The Somers Isles Trading Company has won the duty-free and speciality retail concession for the new passenger terminal at the LF Wade International Airport.

Rhona Sutton, an island resident, founded the company. She is an entrepreneur and founder of the Rhona Sutton Group, with over 20 years’ experience developing products and designs for international clients including Harrods, Disney, Macy’s, Four Seasons and Ritz Carlton.

Skyport, operators of the airport, announced the award of the contract today.

Ms Sutton has spent the past two years developing a customised, branded retail concept, soon to be launched as “Love Bermuda”.

“We celebrate the colour, vibrancy, and life of Bermuda in a space where the customer experience is created through a welcoming environment, lovingly designed quality products, friendly people and excellent service,” Ms Sutton said.

“The Love Bermuda product offer is a vibrant eclectic and authentic range of quality merchandise presented with elegant clarity.”

To develop the Somers Isles and Love Bermuda brands, Ms. Sutton and her team have collaborated with some 45 Bermudian artisans, entrepreneurs and service companies to bring the project to life.

The venture realises Ms Sutton’s ambition to make a tangible contribution to the island of Bermuda that has been her wish since she first visited more than ten years ago.

Aaron Adderley, president of Skyport, said: “It was important for us to introduce an innovative retail proposition for the new passenger terminal building.

“We are delighted to see Somers Isle Trading working with so many Bermudian businesses, several of whom have never before had a presence at the airport.

“Ms Sutton’s vision for the stores and her attention to detail is extraordinary and when the shop doors open, travellers will be genuinely impressed with what they see.”

Fresh contemporary concepts celebrating the Bermudian sense of pride and community, will highlight the stories of the local artisans behind the brands, many of whom will be featured at the airport for the first time, Skyport said.

Ms. Sutton said: “This is an exciting opportunity for the smaller Bermudian entrepreneurs who were not showcased in the current airport, allowing them now to have an international audience.

“This means greater exposure and scope for growth for the featured Bermudian brands, in line with our commitment to increased training initiatives and employment opportunities for Bermudians.”

She added: “The airport team sought an elevated experience for its passengers, and we are delighted to be working with Skyport to deliver this.

“As an entrepreneur and business founder, I’m pleased to collaborate with so many talented people to champion their locally designed and produced brands.”

She added that the Somers Isles Trading Company itself reflects the original outpost of Bermuda’s commerce formed in 1615.

The branded stores at LF Wade’s new passenger terminal will also feature a collection of wines, spirits, craft beers, tobacco and souvenirs, as well as the luxury and novelty gift collections for men, women and children of all ages.