Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) has partnered with The Ohio State University’s Northeast Ohio Ag Innovation Center to bring locally sourced products and experiences to airport guests. The wellness-focused initiative seeks to support local producers, enhance the traveler experience, strengthen employee well-being, and celebrate Northeast Ohio’s agricultural economy.
Beginning this month, passengers are able to purchase locally produced items throughout the terminal. United Concessions Group, CAK’s food and retail concessionaire, is a partner on this initiative. Helping curate the selection is Purplebrown Farm Store of Peninsula, Ohio.
“We are located and truly rooted in our community. We seek to highlight, showcase, and celebrate the best of Northeast Ohio producers, and this initiative will help further that objective,” said Sasha Miller, farmer and founder of Purplebrown.
Airport guests can also learn more about the people behind the products through videos accessed via QR codes. The videos introduce travelers to the farmers, artisans, and businesses that make Northeast Ohio unique.
CAK said the initiative builds on its long-standing commitment to wellness. “Travel plays an important role in overall well-being, and airports have a unique opportunity to positively influence that experience,” said Lisa Dalpiaz, vice president of air service and business development at CAK. “This partnership allows us to deepen our commitment to traveler and employee wellness while creating meaningful opportunities for local farmers, producers, and small businesses to reach new customers.”
In addition to locally sourced retail offerings, the partnership will feature seasonal pop-up farmers’ markets, employee wellness and education initiatives, and interactive guest experiences throughout the terminal that highlight the region’s vibrant agricultural community.
