The world’s largest provider of airport lounges, Plaza Premium Group (PPG), plans to significantly expand its presence across the Americas, including undertaking “significant projects” in Toronto and Vancouver. The endeavour will be part of the Group’s larger commitment to invest US$300 million globally over the next three years.
PPG says the strategic move aims to reinforce aim to deliver integrated end-to-end airport services, providing a seamless travel experience for every customer, whether they’re arriving, in transit, or departing and will include advancing sustainable solutions, integrating cutting-edge technologies, and elevating customer experiences.
Expansion highlights include:
- Personalized services: Travellers can expect more personalized services, increased lounge access, new flagship locations, and seamless digital solutions across both Plaza Premium Lounges and ALLWAYS Meet and Assist concierge services.
- Regional focus: Major efforts will be concentrated on Canada, the US, and Brazil, with significant projects in Toronto and Vancouver, and new lounges in high-traffic US cities like Las Vegas and Washington, D.C.
- Evolved partnerships: PPG will continue its partnerships with Capital One and Visa to develop branded lounges and provide tailored premium experiences. The company aims to extend its award-winning experience to partners, including recent additions such as Desjardins.
- Smart traveller: Enhanced membership and rewards program Smart Traveler will continue to offer exclusive benefits and personalized experiences to frequent travellers.
- Proudly local: ‘Proudly Local’ aims to redefine the airport lounge experience into a ‘destination before departure’ while showcasing its commitment in being a key player in the local community with a proudly local approach. Plaza Premium Group will curate lounges that showcase the best of local cultures within each host city.
“As travellers increasingly seek personalized and seamless experiences, Plaza Premium Group is harnessing technology and research to redefine airport hospitality,” says Sr. VP of the Americas, Pascal Belanger. “Our investment in cutting-edge technologies and advancements in robotics and AI underpins our commitment to setting new standards. These initiatives aim to enhance operational efficiency and elevate customer experiences across our global footprint, creating the perfect destination before departure.'”
The investment is aligned with recent consumer reports and trends, including studies indicating that 70% of travellers desire more lounge access, greater personalization, and an integrated digital solution, like an app, for all services, highlighting the growing demand for premium airport experiences.
Canada
Headquartered in Hong Kong and established in 1998, PPG operates the largest network of international airport lounges worldwide and offers a 360-degree airport experience with 13 brands under its portfolio, spanning over 1,600 touchpoints across more than 80 international airports and 30 countries & regions worldwide. Canada is one of the company’s earliest and continuing focus markets since 2004.