LAS VEGAS — WHSmith North America is celebrating a major achievement after its Cascadia Collection at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) received the 2026 Best New News & Gift Concept Award from Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA).
The honor was presented during the 2026 ACI-NA Business of Airports Conference and recognizes excellence in airport retail, customer experience and concession innovation across North America.
Cascadia Collection stood out among competitors for creating a unique shopping experience that captures the culture, creativity and natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
The award further highlights WHSmith North America’s commitment to transforming airport retail into a meaningful part of the traveler journey.
Retail concept showcases the spirit of British Columbia
Located inside Vancouver International Airport, Cascadia Collection was designed to give travelers a strong sense of place from the moment they enter the store.
Rather than offering a traditional airport gift shop experience, the concept focuses on products that reflect the identity of British Columbia and Canada’s West Coast.
Visitors can browse locally inspired gifts, artisan products, travel essentials and merchandise that celebrates the region’s landscapes, culture and creative community.
As a result, passengers enjoy a shopping experience that feels connected to the destination rather than disconnected from it.
The concept also supports local makers and businesses while introducing travelers to products they may not discover elsewhere.
ACI-NA recognizes innovation and customer experience
The annual ACI-NA Airport Concessions Awards recognize airports, concessionaires and industry leaders that elevate the passenger experience through innovative retail and dining concepts.
Winning the Best New News & Gift Concept category places Cascadia Collection among the most successful new airport retail developments in North America.
According to industry leaders, today’s travelers seek authentic experiences that help them connect with the places they visit.
Airports continue investing in retail concepts that highlight local culture and create memorable moments for guests.
Cascadia Collection successfully delivers both objectives while maintaining a modern and welcoming shopping environment.
WHSmith North America celebrates the achievement
Huw Crwys-Williams, Chief Executive Officer of WHSmith North America, said the recognition reflects the dedication of the company’s team and its partnership with Vancouver International Airport.
“This recognition is a tremendous honor for our team and our partners at Vancouver International Airport,” Crwys-Williams said.
He explained that Cascadia Collection was created to showcase the unique character of British Columbia while delivering an exceptional guest experience.
Furthermore, he noted that the award validates the company’s vision of creating retail environments that tell meaningful stories about the communities they serve.
The recognition also reinforces WHSmith North America’s strategy of developing innovative retail concepts that connect travelers with local destinations.
Continued growth across North America
WHSmith North America continues to expand its presence throughout airports and resort destinations across the United States and Canada.
Through partnerships with airports, local artisans, suppliers and regional brands, the company develops retail experiences that go beyond traditional travel shopping.
Therefore, awards such as the ACI-NA Airport Concessions Award demonstrate how destination-focused retail concepts can enhance the overall airport experience.
For travelers passing through Vancouver International Airport, Cascadia Collection now stands as one of North America’s most celebrated airport retail destinations.
About WHSmith North America
WHSmith operates more than 1,700 travel retail stores in over 30 countries worldwide. WHSmith North America, which includes Marshall Retail Group and InMotion, operates more than 340 specialty retail stores in airports and resort destinations throughout North America.
Website: https://www.whsmithna.com
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