YSJ Market And Duty Free Has New Owners

Passengers will notice some changes the next time they fly out of the Saint John Airport.

The YSJ Market and Duty Free store has been acquired by Yan Del Valle and his wife, Yeny.

The Saint John entrepreneurs have owned and operated Connections Bistro & Bar located inside the airport terminal since 2014.

“We thought it was a perfect fit for Connections Bistro to expand their services at the airport and also upgrade the offerings which are available at the departure lounge,” said Yan Del Valle.

The Del Valle’s took over the store on Jan. 1 in order to remodel the space. It reopened to the public on Feb. 6.

Up until now, travellers have only been able to purchase pre-packaged snacks once they have arrived in the post-security area.

But with the changes, all passengers will be able to enjoy a glass of wine, beer or cider, while waiting for their departing flight.

“Since we have the availability of preparing food in the kitchen of Connections Bistro, we’re going to be offering pre-packaged sandwiches, salads, plus pastries and coffee,” said Del Valle.

Del Valle said they see this as an upgrade to the experience for passengers using the airport.

The YSJ Market and Duty Free shop first opened in March 2017. But the owners — Creative Duty Free Shops — recently expressed an interest in selling, according to Derrick Stanford, president and CEO of the airport.

Stanford said the owners were able to broker a deal to have the Del Valle’s acquire it.

“We get excellent customer reviews on the quality of the food and the service that Yan provides to the airport, so to be able to make that offering in the secure area, or the departure lounge, is just a win for everyone,” said Stanford.

Yan and Yeny Dal Valle also own J Valle Cleaning and 14 1/2 Café and Bar located at Reversing Falls.