Stellar Partners Inc has announced the acquisition of Avila Retail Development & Management, LLC (Avila) which will increase its airport retail footprint in the western region of the United States. 

Avila is an award-winning airport retailer known for developing innovative concepts including mosaic, earth spirit and indigenous that create a sense of place by showcasing local artists and jewelers.

The company was established as an airport retailer in 1990 by John and Kathleen Avila. It now operates 25 stores in Albuquerque, Denver, San Francisco, and Phoenix.

Stellar and Avila will provide an extensive portfolio of exclusive brands plus decades of operating expertise to airports across North America.

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Stellar Founder Susan Stackhouse, whose company has a diverse portfolio of more than 40 stores in 10 airports said: “We are extremely excited to welcome Avila and its talented management team into the Stellar family. 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.”

Avila Founder John Avila 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.

“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.