American Express makes Mainland China airport lounge debut at Shanghai Hongqiao

CHINA. American Express has opened its first airport lounge in Mainland China. The facility at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport represents a milestone in the company’s network expansion.

The 146sq m lounge in Terminal 2’s pre-security area will welcome eligible domestic and international card members from later in April.

The Shanghai Hongqiao International lounge joins the more than 1,550-strong American Express Global Lounge Collection

The move underlines the company’s continued investment in travel-related benefits and infrastructure in China, a market where it has steadily strengthened its presence since becoming the first foreign payments network licensed to clear Renminbi transactions.

The lounge has been designed to reflect Shanghai’s architectural character while aligning with American Express’ global lounge design standards.

The lounge offers panoramic Shanghai Hongqiao airfield views via floor-to-ceiling windows

It offers a mix of individual and group seating alongside dining-style arrangements, catering to both productivity and relaxation.

Food & beverage provision includes a selection of locally inspired dishes, light snacks and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, served within a shared dining space on the 21M floor.

Additional features include charging points, flight information displays and access to a terrace overlooking the runway.

The lounge is officially opened by (from left) Express (Hangzhou) Technology Service Co. Chief Executive Officer Yamin Zhu; American Express Group President, Global Merchant & Network Services Anna Marrs; and American Express Senior Vice President, Enterprise China Management Tim Creber

Guests may also benefit from a dedicated security screening lane for 21M floor lounges, subject to availability.

American Express Group President, Global Merchant & Network Services Anna Marrs said: “The latest addition to the American Express Global Lounge Collection is designed for local, regional and international business and leisure travellers alike, offering premium amenities and a beautiful place to relax and recharge before your flight.”

Express (Hangzhou) Technology Service Co. Chief Executive Officer Yamin Zhu commented: “Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport is a vital hub for both domestic and international travellers, and we’re thrilled to introduce the American Express Lounge experience to this dynamic city in the Chinese mainland.

“The lounge is designed as a curated extension of the journey, blending comfort, convenience and local inspiration to enhance every travel moment for eligible American Express Card Members.”

The Moodie Davitt Report is delighted to publish Airport Hospitality World, the latest edition to its wide-ranging, market-leading travel retail and airport non-aeronautical revenues publishing and event portfolio.

Airport Hospitality World covers all forms of airport lounges across international and domestic terminals, including various definitions as follows:

  • Pay-per-use
  • First Class and Business Class
  • Airline-affiliated
  • Alliance-based
  • Credit card-linked

Plus other hospitality-related platforms:

  • Airport hotels
  • Meet & Greet
  • Concierge services
  • Rewards
  • Baggage wrap and other related services
  • Miscellaneous passenger support programmes (buggies, porter services and more)
  • Pet facilities and services

Excitingly, the long-established Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Conference & Awards will embrace Airport Hospitality World from the 2026 edition – the event’s 15th anniversary. The event will take on an extended form, featuring an exhibition and the ultimate one-stop airport hospitality and food & beverage conference and awards platform.

Scan the QR codes via WeChat to visit our platforms. Stories related to the China travel retail sector at home and abroad are featured in this unrivalled dual service. For native content opportunities please contact Zhang Yimei (China) at Yimei@MoodieDavittReport.com or Irene Revilla (international) at Irene@MoodieDavittReport.com. For editorial please reach out to Martin Moodie at Martin@MoodieDavittReport.com

Food & Beverage The Magazine eZine