Since entering the airport retail space in 2015, Love From USA has brought fresh, innovative and uniquely local concepts to the travel experience. An industry long dominated by corporate giants, airports over the past decade have looked more favorably on minority-owned and ACDBE-certified businesses, and Love From USA’s portfolio of noteworthy concepts has grown steadily. With 24 total specialty retail; travel, news & convenience; and food & beverage concepts in high-traffic locations around the country -- including in O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Orlando International Airport (MCO), Denver International Airport (DEN), San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) -- Love From USA continues disrupting the giants. 

A Look Back: The History of Airport Retail 

Airport retail has come a long way since its humble beginnings. In the early days of commercial aviation, airport shops were little more than newsstands and souvenir kiosks, catering to travelers with last-minute essentials. As air travel boomed in the latter half of the 20th century, airports evolved into major commercial hubs, offering everything from luxury boutiques to duty-free shopping. 

By the 2000s, airport retail had become a billion-dollar industry dominated by large corporations, focusing primarily on global brands and high-end products. While this shift increased the variety of offerings, it often left travelers longing for a sense of place, something unique and representative of the cities they were visiting. 

The Current State of Airport Retail 

Today, airport retail is undergoing another transformation. Travelers are seeking more than just convenience—they want experiences, authenticity, and connections to local culture. Airports are responding by integrating locally owned stores, artisanal goods, and regionally inspired designs into their retail mix. Love From USA is proud to be a driving force in that retail trend. 

Making an Impact: Love From USA Group 

Amidst a landscape dominated by corporate giants, Love From USA Group is making a significant impact by championing local-first concepts that celebrate the culture and spirit of the cities they serve. In 2025, the company debuted a new tagline Love Local Like We Do as testament to that commitment. 

At Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, I Love Chicago in Terminal 5, showcases Chicago-themed gifts and souvenirs, giving travelers a chance to take a piece of the Windy City home. 

Love From Felicity, also located at O’Hare, is a first-of-its kind grab-and-go concept in partnership with Felicity School in Deerfield, IL, a private therapeutic school for underprivileged students. This food and beverage kiosk provides students with part-time employment and hands-on training, helping them secure job opportunities post-graduation. Additionally, a portion of proceeds will be donated back to Felicity School. 

In Denver, retail concepts Black Canyon Market & Goods, Longs Peak Market & Goods, and High Dune Market & Goods, in partnership with Mission Yogurt, Inc., focus on bringing the essence of Colorado to DEN travelers through curated local products, foods, and souvenirs. The stores have been recognized and lauded as outstanding retail concepts within the airport industry for their unique design and curated customer experience. 

By blending local culture, community engagement, and unique retail experiences, Love From USA Group is proving that airport retail doesn’t have to be impersonal. Our success is a testament to the power of authenticity, local partnerships, and social impact. 

As travelers continue to seek more enriching experiences, Love From USA Group is disrupting the giants — one airport at a time.