New shopping at Portland's airport - Portland International Airport

Sunset, March, 1989

A spare toothbrush, a paperback novel, perhaps some presents for the kids: offerings at airports tend to be utilitarian at best, uninspiring and overpriced at worst. Exceptions are the goods on display at the remodeled Portland International Airport. Here, a new mix of stores with a regional flavor and a unique pricing policy make shopping much more appealing. All nine shops in the new "Oregon Market" are outlets of well-established Portland retailers, whose wares reflect the city's--and region's-tastes. Other than Made in Oregon (a food and gift shop) and Norm Thompson (a clothier), all shops are new to the airport.

City Kids stocks innovative toys, the Nike store some 65 shoe styles. The selection at Oregon Mountain Community ranges from carabiners and water purifiers to waterproof parkas and wool sweaters. Powell's Books sells (and occasionally buys) a few used books, but focuses on new fiction, travel, and regional titles. The Real Mother Goose Gallery carries Northwest crafts. Across the corridor, The Flower King and Van Duyn's Chocolates complete the market. All stores are open from 6 A.M. until at least 9 P.M.

As for prices, they're no higher at the airport than at the stores' downtown locations. To eliminate airport sticker shock, shops are required to keep prices down in exchange for lower-than-usual rents; officials believe PDX is the only airport in the country with such a policy. Don't expect bargains in the snack bar, however; food concessions are exempt.