UAE. Dubai Duty Free has unveiled a new dedicated Sunglass Shop in the centre of its Sheikh Rashid Terminal shopping complex, which is aimed at meeting the increase in demand for this category.
The Sunglass Shop was officially opened by HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president of the Department of Civil Aviation and chairman of Emirates Group.
Dubai Duty Free sold over 40,000 pairs of sunglasses in 2002, representing a +27% increase in sales over 2001. Since the opening of the new Sunglass Shop, sales have already increased by +30%.
Commenting on the new retail area, Dubai Duty Free managing director Colm McLoughlin said: “We have witnessed a tremendous increase in demand for sunglasses, which were originally located within the Sports and Fashion area. This increase is due in part to the growing appeal of sunglasses as a fashion accessory and to the wide range of glasses now available. As a result of this demand, it makes sense to create a dedicated retail area which makes sunglasses even more accessible to travellers.”
The new Sunglass Shop consists primarily of wall and gondola units, which are located parallel to the Gold Shop and adjacent to the Perfumery. The sunglasses are on open display and this has encouraged travellers to browse and sample the range of styles for themselves.
“With over 1,500 pairs on display across 35 brands, the customer has a vast selection from which to choose,” McLoughlin added. Over 70% of Dubai Duty Free’s sunglasses are sourced locally, through approved distributors and agents. With additional gondolas already planned within the new Sunglass Shop, the operation will extend the number of sunglasses on display by 50%.
