Edmonton International Airport (YEG) has unveiled the newly refurbished Edmonton Duty Free stores, a project spearheaded by Aer Rianta International (ARI). The revitalization of these retail spaces aims to enhance the travel experience, blending local culture with world-class offerings to create a unique and memorable shopping destination for travelers.
The grand unveiling of the refreshed stores took place last week, in the presence of ARI leadership, including CEO Ray Hernan and Chief Operations & Business Development Officer Nuno Amaral. Joining them were ARI North America General Manager Glen Morgan, along with Edmonton International Airport executives, Vice President of Passenger Experience and Terminal Operations Carmen Donnelly, and Director of Commercial Development & Advertising Daphne Shelton.
A Local Touch to Global Retail
Located in YEG’s Domestic-International Departures Lounge and US Departures Lounge, the Edmonton Duty Free stores underwent significant upgrades starting in January 2024. The redesign incorporates elements inspired by Edmonton’s local culture, history, and landmarks, emphasizing ARI’s commitment to a “sense of place” in its retail spaces.
Among the standout features are a bespoke swing, inspired by Edmonton’s secret River Valley swing, and a replica dinosaur fossil hanging from the ceiling, paying homage to the city’s rich history of paleontological discoveries. Additionally, lush greenery throughout the stores reflects Edmonton’s River Valley, the largest urban park in North America, while vintage photos of Jasper Avenue evoke the city’s vibrant past.
“We wanted to create an authentic and memorable experience for shoppers,” said Glen Morgan, ARI North America General Manager. “Edmonton has a rich and unique heritage, and the new stores encapsulate the essence of this vibrant city. We’ve cultivated a great range of brands and products to cater to the evolving passenger demographic traveling through the airport, and we will continue to work closely with our partners at Edmonton International Airport to enhance the overall airport experience.”
Curated Products with Edmonton in Mind
The revamped duty-free stores feature a mix of premium international brands and locally sourced Edmonton products, offering travelers an authentic taste of the region. One notable addition is the liquor and ice wine collections by hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, a name synonymous with Edmonton during his years with the Edmonton Oilers.
“Our partnership with ARI plays a significant role in ensuring our passengers enjoy a world-class travel experience,” said Carmen Donnelly, YEG’s Vice President of Passenger Experience and Terminal Operations. “YEG is a gateway to the world, and part of the travel journey is ensuring our passengers have access to luxury shopping and savings as they travel.”
Edmonton International Airport: A Vital Gateway
Edmonton International Airport plays a crucial role in connecting the Edmonton region to the world and driving economic growth. In 2023, YEG welcomed 7.5 million passengers, recovering over 90% of its pre-pandemic traffic levels. The airport contributes $4.9 billion in economic output and supports more than 21,000 jobs, reinforcing its significance as a regional hub.
Sustainability and Future Growth
YEG’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040. Recent collaborations with partners, such as Toyota Canada, include plans to introduce hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles to Alberta’s roadways. These initiatives align with the airport’s broader vision of environmental stewardship and innovation.
