 |
Striking a chord: KISS front men Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley joined Westfield and Crews in celebrating the opening of Rock & Brews on Tuesday at LAX Terminal 1. (From left): Keith Kaplan, Westfield; Dell Furano, Rock & Brews; Dave Furano, Rock & Brews; Gene Simmons, KISS: Deborah Crews, Crews; Paul Stanley, KISS; Michael Zislis, Rock & Brews; Nick Buford, Crews |
USA. Westfield has completed the first phase of a major redevelopment at Los Angeles International Airport Terminal 1, which offer Southwest Airlines customers a new retail and dining collection. It is the latest in a series of investments at LAX: last month the developer hosted the grand opening of the new-look T2.
As part of a US$508 million overhaul of T1 spearheaded by Southwest and Los Angeles World Airports, Westfield’s dining and retail offer will feature 24 locations and what it termed “a reimagined experience with a hip, modern California feel”.
The first of three phases features the opening of six brands, including Rock & Brews – from KISS front men Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley – Be Relax, Brookstone, I Love L.A., Sol Surf and Treat Me Sweet.
In addition, Southwest is upgrading the customer gate areas, giving the terminal a fresh look, while providing what it calls a more efficient customer experience.
“Together with Southwest Airlines and LAWA, we’re creating a new energy and vibe and a more holistic customer experience,” said Westfield Vice President at LAX Keith Kaplan. “We’re bringing the terminal to life by activating gate areas and engaging customers with a unique design, inviting sightlines and integrated dining and retail.”
“The revitalization of Terminal 1 at LAX comes at a very exciting time for Southwest,” said John Zuzu, Senior Director of Corporate Facilities at Southwest Airlines. “As we continue to offer our great low fares to even more destinations for our LA-based customers, we’re proud to showcase our unrivalled hospitality through this beautiful new facility.”
The Terminal 1 overhaul was announced in September 2014 and is slated for completion in 2018. When finished, the Terminal 1 retail and dining collection will span 25,242 feet – nearly double that of the old terminal.
“Rock & Brews brings an electrifying new attitude and vibe to customers from the minute they clear the security checkpoint,” said Nick Buford, COO and Managing Partner of L.A.-based Crews, which operates Rock & Brews. “It’s amazing to watch the Terminal 1 transformation take shape. We’re proud to continue innovating the traveller experience with an exciting concept like this, and partners like Southwest, LAWA and Westfield.”
The new design of the terminal is expressed through what are said to be “simple but sculptural forms curated with artisanal, creative and fun products and finishes”.
The six new concepts that opened in the first phase of the redevelopment are:
• Rock & Brews: Craft beers and American “comfort food”, a partnership with KISS front men Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley;
• Be Relax: On-demand massage, nail and facial services at a LAX first;
• Sol Surf: Surf wear and lifestyle items from the Southern California brand, an airport first anywhere;
• Treat Me Sweet: Confectionery and candies, an airport first;
• I Love L.A.: Travel essentials, souvenirs and news & gift items;
• Brookstone: Gifts for men, women and children.
“Customers are already enjoying the enhancements at the terminal, and we can see that just by looking at their faces as they explore and engage the new space,” said Debbie Seanez, Vice President of Soto & Sanchez, which operates I Love L.A., Sol Surf and Treat Me Sweet – all of which are Los Angeles brands. “We’re excited to be part of the ongoing transformation at LAX as a local L.A. retail business.”
In partnership with the city of Los Angeles and LAWA, Westfield is transforming the passenger experience at LAX terminals 1, 2, 3, 6 and Tom Bradley International Terminal. To improve satisfaction and drive sales, Westfield is creating a unique design at each terminal. Westfield is investing more than US$184 million at the airport.
 |
The T1 redevelopment follows the grand opening of the new dining and retail offer at LAX T2 (above and below) |
 |
