NEW ZEALAND. Wellington Airport, gateway to the nation’s capital city, has awarded its new duty-free contract to LagardèreAWPL following an open tender.
LagardèreAWPL will operate duty-free departures and arrivals shops and – through an extended partnership with the airport – new technology, gifting, eyewear and beauty concept stores. It will also transform its existing Relay travel essentials store.
The duty-free stores are expected to transition in early 2025 with the remaining sites to follow through the rest of the year.
The incumbent is Lotte Duty Free, which chose not to bid amid a review of its offshore businesses, having operated at the airport since 2009 (initially as JR/Duty Free, acquired at the end of 2018).
Wellington Airport Chief Executive Matt Clarke commented: “When it came to choosing a new duty-free provider, we were impressed with the bold vision of Lagardère for the new shops and a strong local focus which matches our ethos.”
The changes form part of an ambitious NZ$20 million (US$11.6 million) upgrade of Wellington Airport’s retail and hospitality sites next year.
A two-storey bar and café will be built in the centre of the terminal above the current Blue Lady outlet, offering expansive views across the runway and Lyall Bay. The operation is currently out to tender.
LagardèreAWPL CEO Costa Kouros said: “We are thrilled to be extending our partnership with Wellington Airport. A partnership that was first formed almost 15 years ago. I thank Matt Clarke, Richard Dalby [GM Commercial], Astra Davidson-Powell [Manager Retail and Advertising] and the Board of Wellington Airport for their trust and belief.
“Through our extensive experience in delivering world-class duty-free and specialty retail operations with a true sense of place, we look forward to exceeding the expectations of visitors and locals travelling through New Zealand’s capital city.
“The new stores will showcase some of our exciting concepts that we feel are most relevant to this wonderful airport. On display will be our commitment to sustainability, supporting our people and creating magical moments for everyone, every day.”
The food & beverage developments will offer a combined floor area of 900sq m and add an additional 130 seats to the dining precinct.
Clarke said the initiatives will deliver exciting new experiences for shoppers and travellers. “This will make Wellington Airport an even better place to eat, drink, shop and explore,” he stated. “You can expect to see a fresh look and range of products rolled out from early next year.
“The new café and bar will have fantastic views across the airport and be a destination in its own right.” ✈ 
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