JFKIAT and Hudson combine to launch first multi-brand automated retail concept in a New York airport

USA. In a first for New York airports, JFKIAT, the operator of Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy International, has launched a multi-brand automated retail concept in partnership with travel retailer Hudson.

The new concept – neighbouring the Five Borough Food Hall in T4 – gives passengers a contactless, 24/7 shopping destination and features a wide selection of products from globally-known and local brands. The offer includes an array of items from the likes of Brookstone, Apple, Beats, Bose and Burt’s Bees.

A wide selection of vending machine shopping options awaits consumers in John F. Kennedy International Airport T4

The concept also features the first-ever ‘Automated Teddy Machine’ from the Missouri-headquartered retailer Build-A-Bear Workshop. It gives shoppers access to customised toys, which can be completed with exclusive New York City apparel, including a Statue of Liberty outfit.

As reported, the first multi-brand automated retail vending concept from Hudson was launched at Myrtle Beach International Airport in March this year.

Hudson Senior Vice President, Operations Joe Landolfi said: “The opening of our new automated retail concept at JFK T4 continues to build on our longstanding partnership with JFKIAT while elevating the specialty retail offerings we deliver for their international travellers.”

Roel Huinink believes contactless experiences of this nature will play a part in restoring confidence in airport shopping in the face of the pandemic

He added: “By combining a variety of leading, global brands with the unmatched convenience and accessibility that Hudson is known for, we are confident travellers of all ages will find everything they need and more in this innovative shopping experience.”

The automated retail concept is the latest in series of moves by JFKIAT to enable contactless customer experiences at JFK International. Earlier this year, the company partnered with Inflyter and DFS Group to launch T4 Marketplace, a branded digital destination for duty free shopping.

With the launch of the digital marketplace, JFKIAT said it also plans to expand the offering to include other retailers within T4 to provide customers with a wider selection of products.

In 2019, JFKIAT launched AtYourGate at T4, giving customers the ability to order food and beverages on the AtYourGate app and have items delivered to their gate.

JFKIAT President and CEO Roel Huinink said: “We are very pleased that JFK T4 is the home of Hudson’s first automated retail concept in New York. JFKIAT has continued to innovate T4’s offerings in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and enabling a more contactless customer experience is critical to our mission to restore confidence in air travel.

“This partnership with Hudson is our latest move to enable a safe, seamless, and fully digital purchase process, creating a safer and more seamless journey for customers and employees.”

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