Travelers passing through the world’s busiest airport are in for a treat as Avolta revitalizes retail at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). The award of two 10-year contracts will see Hudson open 20 new retail stores, redefining convenience, discovery, and local flavor for a global audience.
From tech-forward self-checkout to authentic offerings from over 200 local small businesses, this expansion invigorates both the retail landscape and passenger experience in Atlanta’s aviation heart. Avolta’s bold initiative cements its leadership in North American travel retail.
Expanding Reach: Hudson’s New 20-Store Footprint at ATL
Avolta AG (SIX: AVOL), a leading global travel retail and F&B operator, has secured two separate 10-year contracts with the City of Atlanta. Under its Hudson brand, Avolta will open 20 new retail locations—including two hybrid concept stores—covering approximately 1,800 m² at ATL.
This agreement takes Hudson’s footprint from around 40 locations at ATL to significantly more, reinforcing Avolta’s prominence in airport retail. The expansion was secured through competitive proposals and in collaboration with local, certified ACDBE partners.
Blending Global Brands with Local Flavor
One of the most exciting components of Hudson’s expansion is the integration of local culture into the airport’s retail mix. Avolta will team up with over 200 local small businesses to bring unique, locally crafted products to the terminal environment.
Travelers will now have options beyond standard travel convenience items—offered are locally sourced snacks, gifts, and crafts that reflect Atlanta’s vibrant culture and creative energy.
Local Partner Programs
- Partnering with certified ACDBE local businesses to deliver distinctive offerings
- Featuring authentic handcrafted goods from more than 200 local small businesses
- Creating a sense of place by showcasing Atlanta’s local flavor
Tech-Driven Convenience Meets Loyalty Rewards
Modern travelers expect speed, ease, and rewards. Avolta is delivering on all fronts with digital enhancements and loyalty integration.
In-store technology such as self-checkout kiosks will streamline the retail journey, reducing friction during busy travel flows. Meanwhile, members of the Club Avolta loyalty program will enjoy exclusive offers, rewards, and cross-promotions across Hudson locations at ATL.
Key Features of the New Experience
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Self-Checkout | Contactless, fast shopping for time-pressed travelers |
| Club Avolta Loyalty | Access to exclusive deals, points, and cross-promotional offers |
| Omnichannel Engagement | Enhanced digital interaction, potentially including pre-order, delivery, or mobile offers |
Strategic Importance for ATL and Avolta
Hartsfield-Jackson regularly ranks as the world’s busiest airport by passenger numbers, making any expansion there a high-impact endeavor. Avolta’s increased presence aligns with ATL’s broader Skypointe redevelopment strategy and elevates the airport’s concessions offering.
Steve Johnson, President and CEO, North America, Avolta, emphasized the alignment and trust underpinning the renewed partnership, stating Avolta’s dedication to delivering a shopping experience tailored to diverse traveler needs. Meanwhile, Tyronia Smith, Senior Deputy General Manager for Hartsfield-Jackson, noted that Hudson’s expanded presence advances ATL’s vision of blending global brands with locally inspired retail.
Strategic Highlights
- Strengthened Avolta leadership in North American airport retail
- Enhanced traveler experience at the busiest airport in the world
- Alignment with ATL’s Skypointe revitalization and commitment to community
With these 20 new Hudson stores set to debut over the next decade, ATL’s retail experience is poised for transformation. For travelers from every corner of the globe, the journey through Atlanta will now include a richer blend of convenience, culture, and innovation.
Whether grabbing a locally crafted snack, scanning through a quick self-checkout, or redeeming loyalty perks, passengers at ATL will find their travel retail experience elevated to a new standard—one that reflects both global sophistication and the spirit of Atlanta.
Photo Credit: Markus Mainka / Shutterstock.com
