Six women-owned and locally based businesses are now operating at John F. Kennedy International Airport’s Terminal 8 (T8), a milestone in the $125 million commercial redevelopment of the terminal.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, American Airlines, and Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) Airports announced the openings last week as part of a small business retail accelerator program aimed at promoting local entrepreneurs.
“This program is truly for the community and speaks volumes to URW Airports in providing the spaces and support for us to succeed,” said Amerrah Danielson, founder of Beautiful Amore Skincare, one of the selected businesses. Her kiosk features vegan skincare products and plant-based cosmetics.
The retail accelerator provides opportunities for small businesses by offering turnkey spaces with flexible terms, significantly reducing upfront costs. The initiative prioritizes minority- and women-owned businesses (MWBEs) from southeast Queens and the greater New York City area, aligning with the Port Authority’s broader goal of ensuring local economic benefits from the $19 billion JFK redevelopment project.
The selected businesses
The six entrepreneurs chosen through the accelerator bring a variety of products to T8:
- alchemy.
Brooklyn-based Jennifer Spencer offers handmade candles, perfumes, jewelry, and home decor with a focus on sustainability. - Natchie
Brooklyn artist Nadia Ackerman features hand-drawn illustrations on greeting cards, stationery, and sustainable totes. 
- Beautiful Amore Skincare
Queens resident Amerrah Danielson showcases high-quality vegan products, including body butters, oils, and hair care.
- Bevo’s Kitchen
Gracia Clery-Leonce, also from Queens, provides healthy snacks like jams, granolas, and vegan dishes.
- HoneyGramz
Ruth Harrigan, a Great Neck beekeeper, offers honey products, including her award-winning creamed elderberry honey.
- Mother Earth Juice Bar
Jamaica-based holistic health expert Dr. Lord-Marcelle specializes in tonics, supplements, and herbal remedies.
Local focus, global reach
“This initiative not only elevates the travel experience but ensures that local entrepreneurs have a chance to thrive in a global marketplace,” said Rick Cotton, Port Authority executive director. “It’s a tangible example of the benefits of the JFK redevelopment flowing back into the community.”
The retail accelerator program offers short-term leases, education, and networking opportunities to help businesses succeed in airport environments. The initiative aligns with the Port Authority’s commitment to a 30% MWBE participation rate across its JFK redevelopment projects.
