New specialty retailers land at airport
INDIANAPOLIS—Business and leisure travelers at Indianapolis International Airport— and those who greet them—will find two new specialty shops in which to browse, make last-minute purchases, and find a special gift.
Venerable West Coast candy-maker See’s Famous Old Time Candies will open the doors to its only Indiana location in September. KIDS Forever, which specializes in items for the young and young-at-heart, launched its airport operation last month.
“Each of these business partners fills a unique niche in our retail mix, so we are pleased to have them on board,” explained Mary Ann Falatic, the airport’s retail director.
A family-based business, See’s Candies has flourished in California since 1921. With its signature black-and-white shops making 100 varieties of fine chocolate and candy, See’s is headquartered in San Francisco. It sells dark, milk, and assorted chocolates, truffles, almond clusters, brittles, toffees, chews, and pops in addition to kosher and sugar-free candies at more than 200 locations throughout the western U.S.
“When we learned the airport was seeking a sweet shop, we felt See’s Candies was a natural choice because of its quality chocolates, confections, and other products. We expect it will be a favorite among Indianapolis travelers,” said Stephen Douglas, vice president of business development for HMSHost Corporation, which creates innovative concession and retail plans for hotels, airports, and travel plazas.
The merchandise at KIDS Forever ranges from Spiderman action figures to Dora the Explorer, Sponge Bob, and Curious George plush dolls and animals. Shoppers can select fun items to keep kids of all ages occupied during their flights, including games, puzzles, books, handheld electronic games, inexpensive travel-sized games, and snacks. Other purchases, like hair accessories, jewelry, or blankets make great gifts to take home after the flight.
The concept was developed by CCS Group LLC, a family-based company specializing in airport retailing based in Erlanger, KY. CCS Group also operates Back Home Indiana at Indianapolis International. “When the space became available in Indianapolis, we felt it was a great opportunity for us to expand our operations and test a new concept,” explained Jennifer Briscoe, CCS general manager.
Visit KIDS Forever and See’s Candies seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. For more information about retail opportunities at Indianapolis International Airport, contact Mary Ann Falatic at 317.487.5274.