SSP Canada Brings Local Okanagan Flavour to YLW
News Release
SSP Canada, a division of SSP Group, a leading operator of food and beverage brands in travel locations worldwide, today announced the opening of two new dining concepts at Kelowna International Airport (YLW): Okanagan Vintners Exchange Gastrobar and Ellison Field Taphouse Kitchen & Bar.
The openings reflect SSP Canada’s commitment to bringing a true taste of place to airport environments, celebrating the flavours, producers, and community spirit of the Okanagan while meeting the needs of today’s travellers.
SSP Canada worked with the award-winning portfolio of wineries from Iconic Wineries of British Columbia and its local sommelier, Bram Bolwijn, to bring the Okanagan Vintners Exchange Gastrobar to YLW. The opening showcases the region’s celebrated wine culture in a welcoming, contemporary setting. Vintners Exchange offers travellers a curated selection of local Okanagan wines from estates such as Mission Hill Family Estate and CedarCreek Estate Winery, paired with thoughtfully crafted dishes that highlight local ingredients and regional flavours.
SSP Canada tapped the BC Ale Trail to open Ellison Field Taphouse Kitchen & Bar at YLW. The bar celebrates British Columbia’s vibrant craft beer scene. Featuring a rotating selection of local brews alongside approachable, comfort-driven fare, Ellison Field Taphouse delivers a relaxed and social dining experience rooted in the culture of the region.
“Bringing these two concepts to Kelowna International Airport allows us to showcase the flavours of the region,” said Rich Wilson, SSP Canada’s vice president, brand development. “Vintners Exchange and Ellison Field Taphouse bring authenticity, quality, and a strong taste of place. We're proud to partner with YLW and the BC Ale Trail, and to feature wines from Iconic Wineries, to create memorable dining experiences that reflect what makes this region special.”
“The opening of Ellison Field Taphouse and Vintners Exchange reflects our commitment to enhancing the passenger experience at YLW through improved food offerings,” said Sam Samaddar, chief executive officer of Kelowna International Airport. “We’re thrilled to partner with SSP Canada and local producers to deliver dining experiences that showcase the best of the Okanagan Valley right here in the airport.”
These openings underscore SSP Canada’s continued focus on partnering with airports and local brand partners to create dining experiences that are rooted in place, thoughtfully executed, and designed to be the best part of the journey.
As part of opening celebrations, SSP and YLW are inviting the community to vote for their favourite spring beer from seven local craft options, with the winning brew earning a coveted spot on the rotating tap at the restaurant. Everyone who votes will be automatically entered into a draw for a $100 Ellison Field gift card and a BC Ale Trail swag pack. Votes can be cast on the BC Ale Trail app, or online at bcaletrail.ca.
From left: Sam Samaddar (YLW), Tonja Molina (YLW), Sean White (Copper Brewing), Rich Wilson (SSP Canada), Leah Hilyer (SSP Canada)
From left: Amy Cho (SSP Canada), Sam Samaddar (YLW), Bram Bolwijn (Iconic Wineries), Bryan Tchir (YLW), Leah Hilyer (SSP Canada), Tonja Molina (YLW), Rich Wilson (SSP Canada)
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