WH Smith North America Opens Two Original Retail Concepts at Edmonton International Airport

May 29, 2024

WH Smith North America, America’s leading specialty retailer in the airport marketplace, has opened two original retail stores at Edmonton International Airport (YEG): The Shoppes at Whyte and Postcards from Edmonton. These stores mark the company’s first of many locations planned for the airport, and each store has been designed to bring a touch of local Edmonton history and culture to travelers from around the world. 

Located in the airport’s Central Hall, The Shoppes at Whyte is a marketplace inspired by the historic, yet youthful, Whyte Avenue in Old Strathcona, one of Edmonton’s most beloved neighborhoods. Travelers are greeted by a vibrant hand-painted mural by renowned Edmonton artist, Adriana Cruces, adding a personal touch that celebrates local talent. The Shoppes at Whyte delivers a wide array of products including fresh grab-and-go items, artisanal food, snacks and beverages, along with wellness and beauty products, reading materials, tech gadgets, locally made gifts and more. 

Postcards from Edmonton reflects the stunning natural scenery and vibrant cultures of the city. Located near Gate 56, Postcards from Edmonton incorporates old suitcases and trunks to the shop’s theming, adding an element of vintage charm and adventure to the shopping experience. Packed with often-forgotten travel necessities, travelers can find distinctive mementos, grab-and-go goods and more.

“Our company is experiencing an exciting period of growth in Canada, and we are thankful to the team at YEG for the opportunity to continue building thoughtful and meaningful concepts across the country,” said Toby Keir, CEO of WH Smith North America. “We are pleased to offer travelers the chance to bring home a touch of local Edmonton history and culture with these two new concepts.” 

Postcards from Edmonton and The Shoppes at Whyte proudly support Edmonton- and Alberta-based makers, allowing travelers to take a piece of Edmonton’s unique culture with them. Both stores feature products from Armadillo Leather Handbags, Misiyo Candle Co, BLK Rose Candle, Homework Letterpress Studio, Hideout Distro, Still in Town, Stephanie Simpson, and other local artisans. Local food and beverage vendors include Caramunchies, A Worthy Cookie, Colleen’s Chocolates, The Cove Tea Company and more. 

“Our airport is fueled by collaboration, and we are excited to welcome WH Smith North America and showcase our incredible region to those travelling through YEG,” said Myron Keehn, President & CEO of Edmonton International Airport. “From local goods to travel essentials, The Shoppes at Whyte and Postcards from Edmonton are two boutique stores that will offer passengers the things they need to make their journey even more enjoyable.” 

For more information about WH Smith North America locations and retailers, visit marshallretailgroup.com and inmotionstores.com, or to see more dining and retail options available at YEG, visit flyeia.com.

 

Photos by Ingrid Barrentine & Joe Nicholson, Alaska Airlines