THE FOLLOWING IS A WATCHFIRE RELEASE
New digital display network enhances traveler engagement, increases visibility for airport concessions,
and supports real-time communications across two central passenger hubs.
DANVILLE, Ill., September 9, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — MarketPlace PHL, developer and operator of the concessions program at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), has selected Watchfire to modernize concessions communications with a new digital display network designed to keep pace with PHL’s constantly changing environment. Strategically installed in two central passenger hubs, the display network enables real-time messaging, promotes airport restaurants, shops, and services, supports special events, and provides the flexibility to adapt communications as needs change.
Installed in partnership with City Sign Service Inc., the project includes six high-resolution Watchfire indoor LED displays spanning approximately 258 linear feet across the B/C and D/E Connectors. These heavily traveled gathering areas connect passengers with food courts, retail, airport programming, and other amenities.
Managed through Watchfire’s Ignite OPx cloud-based content management platform, the indoor display network allows content to be updated across multiple locations from a centralized system. MarketPlace PHL can use Ignite OPx to schedule messages in advance or post updates immediately as promotions, events, and operational needs evolve.
“Our vision was to create communications that were as dynamic as the airport itself,” said Dana Krawchuk, marketing and guest experience manager for MarketPlace PHL. “Now we can update messaging in minutes, highlight merchants across a much larger area, support airport events, and keep information fresh, relevant, and engaging for passengers.”
The investment also creates greater opportunities to increase awareness of airport restaurants, retailers, and amenities. PHL is fully connected beyond its security checkpoints, allowing passengers to move between Terminals A and F without leaving the secure area. The displays can introduce travelers to dining, shopping, and experiences throughout the airport, not only those closest to their departure gate. This helps concession partners reach more passengers while encouraging travelers to explore more of what PHL has to offer.
“MarketPlace PHL had a clear vision for creating a more connected and engaging passenger experience,” said Jeff Carson, director of sales at City Sign Service Inc. “Watchfire’s technology and support gave our team the tools to bring that vision to life within a complex, continuously operating airport environment.”
That flexibility is especially valuable during a landmark year for Philadelphia, highlighted by America’s 250th anniversary, the FIFA World Cup, and Major League Baseball’s All-Star festivities. The network also supports the airport concessions program’s year-round events and experiential programming, including activities in the B/C Connector, a prominent gathering space with a stage and food court.
MarketPlace PHL spent nearly two years evaluating digital communications solutions before selecting Watchfire. In addition to image quality, the airport prioritized cybersecurity, integrated hardware and software, ease of content management, training, responsive support, and the ability to expand the network over time. Watchfire’s integrated approach gives MarketPlace PHL a foundation for a broader airport-wide communications strategy, with future displays capable of being managed through the same platform.
“What ultimately set Watchfire apart was the complete solution,” Krawchuk said. “The technology, software, security, training, and support gave us confidence throughout the process. Looking back, I only wish we had found Watchfire sooner.”
Since the displays went live, airport leaders and information desk volunteers have reported positive feedback, including travelers stopping to view the new content. PHL’s concessions program is continuing to expand its messaging strategy and is evaluating opportunities to add more Watchfire displays in additional locations.
“MarketPlace PHL was not simply looking to replace static signage,” said Kyle Dines, vice president of sports and indoor at Watchfire. “They were building the foundation for an airport-wide communications platform that can serve passengers and concession partners today while providing the flexibility to expand as future needs evolve. We are proud they selected Watchfire as their partner.”
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About MarketPlace PHL
MarketPlace PHL, LLC, is the private partner with the City of Philadelphia in the management of the food and retail programs throughout Philadelphia International Airport. The award-winning program offers more than 170 shops, restaurants and services. The MarketPlace PHL portfolio features local Philly favorites, as well as regional and national brands. MarketPlace PHL, LLC, is a partnership between MarketPlace Development, a Boston-based airport retail development firm, and LeJeune & Associates, a Philadelphia-based retail development, management and consulting firm. For more information, visit the PHL Food & Shops website.
About Watchfire
Watchfire designs and engineers the best-looking, most durable outdoor LED signs, indoor displays, digital billboards, and video scoreboards, helping businesses and organizations communicate effectively, increase visibility, and drive growth. Headquartered in Danville, Ill., Watchfire has manufactured electric signs for more than 90 years and LED signs since 1998, using meticulously sourced components from around the world. Watchfire has more than 70,000 LED signs in operation worldwide and more digital billboard customers in the U.S. than any other brand. For more information, visit watchfire.com or follow Watchfire on LinkedIn.
Watchfire designs and engineers the best-looking, most durable outdoor LED signs, indoor displays, digital billboards, and video scoreboards, helping businesses and organizations communicate effectively, increase visibility, and drive growth. Headquartered in Danville, Ill., Watchfire has manufactured electric signs for more than 90 years and LED signs since 1998, using meticulously sourced components from around the world. Watchfire has more than 70,000 LED signs in operation worldwide and more digital billboard customers in the U.S. than any other brand. For more information, visit watchfire.com or follow Watchfire on LinkedIn.
