San José Mineta International Airport Continues to Expand Passenger Experience with PLAZA DE SAN JOSE, Featuring iStore Express
One-stop retail destination offers travel essentials, premium technology, local products and an innovative self-serve robotic smoothie experience
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PLAZA DE SAN JOSE in Terminal A, near Gate 13
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July 16, 2026
Media Contact:
SJC Media | 408-392-1199 | sjcmedia@sjc.org
San José, Calif. – San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) continues to elevate the passenger experience with the opening of PLAZA DE SAN JOSE, featuring iStore Express, an innovative new retail destination in Terminal A near Gate 13 that combines travel essentials, premium technology, grab-and-go refreshments and a first-of-its-kind automated, self-serve robotic machine from Smoodi that blends fresh fruit smoothies in under 60 seconds.
Operated by Paradies Lagardère, PLAZA DE SAN JOSE brings together two complementary retail concepts in a single location. Travelers can browse iStore Express for premium electronics, mobile accessories and travel technology while also shopping for snacks, beverages, locally inspired gifts and everyday travel essentials at the adjoining convenience market.
Passengers can also enjoy a freshly blended smoothie made in minutes using an automated self-serve smoothie machine, offering a convenient, nutritious option before takeoff. Smoodi provides pre-portioned, flash-frozen cups of 100% real fruit and natural ingredients (with zero added sugar). Simply select a pre-packed cup from the provided freezer, peel the safety seal off the cup, scan the cup under the robotic machine, then enjoy a fresh smoothie in under a minute.
The opening marks the latest enhancement to SJC's growing concessions program and follows the recent arrivals of Mi Casa Cantina, Asian Box and Bad Egg Breakfast Bar, providing travelers with more dining and shopping choices than ever before.
Whether replacing forgotten headphones, picking up a last-minute gift, grabbing refreshments for a flight or enjoying a freshly blended smoothie, PLAZA DE SAN JOSE offers travelers a convenient one-stop shopping experience designed to meet a variety of needs.
“Every new concession is another step toward delivering the exceptional customer experience travelers expect from San José Mineta International Airport,” said San José City Manager Jennifer Maguire. “PLAZA DE SAN JOSE featuring iStore Express gives passengers convenient access to everyday necessities, innovative technology, and healthy grab-and-go options, while supporting the Airport's continued evolution as a modern gateway to Silicon Valley.”
“SJC continues to invest in the amenities that make every journey easier and more enjoyable,” said San José Mayor Matt Mahan. “From innovative dining concepts to expanded retail options, SJC is creating an airport experience that reflects the creativity, convenience and hospitality our community is known for.”
“Our goal is to continually improve the traveler experience by offering more choice, greater convenience and amenities that reflect today's passengers,” said SJC director of aviation, Mookie Patel. “PLAZA DE SAN JOSE featuring iStore Express is another example of how we're enhancing the Airport through thoughtful partnerships and innovative concessions that make traveling through SJC even more enjoyable.”
“We're proud to expand our partnership with San José Mineta International Airport through a retail concept that meets travelers' needs from every angle,” said Gregg Paradies, CEO, Paradies Lagardère. “Whether passengers are looking for premium technology, local products, healthy refreshments or travel essentials, PLAZA DE SAN JOSE featuring iStore Express delivers a seamless shopping experience designed specifically for today's traveler.”
About San José Mineta International Airport (SJC): Fly Simple.
Fueled by a culture of innovation, San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) is the Bay Area's easiest and most dependable Airport due to its medium size, simple layout, temperate climate and location. SJC is located just minutes from downtown San José – the Bay Area’s largest city and the Capital of Silicon Valley. SJC is a self‐supporting enterprise owned and operated by the City of San José. According to a recent economic impact study, SJC supports more than 19,000 jobs throughout Santa Clara County and generates approximately $4.3 billion in annual economic activity.
SJC was rated California’s top-performing airport for on-time departures by Cirium in 2024 and 2025. SJC currently offers nonstop service to more than 40 domestic and international destinations. The Airport’s two fixed-base operators, as well as several corporate aviation tenants, serve the business aviation needs of Silicon Valley; corporate and general aviation traffic represents more than a quarter of aircraft operations at SJC. For more information and to connect with SJC on social media, visit flysanjose.com.
About Paradies Lagardère
Paradies Lagardère is a travel retailer and restaurateur that generates over $1.7 billion in annual sales from more than 700 stores, restaurants and bars in more than 90 airports across North America. Specializing in three airport concessions areas – Travel Essentials, Specialty Retail and Dining with expertise in international, national, and local brands – Paradies Lagardère’s commitment to exceptional customer service, superior design and award-winning retail and restaurant operations has earned the company numerous accolades, including Best Overall Retailer for the 29th consecutive year, Best Overall Restaurateur and Retailer with the Highest Regard for Customer Service by Airport Experience® News. For more information, visit paradieslagardere.com.
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