Airport Experience® News - Retail & Services Issue 2025

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14 The News & Gift Evolution Travel essentials remain the backbone of airport retail, but nothing remains steady. Selection and store style are evolving to meet shifting traveler demands. 20 Apparel Makes Its Mark Apparel has typically been a tough-sell in airports, but some operators are bucking the trend with local, unique offerings. Others rely on excellent execution of long-time airport concepts and continue to gain traction. 26 Build-Out Balancing Act Rising prices on building materials, higher labor costs and general inflationary pressures are driving up concessions build-out prices. On top of that, volatile tariff policies are adding a new level of unpredictability to the process.

4 Letter From The Editor 6 Data Check

32 One-on-One Huw Crwys-Williams, the new CEO of WH Smith North America, is leading the company’s growth efforts. New stores are coming on stream and RFP responses are in the works as the company seeks to reach a goal of 20% of the North American airport retail market. 34 Industry Insights Plaza Premium Group shares its approach to tackling food waste using AI technology. 36 In The Spotlight Johnston & Murphy has bucked the trend and continued to thrive in airport retail. Now the goal is to double its airport store footprint by 2030.

The ACRP published new guidance on incorporating technology into airport concessions, offering a range of potential solutions that can enhance the traveler experience. 8 Latest Buzz The Dallas Fort Worth International Airport campus is growing and changing, the result of a $12 billion capital program currently underway. Concessions are a huge focus, and operators are bringing their best to the world’s third-busiest airport. 12 Director’s Chair Calgary International Airport CEO Chris Dinsdale is leading a domestic terminal refresh designed to bring the aging terminal up to the standard of its international counterpart.

39 Advertising Index 40 Before You Take Off

Most airport directors spend time traversing the airport terminals they oversee. Houston Airport System Director Jim Szczesniak makes it a multiple-times-a-week habit.

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AX NEWS SEPTEMBER 2025