Key Greek gain as Avolta extends retail contract with Athens International Airport by ten years to 2034

GREECE. In a big boost to its Greek and European portfolio, Avolta has struck a ten-year contract extension for its Athens International Airport retail portfolio until the beginning of 2034.

The extension means Avolta will continue to operate 31 stores, over a combined floor space of more than 4,900sq m in Greece’s busiest airport.

Avolta said the agreement underscores the significance of its strong business partnerships in realising the company’s Destination 2027 strategy to create a travel experience revolution.

Avolta’s subsidiary Hellenic Duty Free Shops has operated duty-free stores at Athens International Airport since the airport commenced operations in 2001. Dufry (now Avolta) acquired the business in 2013.

In February this year, Avolta increased its retail footprint by approximately 290sq m as part of a refurbishment of the Schengen area’s expansive walk-through duty-free store.

The developments will enhance Avolta’s product offering by elevating the key perfume and cosmetics section and extending the accessories range.

Travellers will also enjoy a more seamless shopping experience, Avolta pledged, featuring expanded checkout areas and the option for self check-out.

Unique design elements will evoke the ambiance of Greece, creating a distinct Sense of Place for travellers while showcasing Greek local products, cuisine, and souvenirs.

Avolta President and CEO Europe, Middle East and Africa Luis Marin said: “We are thankful to Athens International Airport and proudly announce the extension of our partnership – a collaboration that has been mutually successful for the past 23 years and is now set to continue to the beginning of 2034.

“I also extend my sincere thanks to the team at Avolta, whose collective efforts paved the way for a significant contract extension at one of the key airports in which we operate in Southern Europe, and which is so important to Mediterranean tourism.

“As we journey towards our Destination 2027 strategy, we continue to provide travellers with premium experiences and exceptional services, based on a deep understanding of our stakeholders’ needs and market trends.

“We are committed to reshaping the travel experience through innovative solutions and loyal partnerships, ultimately transforming airports into destinations that travellers are happy to spend time in.”

Athens International Airport Chief Development Officer George Eleftherakos said: “We are excited to expand our long-lasting relationship with Avolta, acclaimed operators of the largest retail concession at the Athens International Airport.

“Working together for ten more years with a global leader in travel experience like Avolta, is definitely a step towards accomplishing our common goal for providing the best that Greece has to offer and a truly unforgettable Athenian airport experience to millions of travellers passing through our airport.”

In 2023, the airport connected travellers from over 155 destinations in 55 countries, travelling on more than 65 airlines. Passenger traffic reached 28.17 million, exceeding the 2022 level by +24% and, notably, ranking +10.2% over pre-pandemic levels.

Athens International Airport’s commercial offering has undergone an extensive transformation during the last three years. This has been driven through the introduction of large number of top Greek High Street and leading international concepts in its terminals. ✈