Company earns wide recognition for retail innovation and customer service
LAS VEGAS – January, — WHSmith North America has earned finalist recognition across multiple categories in the upcoming Airport Experience Awards. The awards are presented by Airport Experience News and honor excellence in airport retail, dining, and customer experience.
This year’s nominations highlight WHSmith North America’s continued focus on strong customer service, innovative retail concepts, and meaningful local partnerships. As a result, the company stands out among large and small airport operators across North America.
Multiple finalist categories reflect broad performance
WHSmith North America received finalist recognition in several major award categories. Notably, the company earned finalist placement for Best Overall Retailer – Large Operator. This category recognizes retailers that deliver consistent quality, strong operations, and positive traveler experiences.
In addition, WHSmith North America was named a finalist for Retailer With the Highest Regard for Customer Service – Large Operators. This nomination reflects the company’s emphasis on service, training, and guest engagement across its airport locations.
Together, these honors underscore WHSmith North America’s ability to operate at scale while maintaining a traveler-focused approach.
Local concessions teams receive airport-specific recognition
Beyond company-wide honors, WHSmith North America also earned recognition for its local concessions teams. These nominations highlight how the company adapts its approach to fit each airport and community.
At large airports, WHSmith North America at LaGuardia Airport earned finalist status for Best Local Concessions Management Team. The nomination recognizes the team’s role in supporting local brands and delivering strong retail performance in a high-traffic environment.
Meanwhile, WHSmith North America at Palm Springs International Airport earned finalist recognition for Best Local Concessions Management Team – Medium/Small Airports. This nomination reflects the team’s ability to tailor retail offerings to regional travelers while maintaining strong service standards.
Local-inspired stores stand out across airports
Local storytelling and regional identity remain a major focus for WHSmith North America. As a result, several of its stores earned finalist recognition in the Best Local-Inspired Store categories.
In large airports, two WHSmith North America locations received finalist honors. Weller Book Works at Salt Lake City International Airport earned recognition for its strong local connection and curated selection. In addition, Motown Greatest Hits Travel Shop at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport was named a finalist for celebrating Detroit’s music legacy through retail.
At medium and small airports, three additional stores earned finalist placement. Oakland Supply Co. at Oakland International Airport was recognized for its regional design and product mix. Hello From Portland, operated with Brookwest Ventures LLC at Portland International Airport, also earned finalist status for highlighting local culture. Finally, Banff Collective at Calgary International Airport received recognition for reflecting the spirit of its surrounding region.
Leadership highlights team effort and partnerships
Company leadership emphasized the collective effort behind the nominations. Roderick I. McOwan, chief development officer of WHSmith North America, credited employees, partners, and collaborators for the recognition.
“These nominations reflect our team’s dedication to delivering a strong retail experience for travelers across North America,” McOwan said. “They also highlight our focus on customer service, local partnerships, and retail concepts that reflect each airport community.”
As a result, the nominations represent more than individual stores. They point to a broader strategy centered on relevance, service, and innovation.
Awards announcement set for industry conference
Winners of the Airport Experience Awards will be announced at the Airport Experience Conference later this year. The event brings together airport leaders, retailers, and concession operators from across the industry.
WHSmith North America congratulated all fellow finalists and expressed appreciation to its airport partners, employees, and vendors. According to the company, these relationships play a key role in delivering successful retail programs.
Company continues to expand North American presence
WHSmith operates as a global travel retailer with more than 1,700 stores in over 30 countries. In recent years, the company expanded its North American footprint through key acquisitions.
In 2018, WHSmith acquired InMotion, the largest airport-based technology retailer in North America. One year later, the company acquired Marshall Retail Group, a specialty retailer serving airports and resort destinations.
Today, WHSmith North America operates more than 340 specialty retail stores across airports and resorts in the U.S. and Canada. Overall, the company continues to focus on growth while adapting to evolving traveler needs.
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