CANADA. WHSmith North America has partnered with local brand Lee’s Donuts, to open an outlet at Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
Lee’s Donuts is a ‘mom-and-pop shop’ developed by founders Alan and Betty-Ann Lee in 1979.
The original shop opened in Granville Island Public Market and has since expanded to several other locations around the area.
The brand is known across the Metro Vancouver region for providing a fast, friendly and familiar customer experience, in addition to an array of donut creations handmade fresh daily.
Lee’s Donuts at YVR also features an array of favorite sweet treats from Lick Candy. The store opening marks the company’s sixth location in the Metro Vancouver region.
“With our mission to deliver dynamic and hyperlocal concepts to our airport partners across the continent, Lee’s Donuts stood out to us as the perfect representation of Vancouver and a natural choice for partnership,” said WHSmith North America CEO Toby Keir.
“Expanding our presence in Canada has been one of our company’s largest accomplishments in 2024, and we are thankful to the team at Vancouver International Airport for the opportunity to continue this growth.”
YVR hosted a grand opening celebration on 5 September to welcome Lee’s Donuts to the airport as its newest vendor.
Lee’s Donut mascot Johnny Glaze made a guests appearance at the grand opening, posing for photos with guests and interacting with travellers.
Johnny Glaze was joined by owners of Lee’s Donuts, Allan and Celine Bacani, and representatives from WH Smith North America, including VP of Airport Operations Mary Beth Hawthorne and Divisional VP of Business Development Alea LaRocque.
YVR Director of Passenger Retail Experience Benedict Ma and YVR Manager of Indigenous Relations Morgan Guerin welcomed guests to the event.
“We are excited to welcome Lee’s Donuts to YVR, providing yet another favorite eatery for our travellers,” said Ma.
“Lee’s Donuts is a perfect addition to the outstanding options available to passengers – especially those looking for a sweet treat before boarding. This partnership supports our goal to bring beloved local businesses into the terminal, showcasing the best of Vancouver’s food scene at YVR.”
WHSmith North America’s brand portfolio across seven Vancouver Airport stores includes Flight Stop, Lick, Marshall Rousso, Tentree and more. The company has also recently expanded its Canadian presence with store openings in Calgary and Edmonton. ✈
