MALTA. Dufry has signed a new agreement with Malta International Airport, which will see the retailer make a substantial investment in its three stores and increase commercial space by more than 20%.
In line with Dufry’s global plan to offer passengers a “WorldClass.WorldWide” experience, the retailer will extend and remodel its current walk-through departures store and relocate and expand its arrivals store. It also operates a last-minute shop.
The new contract term starts January 2019 and ends December 2026. Dufry currently operates four stores acorss 1,326sq m at the airport. It has been a key driver of Malta International Airport’s non-aeronautical revenue since commencing operations at this location in 2005, said the retailer.
The project is part of Malta International Airport’s aim to upgrade travellers’ shopping experience, provide an authentic sense of place, and give travellers a lasting impression of Malta.
On completion of the renovation works, the main departures store commercial area will cover around 1,400sq m and will be located on level 1 of Malta International Airport’s departure hall.
The renovation of the main store will include an improved walk-through passenger flow and will increase the space by 420sq m. The last minute and arrivals stores are also included in the new agreement and the arrivals store has a new location and increases in size as part of the remodeling project.
The product offer spans categories including Beauty, Liquor, Confectionery, Tobacco, and Souvenirs and Toys. A ‘Beauty Studio’ has been incorporated into the new store design for passengers to try products before buying and receive specialist advice from the consultants in store.
Malta International Airport’s passenger profile comprises mainly tourists, hence the departure store’s commercial offer and design draw inspiration from Maltese culture and heritage to create a strong sense of place. To complement this, a ‘Spirit of Malta’ area will be incorporated into the main departures store, with a selection of local products from the island.
The renovation works will begin this autumn and conclude in April 2018. The process will be carried out in phases to ensure minimal disruption to passengers, with the store remaining open throughout the renovation period.
Division CEO for Southern Europe & Africa Pedro Castro stated: “We are delighted to have signed this agreement and to have the opportunity to continue working with this great airport partner. We thank them for their confidence in Dufry to be part of the airport’s development. We are positive that our joint collaboration and planning will offer passengers a happy and memorable experience when travelling through Malta International Airport.”
Malta International Airport CEO Alan Borg added: “In recent years, we have been putting more effort in transforming the airport journey into an experience that delights travelers, and gives guests a first and last impression of our islands. We are confident that a revamped duty free store having a strong Maltese identity will continue to enhance the passenger experience.”