Lagardère Travel Retail wins major Duty Free tender at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Lagardère Travel Retail is thrilled to announce its successful bid for one of the most significant tenders in the Travel Retail industry, encompassing all Duty Free operations at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, Europe’s fourth-largest aviation hub. This move reflects a decade-long partnership between Lagardère Travel Retail and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and marks a transformative milestone in the airport's commercial strategy.
As part of this agreement, Lagardère Travel Retail would acquire 70% of the company that will operate the business, the remaining 30% being held by Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.
Building on ten years of successful operations in Fashion and Souvenirs at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, this tender win to operate over twenty Duty Free stores underscores Lagardère Travel Retail’s operational excellence and commitment to delivering world-class retail experiences.
The partnership encompasses key core categories, including perfumes & cosmetics, sunglasses, and liquor, tobacco & confectionery. The planned redevelopment will provide expanded and redesigned spaces elevating the retail offering to deliver a unique and memorable experience for travellers, through a seamless retail journey.
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport represents an unparalleled opportunity for Lagardère Travel Retail to expand its Duty Free presence in key European markets.
The completion of this transaction is subject to the approval of relevant Dutch competition authorities and other customary conditions, with finalization expected during H1 2025.
Dag Rasmussen, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lagardère Travel Retail, commented: “This partnership will solidify Lagardère Travel Retail's position as a major Duty Free operator in the European market. We are very pleased to have been selected by Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and looking forward to strengthening our long-term relationship. Together, we will aim to transform and elevate the retail experience.”
Lucio Rossetto, Chief Operating Officer Europe of Lagardère Travel Retail added: “Our shared vision is to transform the Duty Free experience into a world-leading standard, blending operational excellence with a uniquely Dutch sense of place. Together, we aim to set new benchmarks for the travel retail industry.”
Commented on this announcement, Arthur Reijnhart, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Commercial Director said: “The expansion of the cooperation with Lagardère Travel Retail is a very important moment for Schiphol in the implementation of our new retail strategy. With our intensive investment program over the next few years, we aim to restore Schiphol's magic and iconic status as a leading airport. With Lagardère Travel Retail, we have found a partner with whom we will transform our Duty Free stores into beautiful locations with a modern assortment, appealing prices and attractive appearance. The goal is to exceed the expectations of our passengers, and we are convinced that together with Lagardère Travel Retail we can achieve this.”
