This week has seen the announcement and opening of the first Techshowcase at Oakland International Airport's Terminal 2.

HMSHost: a world leader in travel shopping, dining and airport technology retailer and Airport Wireless the developer and operator of a high technology airport retail store have joined forces.

Techshowcase features mobile consumer electronic devices from the world's leading manufacturers, including Belkin, BlackBerry, Boingo Wireless, Energizer, Igo, Klipsch, Logitech, Motorola, Nokia, Parrott, Plantronics, Sirius, Sony, and Superior Communications.

Known for its extensive airport retail electronics experience, Airport Wireless created Techshowcase to meet travelers' demands for the latest high technology brands. Techshowcase incorporates multiple leading brand technology manufacturers into one easy-to-shop store. Each store is designed to convey the atmosphere of a "please touch" science museum, with live technology demonstration units mounted on interactive display fixtures.

"We are pleased to bring Techshowcase to Oakland International travelers, which is yet another innovative and in-demand airport retail store that offers a wealth of proven brands," said Steven Grossman, Director of Aviation for the Port of Oakland, which owns and operates the airport. "With our concessions partner, HMSHost, we continue to enhance the interior landscape of our airport, all part of our $300 million Terminal Improvement Program."

"Business travelers are able to put their dwell time to productive use by shopping for high-quality mobile electronic products and accessories to keep them connected while on the road," said Ilene Berman, Co-CEO, Airport Wireless. "Techshowcase also accommodates the needs of non-business travelers seeking mobile phone accessories, a high-quality entertainment device, headphones, batteries, gifts, and more. We have approximately 20 locations slated to open over the next 18 months in airports such as Miami, San Francisco, New York, Dallas, Houston, Pittsburgh, Atlanta, Washington and Chicago."

Each manufacturer's interactive display unit and product occupies a branded and distinct "mini-store" inside the Techshowcase store. Interactive exhibits are frequently replaced or refreshed with the latest merchandise so that travelers may enjoy a new experience upon each visit. Because Techshowcase provides electronics manufacturers direct access to their target demographic, many new products will be launched at Techshowcase locations before other venues. This presents an unusual and rare opportunity for an airport to provide an exclusive experience to its patrons.

"HMSHost is pleased to partner with Airport Wireless and the Port of Oakland to offer this extraordinary venue for airport travelers to get the latest and highest quality consumer electronic brands," says Pat Banducci, Senior Vice President, Business Development for HMSHost. "I'm sure Oakland is just the first of many airports that will want a Techshowcase to serve its travelers."