monotonous over time, but not a real issue as long as they keep the quality of ingredients up.
These are all minor nits and observations. Overall, still a giant leap for passenger experience.
May 21, 22, 6:32 pm
#100
Moderator: United Airlines; FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: SFO
Programs: UA Plat 1.9MM, Hyatt Discoverist, Marriott Plat/LT Gold, Hilton Silver, IHG Plat
Posts: 64,499
May 21, 22, 7:12 pm
#101
Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: WAS/TYO
Programs: UA 1K, AA EXP (3MM), DL PM, BONVOY TITANIUM, HYATT GLOBALIST, HILTON DIAMOND, IHG DIAMOND AMB, et al
Posts: 5,858
Crowding issue was much less pronounced tonight compared with Thursday (opening day) at exactly the same time (perhaps not surprising for a Saturday evening). There was a 10 minute wait (roughly a 30 person line) at the bottom of the escalator to enter, but once inside at 7:30pm it was only about 50% full. They seemed to be having electrical issues tonight (bathrooms lights were out for about 30 minutes and all the showers were closed). By 8:45pm, the lounge was practically empty.
With more space available tonight it's even easier to appreciate what a revolutionary positive change this lounge is for the United Club product. There's so much to like with the new C123 UC.
-FlyerBeek
Looks like I spoke prematurely... Apparently the reason the UC was so empty tonight is because the stopped all new entries after 7:40pm due to the electrical issues. They also closed the bar early (9pm) on account of the electrical issues. Fortunately, they aren't kicking out those of us who are already inside.
-FlyerBeek
With more space available tonight it's even easier to appreciate what a revolutionary positive change this lounge is for the United Club product. There's so much to like with the new C123 UC.
-FlyerBeek
Looks like I spoke prematurely... Apparently the reason the UC was so empty tonight is because the stopped all new entries after 7:40pm due to the electrical issues. They also closed the bar early (9pm) on account of the electrical issues. Fortunately, they aren't kicking out those of us who are already inside.
-FlyerBeek
Last edited by WineCountryUA; May 21, 22 at 8:29 pm Reason: merged update posts by same member
May 21, 22, 7:21 pm
#102
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: LAX
Programs: UA Plat MM, CM Plat, Amex Plat, Hertz CP, Hyatt Globalist, SPG Gold, Vons Club
Posts: 6,752
Bummer! Did UA supply you a room and meal vouchers? I know its weather.. How was the club today?
May 22, 22, 6:26 am
#103
Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: DAY
Programs: UA 1K 1MM; Marriott LT Titanium; Amex MR; Chase UR; Hertz PC; Global Entry
Posts: 9,711
Was back again today. Bar was wrapped again most of my visit. Going to be a struggle with overcrowding until the C74 club and/or the A terminal opens up.
The service counter inside also seems undersized for this size of a club. Only space for 3 agents to assist with travel issues. Even today, without any major irrops, there was a line at times.
Agree with the comments above, the new style soft-drink machines serve warm soda, and the large ice machine is always a mess, with ice going everywhere including on the floor. The "wet floor" sign is always there. Hopefully they figure out a new solution for this.
Food was just as good. For us frequent visitors, I imagine it will become monotonous over time, but not a real issue as long as they keep the quality of ingredients up.
These are all minor nits and observations. Overall, still a giant leap for passenger experience.
The service counter inside also seems undersized for this size of a club. Only space for 3 agents to assist with travel issues. Even today, without any major irrops, there was a line at times.
Agree with the comments above, the new style soft-drink machines serve warm soda, and the large ice machine is always a mess, with ice going everywhere including on the floor. The "wet floor" sign is always there. Hopefully they figure out a new solution for this.
Food was just as good. For us frequent visitors, I imagine it will become monotonous over time, but not a real issue as long as they keep the quality of ingredients up.
These are all minor nits and observations. Overall, still a giant leap for passenger experience.
Quote above was for 2nd visit. Remains a big step up, though still going to face overcrowding issues until C74 is remodeled and opened...so at least a year.
May 22, 22, 7:21 am
#104
Join Date: Sep 2010
Posts: 63
Was there yesterday morning around 9am. Side room as you enter was closed and the rest of the place was packed. Found a spot crowded in among strangers, good thing there’s no global pandemic going on. As I was leaving, the crowd had thinned and they had opened the side room. Bathroom was nice with lots of stalls but no toilet paper. Woman was in cleaning and replenishing supplies. Definitely a major improvement over the facilities in the old, now closed club.
Had a good breakfast sandwich which beat the microwaved Jimmy Dean sandwiches they used to put out in the old club. There was a buffet area but with limited food. Basically, scrambled egg whites and a toast bar. Two coffee machines and a separate coffee barista but lines to get coffee were long. As I was in line, the machines had to be serviced and reboot took a while. Person working on then never said a word about it, just took her time. Finally gave up and got coffee from the large dispenser of regular coffee. BTW, was in the LAS club and they had the new coffee machine as well. I thought the coffee was better from the new machines but there wasn’t a decaf option from what I saw.
Overall, an improvement over the old lounge but still a lot of bugs to work out. I saw comments saying this club was better than the Polaris lounge but not so in my opinion. Polaris club has better seating and food selection. Again, just my opinion.
Had a good breakfast sandwich which beat the microwaved Jimmy Dean sandwiches they used to put out in the old club. There was a buffet area but with limited food. Basically, scrambled egg whites and a toast bar. Two coffee machines and a separate coffee barista but lines to get coffee were long. As I was in line, the machines had to be serviced and reboot took a while. Person working on then never said a word about it, just took her time. Finally gave up and got coffee from the large dispenser of regular coffee. BTW, was in the LAS club and they had the new coffee machine as well. I thought the coffee was better from the new machines but there wasn’t a decaf option from what I saw.
Overall, an improvement over the old lounge but still a lot of bugs to work out. I saw comments saying this club was better than the Polaris lounge but not so in my opinion. Polaris club has better seating and food selection. Again, just my opinion.
May 22, 22, 7:36 am
#105
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: New York, NY
Programs: UA, AA, DL, Hertz, Avis, National, Hyatt, Hilton, SPG, Marriott
Posts: 9,241
No surprise re: the bugs, as it's clear there are still some kinks to work out. Hopefully they manage it well. Opening into a stretch of foul weather/IRROPS and increasing summer crowds means there is really no ramp-up period! As far as comparison to Polaris, I found the physical space to be more open and brighter than Polaris, and the interior design to be arguably preferable, but agree that there really isn't a comparison with regard to F&B, as it should be.
