Dufry extends Malta airport concession agreement
Dufry has announced the extension of its concession agreement to operate three stores at Malta International airport.
The new contract will see the retailer increase its commercial space in the airport by more than 20% and will run from January 2019 to December 2026.
Dufry said the contract renewal includes a substantial investment for the extension and remodelling of the current walkthrough departures store, along with an arrivals store and last-minute shop.
On completion of the renovation, the main departures store commercial area will cover around 1,400sq m, with the renovation covering an improved walkthrough passenger flow and will increase the space by 420sq m . The lastminute and arrivals stores are also included in the new agreement; the arrivals store has a new location and increases in size as part of the remodelling project.
Most travellers flying through Malta International airport are tourists and the departure store’s commercial offer and design draw inspiration from Maltese culture and heritage to create a strong sense of place and a lasting memory of the island. 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.
Valletta is the 2018 European Capital of Culture and the renovation work, which begins this autumn, will conclude in April 2018 ahead of the majority of the cultural celebrations. Dufry added the process will be carried out in phases to ensure minimal disruption to passengers, with the stores 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 travellers and gives guests a first and last impression of our islands. We are confident a revamped dutyfree store having a strong Maltese identity will continue to enhance the passenger experience.”