Preparing for the 2010 Winter Games is a huge task to say the least. More than 26,000 people work on Sea Island (a small city!) and the Airport Authority works with many different business partners from government agencies, catering companies, cargo operators, airlines and commercial tenants. So I thought it would be interesting to hear from our business partners how they’re planning for the 2010 Winter Games along side YVR. Meet Edward Li, General Manager, Retail with HMSHost:
Q) How many stores do you operate here at the airport?
A) I look after nine stores which include an Olympic store, Vancouver Marketplace and Gifts of the Raven to name a few.
Q) How are you preparing for the influx of people during 2010 Winter Games?
A) We are working closely and meet regularly with the Airport Authority on their preparations, as well as putting together our own Olympic readiness plan. Our goal in now and during the Games is to deliver the best possible experience for our customers.
Q) What are some of the key items that you’re taking a close look at in your planning?
A) One important item is making sure we have the product available and are fully stocked for our customers. Another is looking at our staffing requirements – making sure our staff get the training they need to provide the best service possible. We want to deliver a pleasurable and positive experience for our customers; it’s our job to make sure we do everything we can to make someone’s experience at YVR a good one.
