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Expanding Opportunities for Small Businesses at DTW Airport

Introduction to SOAR

Published by Detroit Free Press
Date: October 17, 2024
Author: Michelle Martin

Travelers arriving at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) now have the exciting opportunity to discover and support two of the region’s most distinctive small businesses upon their arrival. This initiative is part of a groundbreaking pilot program known as Small Business Operators Arriving Ready (SOAR), designed specifically to help small businesses thrive in the bustling airport environment.

Meet the Featured Businesses: Rebel Nell and Quix Chocolate

The first small businesses to join the SOAR program are Rebel Nell, a jewelry enterprise rooted in Detroit, and Quix Chocolate, an artisanal chocolate shop based in Ferndale. These companies now operate out of two newly constructed retail spaces located within the Warren Cleage Evans Terminal, offering travelers a taste of local craftsmanship and products.

As Michigan’s largest airport, DTW stands as one of the premier air transportation hubs globally, having served over 31 million passengers in 2023 alone. This new program not only enhances the shopping experience for thousands of domestic and international travelers but also provides a significant platform for these businesses to gain visibility and grow.

Conceptualization and Launch of SOAR Program

The SOAR initiative was brought to life by Renata C. Evans, the First Lady of Wayne County and a former small-business owner herself. With a clear vision to empower entrepreneurs, she focused on equipping small businesses with the essential tools and retail spaces they need to thrive, especially in a high-trafficked area like the airport. After several years of meticulous planning, the SOAR program officially launched this summer and holds promise for future expansions.

The Significance of Rebel Nell

Rebel Nell is not just a jewelry company; it is a mission-driven social enterprise dedicated to providing equitable employment opportunities and comprehensive support for women facing barriers to traditional employment. This includes women who have experienced homelessness, returning citizens, refugees, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and women dealing with mental and physical disabilities.

The company crafts unique jewelry and gifts using meaningful materials sourced from various iconic Detroit landmarks, such as fallen graffiti, the Joe Louis Arena, and Michigan Central Station. The name "Rebel Nell" pays homage to former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, affectionately known as “Little Nell” during her youth, honoring her lifelong commitment to women’s rights and civil rights activism.

Amy Peterson, the co-founder and CEO of Rebel Nell, has dreamed of having an airport store for many years, a vision that has now been realized.

“We are honored and excited to be a part of the SOAR Small Business Program,” Peterson stated. “I am grateful to the airport for giving small businesses a chance. I have always dreamed of having a store in the airport, and now travelers passing through the Evans Terminal can literally take home a piece of Detroit.”

Quix Chocolate: A Taste of Belgium in Michigan

Founded in Lanklaar, Belgium, in 1947, Quix Chocolate has evolved from a family business to a highly regarded shop in Ferndale. The airport location now allows both loyal fans and new customers to savor the shop’s exquisite chocolate creations conveniently before their flights.

“We are thrilled to open a venue at the airport, where we can provide travelers with fine Belgian chocolate and other confections made in Michigan,” expressed David Ogloza, the president and owner of Quix Chocolate. “Quix is a wonderful addition to the current offerings at the airport. Customers can explore unique gifts or indulge in delicious treats as they begin their travels.”

Quix Chocolate boasts an impressive selection, producing around 40 traditional flavors of Belgian chocolates derived from original family recipes. Seasonal offerings for fall include delightful flavors such as Bananas Foster, apple-caramel ganache, and pumpkin-caramel. For a fun twist, travelers can also choose from chocolate treats shaped like airplanes and whimsical characters.

Location and Accessibility

Both Rebel Nell and Quix Chocolate can be found conveniently near gate D12 in the Evans Terminal, making it easy for travelers to access these unique shops.

A Gratitude to Renata Evans and the Future of SOAR

“We’re grateful to Mrs. Renata Evans for bringing us this idea and for helping to develop the program,” said Chad Newton, CEO of the Wayne County Airport Authority. “Small businesses are at the heart of Michigan’s economy, and SOAR is another vital way that DTW is investing in our local communities.”

The Role of AI legalese decoder

In navigating the complexities of business operations, especially in a new retail environment like that of an airport, small business owners may encounter legal documentation that can be difficult to understand. This is where AI legalese decoder can play a crucial role. By utilizing advanced AI technology, small business owners can decipher legal agreements and requirements pertinent to their airport operations, ensuring they understand their rights, obligations, and compliance standards. This tool not only demystifies legal language but also empowers entrepreneurs to make informed decisions, ultimately contributing to their success in this new marketplace.

Conclusion

The SOAR program marks a significant step in supporting local entrepreneurship and enhancing the travel experience at DTW Airport. With Rebel Nell and Quix Chocolate at the forefront, travelers now have access to unique products that reflect the spirit of Detroit and beyond. As this program expands, the partnership between the airport authorities and local businesses will continue to flourish, ensuring a vibrant retail atmosphere for all who pass through.

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