SPAIN. Spanish airports operator Aena has launched the third edition of its Enjoy Aena Awards, expanding the programme to 13 awards as it seeks to further strengthen the initiative’s position as a benchmark for travel retail, customer experience and airport innovation.
The awards recognise the contribution of commercial partners operating across the Aena airport network and their role in enhancing the passenger experience.
Following two editions which have attracted leading travel retail and food & beverage operators, Aena noted the programme continues to place a strong emphasis on innovation, service quality and the ability of commercial partners to adapt to changing consumer expectations.
Previous winners have included major industry players such as Lagardère Travel Retail, SSP, Avolta, Areas, Pansfood and Samsonite.
Airports recognised in earlier editions include Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas, Recife and Asturias.
The awards have also highlighted projects focused on innovation, sustainability, customer experience and mobility, while honouring notable industry figures including Spanish designer Roberto Verino.
The third edition broadens the programme’s reach, with awards covering travel retail operators across food & beverage, retail, car rental and advertising.
Additional categories recognise the best travel influencer, airports within the Aena network and an honorary award.
Aena Chief Commercial and Real Estate Officer María José Cuenda said: “Airports are increasingly dynamic spaces today, where the commercial offering plays a key role in the passenger experience, which can no longer be conceived without a carefully curated, diverse and well-thought-out proposition.
“With these awards we want to celebrate the brands that are raising that standard and making a difference along the way.”
The awards will again be judged by an independent panel of professionals from a range of sectors. The 2025 awards were judged by an independent panel chaired by Mango Chairman of the Board and CEO Toni Ruiz. He was joined by industry leaders from fashion, aviation, media, finance and travel, including The Moodie Davitt Report Founder and Chairman Martin Moodie.
Passenger feedback will also form part of the evaluation process for the airport categories in 2026.
The 2026 ceremony will take place on 27 October at Madrid’s Teatro Real.
The registration period is now open and both commercial operators in the Aena network and airports may submit their candidacy through the official website here. ✈
