HMSHost celebrated the opening of a fifth Starbucks at Portland International airport, reminiscent of the industrial Pearl District in downtown Portland, located on Concourse C.

 

As part of the festivities, HMSHost President and CEO Tom Fricke – who recently became an honorary Starbucks-certified Barista and Coffee Master – took a turn at making Starbucks coffees for travellers.

 

Vince Granato, Chief Operating Officer, Port of Portland said: “Not only is this Starbucks store eye-catching, it is in a key location for providing travellers on Concourse C convenient access to their favourite beverage or pastry, and is effectively rounding out the food and beverage options that travellers have to choose from, no matter where they are in the airport.”

 

[Above: L-R: Tom Fricke, President & CEO, HMSHost; Michelle Burns, Vice President, Branded Solutions-US Regions, Starbucks Coffee Company; and Vince Granato, COO, Port of Portland]

 

From a design perspective, Portland’s industrial past is represented throughout the store. Elements incorporated into the space include a vertical tower constructed of “hot rolled steel and exposed fasteners, influenced by coffee and tea shipping containers of yesteryear.”

 

“The design and aesthetics throughout the store boast elements of local industry and aviation, giving this Starbucks store a unique, locally-relevant ambiance,” said Michelle Burns, Vice President, Branded Solutions, Starbucks Coffee Company.

 

“We are excited to work with our longtime business partner HMSHost to enhance the experience at Portland International Airport and provide a distinctive and comfortable space where travellers can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee, just as they would at their local neighbourhood Starbucks location.”