California’s Ontario International Airport Enhances Traveler Experience with 1LoveIE’s Locally-Branded Apparel & Accessories: What new updates you need to know?

Published on February 18, 2025

Ontario International Airport (ONT) has embraced an initiative that not only enhances its retail experience but also reinforces the cultural and economic identity of Southern California’s Inland Empire. A new collaboration between the airport, boutique retailer 1LoveIE, and Evolve by Hudson has brought locally branded products into the airport’s retail mix, allowing travelers to carry a piece of the Inland Empire (IE) with them wherever they go.

This development comes at a time when ONT continues to experience sustained passenger growth, positioning itself as a key player in connecting the Inland Empire with the global travel landscape. By integrating local brands into its retail space, the airport is expanding its role beyond just a transit hub—it is becoming a gateway that reflects and promotes regional identity.

1LoveIE’s Mission: Bringing Inland Empire to the World

Founded by Justin Hudson, 1LoveIE has spent over a decade crafting a brand that embodies both “One Love Inland Empire” and “One Love in Everything.” The brand’s apparel and accessories—ranging from headwear and shirts to tote bags—have already made a mark at retail outlets in Victoria Gardens in Rancho Cucamonga, the Galleria at Tyler in Riverside, Redlands, and Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel. Now, with its presence at Ontario International Airport, 1LoveIE is reaching an even wider audience.

Hudson, inspired by his travels abroad, recognized the need to better define the Inland Empire’s identity. He recalled that when people asked where he was from, he would instinctively say “L.A.” rather than referencing the IE directly. This realization motivated him to create a brand that could offer a strong sense of place—one that both residents and visitors could proudly associate with the region.

ONT’s Role as an Economic and Cultural Connector

Ontario International Airport has been proactive in integrating local elements into its offerings, aligning with its mission to connect the Inland Empire to the world. The airport has experienced 46 consecutive months of passenger growth, reflecting the region’s increasing economic and tourism appeal. ONT contributes nearly $4 billion annually in economic impact, reinforcing its position as a major driver of regional development.

Elisa Grey, chief revenue management officer for the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA), expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing how this collaboration adds to the airport’s identity as a travel gateway rooted in the Inland Empire’s dynamic culture.

By introducing locally inspired brands to its retail and dining mix, ONT is ensuring that visitors not only pass through but also leave with a meaningful connection to the region. The move aligns with broader industry trends where airports are increasingly seen as extensions of the destinations they serve, providing immersive experiences that begin the moment travelers step inside.

Evolve by Hudson: Elevating Local Retail in Travel Spaces

Evolve by Hudson, a major airport retail brand, has played a crucial role in integrating 1LoveIE into ONT’s retail environment. The company has emphasized the importance of local vendors in creating a diverse shopping experience that speaks to travelers from all backgrounds.

According to Evolve by Hudson, the addition of 1LoveIE brings authenticity to ONT’s retail scene, allowing passengers to take a tangible piece of the Inland Empire with them on their journeys. The strategy of incorporating local brands aligns with a growing industry shift toward place-based retail, where airport stores highlight regional culture and heritage rather than relying solely on generic global brands.

Impact on the Travel Industry and Global Travelers

The expansion of 1LoveIE into Ontario International Airport reflects a broader transformation in the travel industry, where airports are embracing destination branding as a key part of their retail and hospitality strategies. This development has multiple implications for both regional and global travelers:

• A Deeper Sense of Place: Travelers passing through ONT are exposed to unique elements of the Inland Empire’s culture, creating a stronger connection to the region.
• Support for Local Businesses: Featuring local brands within airport retail spaces generates increased visibility and revenue for small businesses, fostering economic growth.
• Enhanced Travel Experience: Airports are no longer just transit points; they are becoming immersive travel experiences, with retail playing a crucial role in shaping first and last impressions of a destination.
• Trendsetting for Other Airports: ONT’s collaboration with a local brand could serve as a model for other mid-sized airports seeking to differentiate themselves and create deeper engagement with travelers.

The movement toward airport retail localization is expected to expand further, with other travel hubs likely to adopt similar strategies to highlight their unique regional attributes. This shift will not only benefit local economies but also enhance the overall travel experience for millions of passengers.

A Model for Future Airport Branding Strategies

Ontario International Airport’s integration of 1LoveIE serves as a compelling case study in how airports can function as more than just transit hubs. By weaving the local community’s identity into its retail offerings, ONT has taken an important step toward redefining how travelers interact with regional culture.

In an era where sustainability, authenticity, and regional pride are shaping consumer behavior, this approach could become a gold standard for airport retail strategies worldwide. As ONT continues to grow and diversify its offerings, it is likely that more local brands will find a home in its terminals, further solidifying its reputation as a gateway that truly reflects the Inland Empire.