TORONTO — Plaza Premium Group (PPG), global airport hospitality services provider, has partnered with Whence, a hospitality marketplace, to bring its Proudly Local initiative to Canada. This collaboration introduces curated products from bespoke, hyperlocal brands into Plaza Premium Lounges (PPL).
PPG operates more than 1,600 touchpoints globally and serves close to 2.8 million travellers per year in Canada alone. Whence worked closely with PPG to curate and vet a selection of thoughtful brands for Proudly Local. Whence partners exclusively with high-quality producers that prioritize community, impact, ethical manufacturing and environmental stewardship to elevate guest experiences. This year, travellers visiting select lounges can enjoy local beers from Prince Edward County, Ont. and wines from family-run vineyards in the Niagara Peninsula.
“We’re proud to partner with Whence, whose dedication to thoughtfully sourced brands and a meaningful connection aligns with the essence of our Proudly Local initiative,” says Pascal Bélanger, SVP of the Americas at PPG. “By working together, we’re enhancing our guests’ experience while giving local businesses with exceptional standards a global platform to grow and thrive.”
Brands and products at select lounges in Toronto Pearson International Airport include:
- Matron Fine Beer (Bloomfield, Prince Edward County, Ont.): Bobo Farmhouse Wheat, a wheat ale with fruit and spice notes, and Janky IPA, an aromatic, easy-drinking IPA with notes of citrus, tropical and stone fruits
- Sons & Daughters Winery (Niagara Peninsula): Sparkling Riesling, featuring light and crisp bubbles, a touch of sweetness and notes of green apple, pink grapefruit and honeysuckle
- Paradise Grapevine (Toronto): Party Favour Pink, a crisp rosé made from Niagara VQA Gamay, Cabernet Franc, Rotburger and Blaufränkisch, offering notes of Campinos, salty red berries and cream
Brands and products available at Vancouver International Airport include:
- Cyrc: Select vases that are made from post-industrial plastic waste
- Genuine Tea: Single-serve teas, from Moringa Mint to Earl Grey, available at Root98
“The stories behind these businesses are inspiring, and that’s exactly what guests want to be part of. If we can provide thoughtful brands with more opportunities, take on the heavy lifting buyers previously faced to align their purchases with their values and create spaces where guests can delight in the details, everyone wins. That’s what Whence is all about,” says Sonia Ruparell, founder & CEO of Whence. “We’re thrilled to partner with PPG. By sourcing thoughtfully with Whence and giving these brands a global platform, PPG is leading the hospitality industry in a meaningful way, walking the walk, and helping local economies grow.”
