Retail development company Westfield said it has completed the first phase of of a $508 million redevelopment of Terminal 1 Los Angeles International Airport, which introduces Southwest Airlines customers to new retail and dining brands.
The overhaul comes on the heels of the grand opening of Terminal 2 at LAX and was spearheaded by Southwest (NYSE: LUV) and LAX operator Los Angeles World Airports. Westfield is developing a dining and retail collection featuring 24 destinations and promises a “reimagined experience with a hip, modern California feel.”
The first of three phases includes the opening of six retailers, including Rock & Brews, a restaurant from Kiss front men Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley; Be Relax, which provides massage, nail and facial services; retailer Brookstone; gift shop I Love L.A.; surfwear shop Sol Surf; and candy store Treat Me Sweet.
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In addition, Southwest is upgrading the customer gate areas, giving the terminal a fresh new look while providing more efficient customer service.
“Together with Southwest Airlines and LAWA, we’re creating a new energy and vibe and a more holistic customer experience,” Keith Kaplan, Westfield’s vice president at LAX, said in a statement. “We’re bringing the terminal to life by activating gate areas and engaging customers with a unique design, inviting sightlines and integrated dining and retail.”
The Terminal 1 overhaul, announced in September 2014, is slated for completion in 2018. When finished, the terminal’s retail and dining areas will span 25,242 feet, nearly double that of the old terminal.
Australia-based Westfield (ASX: WFD) is partnering with the city of Los Angeles and LAWA, to update the passenger experience at LAX terminals 1, 2, 3, 6 and Tom Bradley International Terminal. The company is investing more than $184 million at the airport, which it projects will lead to $464.8 million in sales in the first four years, 490 construction jobs and 2,650 permanent jobs.