ITALY. Former Abu Dhabi Airports Managing Director and CEO Elena Sorlini has commenced a new role as CEO of Grandi Stazioni Retail (GSR) from the start of this month, returning to her native Italy.
GSR holds exclusive rights to commercial and advertising spaces across 14 major Italian railway stations, including Rome Termini, Milan Centrale and Naples Centrale. Combined, they serve over 800 million visitors annually.
Across those rail stations, the company operates 775 retail and food & beverage locations, as well managing more than 1,800 media assets.
GSR changed ownership in August last year, with DWS Group and OMERS Infrastructure acquiring 100% of the business from previous owners Antin Infrastructure Partners, ICAMAP and Borletti Group.
Sorlini said of her new challenge: “After many years abroad, it feels truly special to be back home and to begin this new chapter in Italy – while continuing my journey in the world of travel retail.
“Grandi Stazioni Retail plays a unique role at the crossroads of mobility, cities and people, shaping the passenger experience across some of the country’s most iconic railway stations.
“These are not just transit hubs, but vibrant urban destinations where retail, services and everyday life come together.
“I’m excited to work with the team to build on the strong foundations already in place, continue innovating and further enhance the experience for millions of travellers every year.
“Grateful for the trust placed in me by DWS Group and OMERS Infrastructure very much looking forward to what we will achieve together.”
Reflecting on her time with Abu Dhabi Airports, she commented on LinkedIn: “It has been a true honor and privilege to lead this company during such a defining period of growth and transformation.
“I am profoundly grateful to my extraordinary team. Among all the milestones we achieved together, you are what I am most proud of – your passion and commitment made everything possible.
“Zayed International Airport will always hold a very special place in my heart. I will cherish the memories, the challenges we overcame and the incredible journey we shared.”
Sorlini continues her work as a Board Member for Abu Dhabi Aviation and Abu Dhabi real-estate company, Peninsula. ✈
