North American travel retailer Stellar Partners has announced the acquisition of Avila Retail Development & Management, which will increase its airport retail footprint in the western region of the United States.
Avila, founded as an airport retailer in 1990 by John and Kathleen Avila, is known for developing concepts such as Mosaic, Earth Spirit, and Indigenous that create a sense of place by showcasing local artists and jewellers.
Avila now operates 25 stores in Albuquerque, Denver, San Francisco, and Phoenix airports. Stellar’s portfolio spans over 40 stores across 10 airports. The companies share “years of mutual admiration and common values” and together strengthen their brand portfolio and expertise, said a Stellar Partners statement.
“We are extremely excited to welcome Avila and its talented management team into the Stellar family,” said Stellar Founder Susan Stackhouse.
“This acquisition is a key part of Stellar’s strategic growth plan. It both broadens our retail portfolio and delivers on our objective to grow our business in North American airports. Avila is a regional leader in speciality, news, and convenience retail and their expertise will help us develop dynamic new concepts,” she added.
“Since founding Avila 40 years ago, we have surrounded ourselves with an excellent team who has been integral to our success. We are excited by the opportunities that this transaction with Stellar will provide for our staff, perpetuating the dream that Kathleen and I had to bring an authentic local shopping experience to airports,” said Avila Founder John Avila.
“Stellar has an outstanding reputation and shares our commitment to developing exceptional brands. We look forward to bringing our organizations together to accomplish great things.”
The transaction is expected to close in late summer.