GO BIG: PHL FOOD & SHOPS GOES ALL OUT FOR 2025 MERCHANT OF THE YEAR CELEBRATION
Onsite News in Terminal C leads lineup of award-winning PHL merchants 
Philadelphia — April 28, 2025 — A big year deserves a big celebration. Fittingly, the National Constitution Center’s Grand Hall is where PHL Food & Shops gathered on Thursday, April 24, to commemorate another year of big accomplishments with its annual awards program, the Merchant of the Year celebration.
This year’s namesake award, the “2025 Merchant of the Year,” was awarded to Terminal C’s Onsite News, operated by Terri and Sandy Roberts — one of PHL’s top retailers for travel essentials, souvenirs and in-the-moment convenience. Onsite News’ over-and-above approach to frictionless passenger experiences and service with a smile earned its team the marquee trophy of the night.
Shopping and Dining at PHL: Bigger and Better All the Time
From myriad ribbon cuttings and a multitude of special events to the continued expansion of Founded in Philly — PHL Food & Shops’ initiative bringing iconic local brands into the airport — there was no shortage of ‘big’ things to toast at the PHL’s annual merchant community gala.
The Go Big mantra of the night was a nod to the major initiatives already underway and on the 2026 horizon for PHL and Philadelphia related to next year’s Semiquincentennial. As touched on by city representative Michael Newmuis, Philadelphia 2026 Director, who served as keynote speaker for the celebration … there’s rarely been a bigger year than 2026 upcoming.
With traffic at Philly’s airport expected to peak ahead of and during the 2026 Semiquincentennial milestones — including major events from FIFA, NCAA, PGA, MLB, and more — interest and energy are escalating across the region.
PHL Food & Shops will join the excitement of next year with its own series of events and announcements, including more ‘Founded in Philly’ branded openings, such as Federal Donuts & Chicken, Oyster House, Middle Child and others.
“Our community of merchants ‘Go Big’ every day, with the enthusiasm, dedication and innovation they bring to the airport,” said Mel Hannah, Vice President and General Manager of MarketPlace PHL. “We recognize their huge achievements in 2025, and we’re proud to keep that momentum going as we head into 2026.”
“As we prepare for some of the biggest moments in Philly’s history, our world-class airport and its merchants play a key role in setting the tone,” said Kate Sullivan, Chief Commercial Officer at PHL. “We are proud of their accomplishments and eager to see their success continue to flourish amid all the 2026 opportunities. Congratulations to all our merchants on another phenomenal year.”
In addition to Merchant of the Year, a select and stellar list of shops and restaurant operators at PHL earned recognition at the 2025 Merchant of the Year event. A full list of honorees from the 2025 celebration appears below.
Merchant of the Year
Onsite News
Terminal C
Outstanding Quick-Service Restaurant of the Year
Gachi Sushi & Noodles
Terminal E
Outstanding Full-Service Restaurant of the Year
Chickie’s & Pete’s
Terminal E
Outstanding Specialty Retail of the Year
Brooks Brothers
B/C Connector
Outstanding Guest Experience
Kiehl’s
Terminal F
Manager of the Year
Eric Hill
OTG
Paul Porter
Chickie’s & Pete’s
MarketPlace PHL Achievement Award
Brian English
Michelle Robinson Design
Cara Irizarry
Administrative Assistant
Above & Beyond Award
Soumia Ben Heddi
Avolta
Marketplace PHL has been developing and operating the award-winning PHL Food & Shops
program that includes more than 170 in-line stores, restaurants and services for over a quarter
century.