New and larger retail experience coming to Christchurch Airport
Doubling the size of the international retail space at Christchurch Airport is one of the many changes coming as a
result of the appointment of a new world leading concessionaire.
The airport has just signed a new eight-year concession with Lagardere Travel Retail, which, along with the introduction
of a new larger Duty Free offering under the Aelia brand, will see the addition of four new retail offerings, including
a hero South Island inspired bar.
Lagardère Travel Retail is a pioneering global leader in the travel retail industry. It operates 4,431 stores across
Travel Essentials, Duty Free and Foodservice in airports, railway stations and other concessions in 34 countries
worldwide.
The airport’s Chief Aeronautical and Commercial Officer, Justin Watson, says the first stage of the changes will begin
next month with the introduction of Aelia Duty Free to international arrivals and departures, in time for the busy
upcoming summer season, with the second phase being completed by November 2019.
“We are very excited about the changes that are coming and are pleased to have such a significant global retailer
aligned to deliver the aspirations for the airport. Together we are planning new experiential and digital developments
to showcase the South Island to our visitors,” he says.
“Overall there will be six new or expanded retail concepts in the Duty Free space, including Aelia Duty Free in arrivals
and departures, Relay, a specialist confectionery store, clothing, locally inspired products, and new bar and café
offerings. Increasing the spaces and the offerings is designed to provide more choice and a better experience for our
ever increasing number of visitors, as well as South Islanders going off to see the world.”
ends