Hudson Group expands at IND, opens several new stores (including iconic FAO Schwarz toy store)

Hudson Group has expanded into Indianapolis International Airport with the opening of several new stores, including the iconic FAO Schwarz toy store.

The East Rutherford travel retailer said it unveiled its first six stores at IND this month, where it announced a new 10-year contract win earlier this year.

Hudson Group will add a total of nine new stores and nearly 9,000 square feet to its portfolio. In addition, it will occupy the largest retail store at IND — 1,700 square feet.

The new stores will be operated under a joint venture between Hudson Group and its ACDBE partners, Erin Humphreys of EnRoute Spa and Milan Patel of OHM Concessions Group.

“The Indianapolis International Airport was recently ranked as North America’s best airport for the sixth year in a row, so we are both honored and thrilled to enter this new market and add the IND Airport team to our Hudson family,” Hudson Group CEO Roger Fordyce said. “With the ultimate goal of turning the world of travel into a world of opportunity for travelers, Hudson is poised to offer our customers a gateway to a variety of exceptional retail experiences unlike any other travel brand, with authentic Hoosier flair and an unmatched sense of place.”

Once the project is complete, Hudson Group’s stores at IND will include: FAO Schwarz, an iconic toy store; Ink, a contemporary bookstore; Tech on the Go, a place for tech-enthusiasts; Tumi, an international business, accessory and travel lifestyle brand; Vineyard Vines, accessories for men and women; Hoosier Crossings, a travel essential and convenience store; Pitstop by Hudson, an Indianapolis Motor Speedway-inspired travel convenience store; and Hudson, a one-stop-shop for all travel needs.

“In order to further solidify our position as the leading airport in North America, we set out to reenergize our retail and concessions offerings throughout the airport with a refresh initiative,” Mario Rodriguez, executive director of the Indianapolis Airport Authority, said. “In doing so, we have welcomed world-renowned partners such as Hudson Group and FAO Schwarz into the fold and look forward to improving upon our exceptional services and continuously raising our standard of excellence for travelers each day.”