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Retail options take off at LaGuardia Airport

By Bill Parry

As LaGuardia Airport awaits modernization with terminal upgrades, improved transportation links and more efficient air-traffic control technology, its retail operation moves steadily forward. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Wednesday to celebrate the revitalization at Terminal B with the opening of a half dozen brand new shops and restaurants.

Airport retail developer MarketPlace Development implemented its first phase of an overall plan to upgrade retail options for travelers, 27 million of whom passed through LaGuardia Airport last year.

Once the upgrade is completed, Terminal B will include 25 retail, news and duty free shops and nearly 30 restaurants and quick-serve locations.

Eddie Bauer, Lacoste and Tumi opened in the center of the terminal to kick off the transformation on the Departures Level.

“These stores add an upmarket sophistication to the retail program,” a Marketplace Development spokeswoman said, adding that Tumi is a recognized leader in luxury travel, business and lifestyle accessories.

Lacoste provides innovative apparel, shoes and accessories and Eddie Bauer sells premium-quality clothing, accessories and gear for men and women that complement the modern outdoor lifestyle.

New restaurant options include Sorrentine Panini Bar, featuring Mediterranean fare; Bowery Bay Tavern offering traditional pub grub with an innovative twist; and Six Blocks Bakery, which serves pastries from the famed Balthazar Bakery in Manhattan.

“We’ve been hard at work this summer so that we can provide passengers with a new and improved experience at LaGuardia,” MarketPlace Development President Paul McGinn said. “We think passengers will be delighted with the new dining and shopping options at Terminal B.”

The new shops and restaurants will provide travellers with more options during the inevitable flight delays that follow the onset of winter. Last year thousands flights were delayed or canceled at LaGuardia Airport during snowstorms.

In addition, passenger services have also been upgraded at Terminal B. The Centurion Lounge by American Express opened in late summer and offers modern, luxurious lounge services to Amex card holders. Located on the third floor, the lounge has received high praise and accolades from passengers.

Temporary ChargeBars have been installed in two store locations that are awaiting construction. The ChargeBars provide travelers with a quiet workspace where they can charge up for free, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

“These new shops, restaurants and amenities will enhance the travel experience,” LaGuardia Airport General Manager Lysa Scully said. “And we look forward to adding more dining and retail options for our travelers as we continue our overall initiatives to further modernize LaGuardia Airport.”

Reach reporter Bill Parry by e-mail at bparr‌y@cng‌local.com or by phone at 718-260-4538.