Malta Airport signs agreement with Dufry for reconceived duty free store

Malta International Airport has signed a new concession agreement with 'the world’s leading travel retailer' Dufry, for the operation of the duty free store between 2019 and 2026

The airport handles over five million passengers annually, with over 97% of all Malta's tourists travelling through it, from over 80 destinations
The airport handles over five million passengers annually, with over 97% of all Malta's tourists travelling through it, from over 80 destinations

Malta International airport (MIA) has signed a new concession agreement with Dufry, for the operation of the terminal’s duty free store, between January 2019 and December 2026.

This sets in motion works, in preparation for the “embellishment and extension” of the duty-free area, which will occupy around 1,400 square meters on level one of the airport. The aim, said MIA, is to upgrade “travellers’ shopping experience” and give them “an authentic taste of Malta”.

CEO of MIA, Alan Borg said that “we are confident that a revamped duty free store having a strong Maltese identity will continue to enhance the passenger experience”.

Pedro Castro, Division CEO Southern Europe and Africa, Dufry praised the airport and thanked them for their confidence in the company.

“We are positive that our joint collaboration and planning will offer passengers a happy and memorable experience when travelling through Malta International Airport”, he said.

Dufry, a Swiss-based company, currently operates in around 2,200 duty-free and paid shops in airports, railway stations, cruise lines and central tourist areas.

The reconceived store, said MIA, will incorporate well-known sections such as the tobacco and spirits area and the fragrance aisles, and introduce “new concepts”, such as a “Beauty Studio, where passengers can try on” the make-up brands for themselves.

The “Spirit of Malta shop” will also included, which will showcase “the finest local products and delicacies, which are an ideal take-home gift for travellers wanting a lingering taste of the islands after their holiday”, said the airport.