Airport Experience® News - Retail Issue 2026

8

16

22

28

5 Letter From The Editor 6 Data Check

16 Makers In The Spotlight In specialty retail stores throughout North American airports, not only are local makers gaining more representation, their stories are being told through signage, in-person event and other activations. 22 Duty Free Dynamism Duty free retail in North American airports has typically lagged behind similar stores in Europe and Asia, but operators are gaining traction with unique product ranges, special events and alluring store designs. 28 What’s In A Name? Looking to maximize non-aeronautical revenues, some airports are testing the waters on selling naming rights to parts of their airport complexes.

New data from research firm Incisive shows that personalization and digital integration are important factors determining retail success. 8 Latest Buzz Salt Lake City International Airport’s Phase 4 of the New SLC capital improvement effort opens in October, bringing the full vision of the redevelopment together in one connected facility for the first time.

32 Industry Insights Anne Saxton, director of concessions and business development at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, shares the airport’s approach to strategic partnerships.

35 Advertising Index 36 Before You Take Off

12 Director’s Chair Sacramento International Airport Director Cindy Nichol is overseeing a range of improvements, including a nearly complete overhaul of the airport’s food and beverage program.

FIFA World Cup-branded merchandise proved to be a big boon to Prepango, which activated game-specific automated retail in key cities this summer.

2

AX NEWS SEPTEMBER 2026