Expanding Riga Airport launches tender for more than 4,000sq m of commercial space

LATVIA. Riga Airport has announced an international tender for the management of its passenger terminal commercial space.

The tender initially incorporates a floor area of more than 4,000sq m embracing duty free (2,006sq m), food & beverage (1,314sq m), convenience stores (209sq m) and a business lounge (633sq m).

Each area will come with substantial stockroom areas, relative to the space size.

Riga Airport has an expanding commercial offer, a key element in its bid to become recognised as Northern Europe’s premier travel hub

The tender is divided into four separate lots, however combined bids are allowed for duty-free, F&B and convenience stores.

The 12-year contract(s) will commence in Q1 2027, following the expiration of the current concession agreement with TAV Latvia, and finish at the end of 2038.

Summary of tender space sizes, including commercial space areas after the terminal expansion is complete {Click to enlarge}

A terminal extension project begins construction this year, which will eventually more than double the current commercial area. Notably, the food & beverage offer will almost triple in size to 3,618sq m.

Riga Airport Commercial Director Vaiva Kirvelaite told The Moodie Davitt Report that the contract winner(s) will have the opportunity to run the expanded spaces under a ten-year contract.

An artist’s impressions of how the extended Riga Airport terminal will look

The extended terminal will be completed in 2028/29 and eventually cover 30,000sq m. Also in progress is a mixed-use development adjacent to the airport called RIX Airport City.

Riga Airport Chairperson of the Board Laila Odiņa said, Air travel today is a multifaceted passenger experience that includes not only essential airport services but also the added value of shopping, leisure and entertainment.

“In seeking new commercial operators, with the construction of the new terminal we aim to reimagine this offer and elevate its quality. This tender is a key part of our strategic vision to enhance the travel experience and build top-tier commercial partnerships.

“We are seeking forward-thinking, experienced partners who are ready to collaborate in bringing together Riga Airport’s strategic vision to life – becoming Northern Europe’s premier travel hub, renowned for exceptional, innovative services and a seamless, inspiring passenger experience.”

At the qualification stage, Riga Airport said it invites experienced international operators of commercial areas in international airports or on cruise ships from around the world to participate. Shortlisted candidates will then be asked to submit detailed technical and financial proposals.

The results of the tender are expected to be announced in early 2026.

Interested parties can access the tender documentation via the Publications Management System and the Procurement Monitoring Bureau of Latvia, and also at https://ted.europa.eu/en/.

The deadline for submitting qualification applications is 6 August 2025 11:00am local time. For enquiries, contact Vaiva Kirvelaite by email at v.kirvelaite@riga-airport.com.

TENDER ALERT 

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