ARI reimagines Edmonton Duty Free with local inspiration

CEO Ray Hernan and Chief Operations & Business Development Officer Nuno Amaral, alongside the North American team and YEG executives at the opening on January 22. The newly renovated Edmonton Duty Free stores blend Instagram-worthy local heritage elements with premium retail space, exemplifying ARI's "Joy On Your Way" brand expression
ARI has unveiled a comprehensive renovation of its Edmonton International Airport (YEG) duty free locations, marking a significant expansion of its "Joy On Your Way" brand expression through locally-inspired design elements and curated product selection. The January 2025 completion encompasses stores in both the Domestic-International and US Departures lounges.
The renovation represents ARI's strategic focus on creating destination-specific retail environments. Design elements integrate Edmonton's natural and cultural heritage, featuring Instagram-worthy installations including a suspended replica dinosaur fossil highlighting the region's paleontological significance and a custom swing inspired by Edmonton's River Valley landmark. Interior design incorporates extensive greenery referencing North America's largest urban park, while vintage photography of historic Jasper Avenue reinforces local connections.

A replica dinosaur fossil suspended from the ceiling anchors the redesigned Edmonton Duty Free, reflecting the region's rich paleontological heritage
"It was important for us to really create an authentic, memorable experience for shoppers, and we have managed to deliver a truly special retail offering at the new Edmonton Duty Free," says Glen Morgan, ARINA General Manager. "Edmonton has a rich and unique heritage, and the new stores encapsulate the essence of this vibrant city. We have cultivated a great range of brands and products to cater to the evolving passenger demographic travelling through the airport."
The product strategy balances international luxury brands with carefully selected local offerings, including signature collections from Canadian hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, leveraging his strong association with the Edmonton Oilers to enhance the stores' authentic local appeal.

Edmonton's heritage takes center stage in ARI's newly renovated duty free locations at YEG
Carmen Donnelly, Vice President, Passenger Experience and Terminal Operations at YEG, emphasizes the strategic importance: "YEG is a gateway to the world, and part of the travel journey is ensuring our passengers have the best experience possible. Our partnership with ARI is a key ingredient for our international passengers to enjoy the benefits of shopping duty-free, offering luxury and savings throughout the journey."