GERMANY. Lagardère Travel Retail has won a major tender for the books and press, souvenirs and convenience master concession at Düsseldorf Airport. The first of 11 stores under the contract will open in the first quarter of 2026.
The travel retailer said its planned concepts “will combine international experience and regional expertise for appreciative, authentic and emotional shopping experiences, each tailored to the individual location”.
Anchoring the retail offer will be seven Relay travel essentials stores featuring snacks, reading material and travel gadgets. Lagardère Travel Retail said these stores will be in cooperation with Hollman, a local partner that brings local press and book selection expertise.
A new hybrid concept, Relay Marché Café, will also be unveiled. Developed by Lagardère subsidiary Marché, it will combine the established range with barista coffee specialties and fresh snacks.
A note from the retailer said: “The modern feel-good atmosphere of Relay Marché Café invites you to relax and enjoy your journey. At the same time, self-check-outs ensure convenience and efficiency – perfect for passengers with little time but high expectations.”
Two Discover Germany souvenir stores will also open. According to Lagardère Travel Retail, the stores will “combine the fascination of local culture with innovative shopping highlights. From regional products to personalised souvenirs and food tasting stations – Discover Germany stands for authenticity and a real sense of connection with the region.”
The 11-store offer will be rounded out by Affenbande, a children’s shop with a jungle design to attract families, which will be staffed by a “monkey crew”. On sale will be toy animals, other child-friendly gifts and books.
Lagardère Travel Retail CEO Jochen Halfmann said: “We are delighted that Düsseldorf Airport has placed its trust in our long-standing successful partnership and are proud to be able to bring world-leading retail and gastronomy concepts to Düsseldorf by winning the travel essential tender.
“Our common goal is to offer our guests an exceptional experience with local flavour at every touchpoint that perfectly meets their needs as travellers.
“The cooperation with Düsseldorf Airport is another strategic milestone for us as part of our national growth plan and we are excited to reach this milestone together with Düsseldorf Airport through continuous commitment to innovation and customer focus.
“Our ambition is to make travel more enjoyable – with inspiration, regional flair and a first-class offering. With our new stores at Düsseldorf Airport, we are doing exactly that.”
Düsseldorf Airport CEO Lars Redeligx commented: “Düsseldorf Airport is the best place for Lagardère to implement innovative concepts in partnership. Here we have the expertise on site to target the specific needs of passengers and visitors. We are always open to new and exciting ideas that inspire passengers.
“The new stores are a further step on our way to becoming one of the best airports in the category up to 30 million passengers as an excellent, exemplary sustainable and regionally rooted airport.”
With these additions Lagardère will eventually operate 21 locations at Düsseldorf Airport. Already trading are four tech2go stores and six Marché food service concepts including White Monkey, Palavrion and Marché Restaurant.
Lagardère Travel Retail said the concepts will strengthen its status as a leading partner for travel retail and gastronomy.
“The new concepts are tailored to the needs of the airport’s diverse target groups and offer a unique and memorable experience,” the retailer commented. “With a total of 21 stores, Lagardère Travel Retail is not only well positioned, but also strategically located.
“Airside, the company covers all departure areas, while landside the concepts are specifically tailored to the needs in the arrivals, departures and mall areas. The stores not only demonstrate variety, but also offer exclusive services that are unique to the Düsseldorf location: A humidor, lottery pick-up point and post office/DHL counter complement the shopping experience and make it extra practical and well-rounded.” ✈
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