JAPAN. L’Oréal Travel Retail Asia Pacific has unveiled an Aesop store at Kansai International Airport (KIX) in collaboration with Lagardère Travel Retail.
The store design honours traditional Japanese aesthetics, tailored specifically to appeal to KIX’s traveller demographic.
Central to the concept is the integration of traditional light-diffusing ‘Paper Walls’ alongside elements inspired by the Noguchi lamp’s simplicity. The Noguchi lamp, well-known for combining traditional Japanese craftsmanship with contemporary design, was originally conceived by Isamu Noguchi in 1951 and handcrafted for over half a century by its original manufacturer in Gifu.
Through these design elements the Aesop store delivers a strong sense of place, enabling travellers to engage with local cultural and aesthetic traditions in a tranquil and serene shopping environment.
According to Aesop, the store was designed to facilitate a more relaxed shopping experience that drives higher conversion rates amid the busy airport environment.
It offers elevated sensory engagement and personalised service. Central to this is Aesop’s signature experiential sink, which invites customers to discover the brand’s sensorial textures and fragrances first-hand.
L’Oréal Travel Retail Asia Pacific Managing Director Jesús Abia commented, “The interplay between Aesop and its environment is not simply a design principle; it is the very essence of the brand’s enduring characteristic, a key differentiator in travel retail.
“Here, within the dynamic pulse of Kansai International Airport, a truly pivotal global gateway, the store’s inherent connection to the local aesthetic and its deeply considered design, meticulously inspired by traditional Japanese elements, will truly elevate the traveller’s journey, fostering a profound sense of place. This enhanced customer experience is paramount for driving engagement and spend.
“It is our intention to enrich skin, awaken senses, soothe the self and harmonise surrounds.”
He added: “We are profoundly elated to introduce this significant Aesop store – a strategic investment in a vital market – within such a globally connected travel hub, and we eagerly anticipate offering unparalleled immersive retail experiences that will resonate deeply and memorably with every individual embarking on their journey through KIX, delivering strong commercial returns for our partnership.” ✈
