INDIA. GMR Aero has described its recent takeover of Delhi Duty Free as a “pivotal opportunity to elevate the scale, efficiency and innovation potential of GMR Airport’s non-aeronautical business”.
As revealed by The Moodie Davitt Report, GMR Aero (the brand name of GMR Airports Limited) took over the operation at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi on 28 July from the former joint venture between Delhi International Airport Limited, ARI subsidiary Yalorvin Limited and GMR Airports Limited.
GMR Group Business Chairman – Airports GBS Raju commented, “We are delighted to welcome Delhi Duty Free business into the GMR Aero family.
“This will certainly strengthen our leadership in airport retail and reflects our vision to transform the passenger experience. From luxury offerings to innovative technology, we are committed to reshaping the duty-free business in India.”
GMR Aero said the development marks a milestone for the company, positioning it as the largest national player in India’s duty-free retail business.
Delhi Duty Free, India’s largest airport-based duty-free retail operation, complements GMR AERO’s existing duty-free operations at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (which it will take over fully in its Q2 FY26); Manohar International Airport, Goa; and Kannur International Airport, Kerala.
GMR Airports Limited President & CEO – Commercial & Growth Rajesh Arora said, “Delhi Duty Free becoming part of GMR Airport’s Adjacency businesses marks a defining moment in our journey. This is more than just commercial integration; it is a convergence of talent, vision and capabilities.
“This makes us the country’s and South Asia’s largest duty-free operator and reinforces our commitment to elevating airport retail and non-aeronautical services.”
GMR Airports Limited CEO – Group Duty Free Business Ashish Chopra commented, “This milestone reflects GMR Airport’s evolving vision – from traditional retail to dynamic travel commerce.
“We are committed to delivering a seamless experience that blends global excellence with local charm, powered by digital transformation and human expertise. With Delhi Duty Free now part of GMR Aero’s portfolio, we are poised to define the next chapter of airport retail in India.”
GMR said the Delhi Duty Free takeover aligns with the group’s long-term strategy to enhance passenger engagement, strengthen its commercial ecosystem and create scalable retail models that serve both international travellers and global retail partners.
The Delhi Duty Free business, known for its wide portfolio of luxury, lifestyle and speciality products, will continue to operate under the GMR Aero’s vision of delivering superior customer experience and operational excellence, the company said. ✈
About GMR Airports Limited (formerly GMR Airports Infrastructure Limited)
GMR Airports Limited (GAL) is a leading global airport platform company with over two decades of experience in designing, constructing and operating world-class sustainable airports. Under the brand name GMR Aero, it offers pioneering aviation solutions in retail, aero services and real estate. Groupe ADP joined the journey in 2020 as a strategic partner and is now a co-promoter in GAL.
As a platform business, GAL also provides a range of related services including duty-free and other retail, F&B, cargo, car parking, O&M and PMC services.
As the largest private airport operator in Asia and the second-largest globally, GAL served over 120 million passengers in FY25.
GMR Airport Land Development is developing vibrant airport cities around Delhi, Hyderabad and Goa airports, with GMR Aerocity Delhi and GMR Aerocity Hyderabad emerging as landmark business and leisure districts.
