"Most airports have one or several major concessionaires who build and operate vendor premises through licensing agreements or subleases. But at the Port of Portland, which manages PDX [Portland International Airport], we don't do that, says Chris Czarnecki, Director of Business and Properties at PDX. Most of our contracts are direct leases with the owners of each business, and that creates a more authentic experience for travelers while helping keep revenue inside our region."
"The Port of Portland is on a mission to use its resources, such as PDX, to make economic growth accessible to everyone in our region. And we had the opportunity to demonstrate that commitment with the renovation of the main terminal, which created 24 new spaces for restaurants and shops. Each of these spaces will be occupied by a local brand and 60% of them are owned by women and minorities, Czarnecki points out."
"This model has been perpetuated for decades and seemed impossible to change. But in Portland, Oregon, they have decided to give it a try. The stores at the new airport terminal are 100% local, the prices are exactly the same as in Portland itself, and the results seem to indicate that soon they won't be the only ones trying to break with a model that makes millions of passengers angry."
Portland International Airport renovated its main terminal in 2024 and filled 24 new retail spaces exclusively with local brands. Prices at terminal shops match city prices, reversing typical airport markups. The Port of Portland uses direct leases with business owners rather than large concessionaires, retaining regional revenue and creating an authentic traveler experience. Sixty percent of new retail spaces are owned by women and minorities. Programs prioritize small businesses and include a pop-up store initiative to increase opportunities for local entrepreneurs. The terminal's retail mix is 100% local, reflecting a mission to make economic growth accessible across the region.
Read at english.elpais.com
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