Sustainability factored into design of Keflavik’s new duty free shops

Duty free operator Gebr. Heinemann notes that sustainability played a key role in the design of its newly renovated ÍSLAND Duty Free shops at Keflavík Airport.

Indeed, it is quick to point out that sustainability was integrated into the concept from the beginning.

The regional fixtures were produced using 3D robotics from Nagami and made from recycled plastic, partly from the ocean.

The stores also use recycled materials such as Omexco MINERALS wall coverings made from recycled paper and fine mica.

While energy-efficient LED lighting, digital shelf labels, the elimination of single-use plastic bags and a Dopper water station offering free refills with fresh tap water in co-operation with Isavia support more circular day-to-day operations.

Heinemann operates three retail spaces at Keflavík Airport: a 1,600sqm departure shop, a 2,000sqm Arrivals shop, and a gate shop, which between them offer the core duty-free categories of tobacco, confectionery, beauty, spirits, fashion, accessories, gifting and convenience products.

In departures, an open shopfront and multi-directional access support easy orientation through the main categories.

At the heart of the store, a dedicated regional area developed together with Icelandic firm Basalt Architects, one of Iceland’s most renowned design studios, showcases Icelandic products in a setting rooted in local identity.

The design includes a milky blue floor reminiscent of the Blue Lagoon, a ceiling installation evoking geothermal steam, distinctive materials and 3D-printed sculptural elements.

While the Arrivals shop is designed for speed, clarity and convenience, with strong allowance communication, generous routes towards baggage claim and a broad assortment led by liquor alongside beauty, confectionery, tobacco, gifting accessories and travel essentials.

Max Heinemann, Co-CEO of Gebr. Heinemann, says: “With ÍSLAND Duty Free, we are opening a new chapter for travel retail at Keflavík Airport. We are grateful for Isavia’s trust and proud to bring our international Travel Retail expertise to Iceland with deep respect for the country, its people and its brands.”

The result, says Heinemann, is a shopping experience designed specifically for Iceland rather than a generic international airport concept.

Inspired by the country’s landscapes, from geothermal lagoons and flowing water to lava fields and newly formed terrain, the shops combine intuitive orientation, modern services, digital tools and a strong sense of place.

Sveinbjörn Indriðason, CEO of Isavia, says: “At Keflavík Airport we connect the world through Iceland, and the experience we offer here matters. A strong duty-free offering plays an important role in the airport’s competitiveness.

“With Heinemann’s industry knowledge and expertise, we look forward to further enhancing the customer journey for travellers while creating value for Icelandic brands and the country as a whole.”