At the ACI Embry-Riddle Conference on November 9, Edmonton International Airport was awarded the Airports Council International Richard A. Griesbach Award for the best overall concession program for 2005.

"The diverse food and beverage and retail outlets of Edmonton’s Central Hall, coupled with a cozy 30ft fireplace and seating area create a comfortable passenger flow that encourages dining and shopping in a relaxed atmosphere,” said Lauren Werner, Director of Economic and Associate Affairs. “This program has witnessed a 25% increase in retail sales and a 30% increase in food and beverage gross sales. That financial success, coupled with their increase in customer satisfaction levels, illustrates a truly successful airport concession program.”

Edmonton, as part of the terminal redevelopment and expansion, retained Sypher to develop a new concession concept, program and tenant design criteria. The Edmonton award is the fourth occasion that airports that have used Sypher as their concession development consultant have won this prestigious award. The others are Vancouver, Minneapolis and Calgary.