Detroit City Wire

Travelers passing through Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport can now visit two distinctive small businesses as part of a new initiative. Rebel Nell, a jewelry company based in Detroit, and Quix Chocolate from Ferndale are the first participants in the Small Business Operators Arriving Ready (SOAR) pilot program. These businesses have set up shop in newly constructed spaces within the Warren Cleage Evans Terminal.

Detroit Metro Airport, Michigan's largest airport, serves as a major air transportation hub globally, with over 31 million passengers recorded in 2023. The SOAR program provides an opportunity for Rebel Nell and Quix Chocolate to present their products to both domestic and international travelers.

The concept of SOAR was introduced by Renata C. Evans, Wayne County's First Lady and former small-business owner. Her aim was to offer small business owners necessary tools and retail space at the airport. After years of planning, the program launched this summer with potential plans for expansion.

Chad Newton, CEO of Wayne County Airport Authority stated: "With the addition of Rebel Nell and Quix Chocolate, DTW customers have more options in the Evans Terminal." He expressed pleasure in welcoming these businesses as they empower entrepreneurs to grow further.

Rebel Nell focuses on providing employment opportunities for women facing barriers to traditional employment such as homelessness or mental illness. They create unique jewelry using materials like fallen graffiti from Detroit landmarks. Co-founder Amy Peterson has long aimed to open a store at Metro Airport.

Peterson commented: "We are honored and excited to be a part of the SOAR Small Business Program," expressing gratitude for the chance given by the airport.

Quix Chocolate started as a family business in Belgium before establishing itself in Ferndale. Now located near gate D12 alongside Rebel Nell, it offers Belgian chocolates made with original recipes and seasonal flavors like Bananas Foster.

David Ogloza, president of Quix Chocolate said: "We are thrilled to open a venue at the airport where we can provide travelers with fine Belgian chocolate."

Both stores contribute uniquely crafted items representing local culture while enhancing passenger experience at Detroit Metro Airport.

Newton added appreciation towards Mrs. Renata Evans for her role in developing SOAR: "Small businesses are at heart of Michigan’s economy... one more way that DTW is investing."