Buy and fly

We review the opening of some new retail and F&B outlets that have helped enhance the shopping and dining experience at airports this year.

The opportunity for airports to update, modify or even transform their retail and F&B outlets doesn’t come along very often, so when it does, making the right choice for any new concession is crucial as it could impact on everything from customer satisfaction levels to commercial income.

New terminals or the extension of existing facilities, and the end of traditionally lengthy concessionaire contracts, arguably give airports the best opportunity to make the biggest changes and create something new, either with the existing providers or other retail/F&B partners.

We provide examples of both scenarios and showcase a couple of individual outlet openings in this article.

HIGH QUALITY OFFERINGS IN MUNICH’S NEW PIER

Munich Airport believes that its new T1 Pier for non-Schengen traffic introduces a new world of shopping, services and dining that plays a defining role in the overall travel experience.

The offering includes five new restaurants and 20 retail and service areas surrounding a central marketplace the airport hopes will stand out for its appealing atmosphere.

One of the key highlights is Munich Airport’s first walk-through duty-free store. Located directly after security, it guides passengers through a curated retail space bringing together beauty, spirits and accessories.

A significant part of the retail offer is operated by eurotrade Flughafen München Handels GmbH, a subsidiary of Munich Airport.

“With the new eurotrade spaces in the T1 Pier, we are creating a shopping experience that is consistently designed from the passenger’s perspective: easily accessible, high-quality and seamlessly integrated into the passenger flow,” enthuses Sven Zahn, managing director of eurotrade Flughafen München Handels GmbH.

“The walk-through duty-free store is a strong signal for the continued development of travel retail at Munich Airport.”

RETAIL SPACE REOPENS AT VILNIUS AIRPORT

Gebr. Heinemann subsidiary Travel Retail Vilnius (TRV) has reopened its fundamentally redesigned duty-free and travel value shop within the Schengen area of Vilnius Airport.

The reopening is closely linked to the airport’s ongoing large-scale modernisation programme, which includes the launch of a new departure terminal, the reconstruction of existing terminal spaces, and the expansion of commercial areas to enhance the overall passenger experience.

A key element of this development is the creation of integrated retail environments within newly designed passenger flows, as Vilnius Airport adapts to growing passenger numbers and rising expectations regarding comfort, services and shopping opportunities.

The centrepiece is a new walk-through store in the Schengen area, covering 1,300 square metres, which is around 55% larger than the previous retail space. By the end of the year, TRV will also open its Non-Schengen-Shop.

PERTH UNVEILS CONCESSION REFRESH

Perth Airport has unveiled its refreshed T1 International retail and hospitality precinct, marking a major investment in the passenger experience as the gateway prepares to welcome in excess of 50,000 passengers a day during the winter school holidays.

The completion of a significant T1 International food, beverage and retail refresh has introduced 14 new and revitalised outlets across the terminal, delivering a stronger mix of dining, shopping, local produce, travel essentials and premium experiences for passengers.

The new precinct brings together global retail operators and leading local brands, with partners including Avolta, Lagardère AWPL, Delaware North, SSP, WHSmith and Smarte Carte helping deliver a more contemporary international terminal experience.

“Airports are often the first and last impression travellers have of a destination, and this refresh gives us the opportunity to showcase Western Australia in a stronger way,” noted Kate Holsgrove, the airport’s chief commercial and aviation officer.

“From local food and beverage operators to WA gifting, wine, design and hospitality, the precinct helps bring a stronger sense of place to the international passenger journey.”

MILESTONES ALL ROUND AT KIX

Kansai International Airport (KIX) has inaugurated the expanded and fully renovated international retail area of Terminal 1, marking the completion of an ambitious renovation project launched in 2021.

The new concessions area boasts 24 retail outlets that include luxury brands, speciality shops offering popular regional products, a variety of restaurants and Japan’s largest walk-through duty free shop.

The opening coincided with the 10th anniversary of Kansai Airports’ concession for KIX, and signalled the completion of the renovation of Terminal 1.

GIRAFFE LANDS IN EDINBURGH

Edinburgh Airport has opened a Giraffe restaurant and will also offer a takeaway service, Giraffe Stop, with a dedicated grab and go area allowing passengers to pick up freshly prepared food and snacks to enjoy on the move or take on board their flight.

The Scottish gateway’s chief commercial officer, Stephanie Wear, said: “We know people are hungry to travel and we want to cater for that. Bringing Giraffe to the airport adds to the strong family offer of food and drink options we have for passengers.

“With both a full-service restaurant and a convenient takeaway option, it gives passengers international cuisine with flexibility and choice – and full stomachs before heading off on that well-earned break.”

TRIBUTE TO BELFAST’S UNIQUE CULTURE

SSP Group has opened Flax & Soda, a new casual dining restaurant celebrating the best of Northern Ireland as part of Belfast International Airport’s £100 million investment programme.

In 2025, Belfast International Airport embarked on a five-year journey to transform passenger experiences, with SSP playing a significant role in improving the range of F&B outlets into a modern, passenger-friendly hub of dining options.

The final phase of F&B developments is expected to be completed later this year, including a brand new 300-cover premium bar and kitchen concept.

The airport’s chief commercial officer, Kate Sherry, said: “Flax and Soda is more than just a dining destination – it’s a tribute to the vibrant culture that makes Belfast and the entire region unique.”