CHINA. Wangfujing Duty Free has officially launched its first store in Beijing Capital International Airport Terminal 2, following its successful concession bid in December (click here to read the tender results).
The store began operations today (11 February), offering travellers a range of duty-free products, including fragrances, cosmetics, spirits, food, travel accessories and electronics.
The opening ceremony was attended by Wangfujing Group General Manager and Vice Chairman Shang Xiping; Wangfujing Duty Free General Manager Hu Yong; Beijing Tourism Group Chief Accountant Sun Fuqing; Beijing Capital International Airport Company Chief Financial Officer Li Zhiyong; and Beijing Capital International Airport Company Board Secretary and General Manager of Commercial Development Li Bo.
Wangfujing Duty Free said the opening marks its first foray into a major international air hub in China – a significant milestone in its duty-free expansion plan.
The company noted, “It holds far-reaching strategic importance for elevating global brand presence, tapping into the high-end consumer market, and advancing the integrated development of commerce, culture and tourism.”
Located in the international departure and arrival restricted zone of T2, the new store offers a comprehensive duty-free experience with diverse product categories, personalised services and innovative retail concepts.
Wangfujing Duty Free said passengers can expect a broader brand roster, a more refined retail environment and enhanced services to be rolled out in phases.
As a key gateway for global duty-free spending, airport retail captures cross-border traffic while projecting national consumption vitality and cultural appeal.
Since securing its duty-free license in 2020, Wangfujing Duty Free has steadily expanded its retail scenarios, and its Beijing Capital International debut now completes an “integrated, multi-tiered network, providing a solid anchor for long-term growth”.
Riding the China-chic wave, the store features domestic cultural icons and popular products, such as Panda-themed toys and homegrown tech brands, blending traditional Chinese heritage with current shopping trends.
The retailer emphasised that this helps quality domestic names go global, “turning the national gateway into a showcase for Chinese creativity and brand strength”.
Ahead of Chinese New Year, the opening ceremony included dance performances, calligraphy blessings and robots offering festive greetings – a gesture Wangfujing Duty Free said underscores its commitment to innovation and the exploration of AI-powered formats and ecosystems.
The store is also offering Chinese New Year promotions, including limited discounts, spend-and-save deals and exclusive member perks. A multilingual service team provides duty-free policy consultation, seamless checkout and after-sales support.
Wangfujing Duty Free said: “The opening at Capital Airport T2 represents a major synergy between Wangfujing Group, Beijing Tourism Group and Capital Airport Holdings. This also represents a concrete step by the three parties in support of the nation’s call to expand domestic demand and upgrade consumption.
“Through deeper coordination, we will optimise operations, expand product offerings and elevate the consumer experience – ultimately unlocking the full potential of airport consumption.” ✈
