POLAND. Baltona has unveiled a 504sq m new-look main duty-free store at Kraków Airport, described as the retailer’s largest investment for 2026.
Located at the passenger terminal, Kraków Duty Free features a locally inspired design showcasing the city’s history, heritage and wider regional identity, which UK-based The Design Solution played a key role in developing.
The grand opening brought together Baltona CEO Wojciech Czernek and Member of the Management Board Tomasz Marczak; Polish Airports CEO Łukasz Chaberski; and Krakow Airport CEO Łukasz Strutyński.
Baltona CEO Wojciech Czernek said, “We are delighted to announce the opening of the Krakow Duty Free by Baltona shop, a milestone that marks a truly special moment for us.
“The scale of this project, its local, authentic character and world-class standards make this investment one of the most significant in Baltona’s recent history.
“We are proud to be present at Kraków Airport – the fastest-growing airport in this part of Europe – which confirms our ambitions and Baltona’s position as the Polish leader in the travel retail market.”
Delivered on schedule within 60 days, the project was achieved through close cooperation with Kraków Airport staff and progressed without disruption. The space was handed over in just one week, with a temporary store ensuring continuous service during the renovation.
Polish Airports CEO Łukasz Chaberski said, “The opening of the Baltona shop at Krakow Airport is a special moment for us, as this is an airport in which PPL is the majority shareholder and which we regard as a strategic hub within the network of Polish airports.
“This investment demonstrates not only the airport’s dynamic growth, but also the potential of Polish companies to deliver world-class projects.
“We are particularly pleased that Baltona is part of the PPL S.A. Capital Group, thanks to which we are jointly developing modern standards of passenger service and retail infrastructure at Polish airports.”
Design cues for the revamped store were taken from the legend of the fire-breathing Wawel Dragon, combining in-store digital solutions and intuitive wayfinding, said the retailer.
The Design Solution Director Nick Taylor added, “Our aim was to create a space that is not only functional but, above all, builds a connection with travellers by telling the fascinating story of Krakow.
“As a result, passengers can experience the magic of this extraordinary city once again just before boarding the plane.”
A key highlight of the duty-free store is its open, intuitive walk-through layout, designed to improve traffic flow and shopper movement across the full product range.
Technology-led features are integrated throughout the store, including electronic price tags and self-checkout stations, while a regional-themed zone uses LED displays to showcase products from Krakowski Kredens, Wierzynek, Wawel and Alta Saska.
Alongside its local assortment, the store features a strong line-up of global brands, with dedicated areas for Dior and Inglot.
The opening aligns with sustained traffic momentum at the airport, which welcomed a record 1,214,353 passengers in April, a +13% year-on-year rise. Since the beginning of 2026, passenger volumes have surpassed 4.25 million.
Krakow Airport CEO Łukasz Strutyński said: “Krakow Airport’s record results demand top-class retail infrastructure. The new Baltona shop fits perfectly with our development strategy, a key element of which is creating positive passenger experiences.” ✈
