USA. Renowned toy store FAO Schwarz yesterday made its world airport debut with a pop-up shop at John F. Kennedy International Airport, in association with DFS Group.
The 300sq ft pop-up will trade through to 31 December. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the opening and to mark FAO Schwarz’s entry to travel retail.
FAO Schwarz was founded in 1862 by Frederick August Otto Schwarz, fulfilling his dream of a bountiful emporium full of extraordinary, one-of-a-kind toys from all over the world. Today is it considered one of the world’s oldest and most iconic toy brands.
“We are thrilled to welcome FAO Schwarz’s iconic toys and products to Terminal 4,” said Gert-Jan de Graaff, President and CEO of JFKIAT, the company which operates Terminal 4.
“This imaginative in-store retail experience will provide travellers with yet another option to purchase premium goods while on the go. With more than 50,000 international and domestic passengers each day, and even more expected during the holiday season, this pop-up shop will surely be a familiar name and another reason for travelers to explore Terminal 4’s retail hall throughout the busy holiday season.”
The pop-up shop embodies the “nostalgic playful personality” of FAO Schwarz, DFS said, from its “whimsical aesthetic” to its assortment of one-of-a-kind toys and specialty goods. The holiday collection gives a nod to the 155-year-old brand’s legacy of innovation and quality products. Terminal 4 travellers can enjoy classic items, ranging from oversized plush animals to vintage toys and the brand’s well-known floor piano.
“DFS is delighted to partner with FAO Schwarz to bring even more excitement to our travelling customers this season,” said DFS Group Senior Vice President Spirits, Wine, Tobacco, Food and Gifts Brooke Supernaw. “This pop-up store is a perfect complement to the excitement of travel, the thrill of discovery and the joy of the holidays.”
Terminal 4 offers some 122,200sq ft of shopping and dining space, featuring 48 shops and 28 food & beverage outlets.
JFK T4 was the first air terminal in North America to be operated by a private management company. JFKIAT is owned by Schiphol USA Inc., a U.S. affiliate of Schiphol Group.
