Calgary, Alberta – The Authority welcomes three new concepts to YYC, featuring local vendors, artists and internationally-known brands, in partnership with WH Smith North America.
The Calgary Airport Authority is thrilled to announce the arrival of WH Smith North America, a renowned leader in the airport retail sector, to YYC Calgary International Airport. Opening three distinct stores - Elbow River Exchange, Frontier Provisions, and InMotion – The Authority’s partnership with WH Smith North America elevates the travel experience for YYC’s guests while the reflecting the essence of our vibrant region.
Among these new concepts, Elbow River Exchange honours the rich heritage of our region, emphasizing the significance of the Elbow River to the Indigenous peoples who have been the caretakers of this land. At the heart of Elbow River Exchange is a captivating mural by Indigenous artist Keegan Starlight of the Tsuut’ina Nation. The artwork reflects the significance of the land we share with Indigenous peoples and encapsulates our commitment to preserving and sharing Indigenous culture.
“Unveiling this commissioned piece from Keegan Starlight is an incredible way to kick-off our exciting new partnership with WH Smith,” said Chris Niergarth, General Manager of Commercial & Retail Development. “Introducing this international retail leader, WH Smith, to the Calgary market is a privilege, and we look forward to continuing to strengthen our collaboration. With their support, YYC is thrilled to showcase a talented local artist and uplift creators in our own community, all while providing guests with excellent retail options for their travel essentials.”
In addition to Elbow River Exchange, WH Smith North America introduces Frontier Provisions and InMotion at YYC. Frontier Provisions pays homage to Alberta’s vast prairies, offering a meticulously curated selection of products alongside gourmet grab-and-go options. Meanwhile, InMotion, the premier electronics retailer in airports worldwide, showcases the latest technology innovations from leading brands around the world.
We are delighted to see WH Smith North America’s commitment to supporting local vendors, with offerings from esteemed businesses such as Calgary Heritage Coffee, Chocolate Lab Calgary, Poko Popcorn, and more available at Elbow River Exchange and Frontier Provisions.
Toby Keir, CEO of WH Smith North America, remarked, “This project perfectly aligns with our company’s mission to craft thoughtful and distinctive shopping experiences that resonate with the essence of each city we serve. We are privileged to share the story and history of Calgary through one of our inaugural concepts in this market.”
As our partnership continues to grow, we eagerly anticipate unveiling new concepts in collaboration with WH Smith North America in the coming months.
About The Calgary Airport Authority:
The Calgary Airport Authority is a not-for-profit organization incorporated under the Regional Airports Authorities Act of Alberta. The Authority is responsible for the management, operation and development of YYC Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Springbank Airport (YBW). The Authority’s commitment to safety remains a top priority. Our airports are important economic generators for the city, region and province, supporting thousands of jobs and generating billions in GDP through associated economic activity. The Authority was also recognized as one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 2024.
About WH Smith North America:
WH Smith is a leading global travel retailer with over 1,700 stores across 30 countries worldwide. WH Smith North America, incorporating Marshall Retail Group (MRG) and InMotion, represents over half of the Company’s international store estate, with c.320 specialty retail stores located in airports and resorts across North America.
MRG prides itself on creating unique experiences for customers by developing distinctive retail store concepts that feature and highlight the local culture, community, and lifestyle of the cities in which they are located. InMotion Entertainment Group is the largest airport-based electronics retailer in travel locations globally, with more than 120 locations throughout the United States. With access and insight into the latest technologies for business and leisure travelers, InMotion offers lifestyle products and electronics that include a wide breadth of headphones, mobile power, Bluetooth speakers and travel accessories. Follow WH Smith North America and InMotion on LinkedIn.
Media Contacts
The Calgary Airport Authority
media@yyc.com
403-735-5899
Photos available upon request
Kirvin Doak Communications
WHSmithNorthAmericaPR@kirvindoak.com
702-737-3100