AUSTRALIA. Melbourne Airport today welcomed the introduction of UK news and books retailer WHSmith in its new international terminal.
The retailer will open a book store and a news agency in the expanded terminal, offering a wide range of newspapers, books, magazines, confectionery and drinks for travellers.
Melbourne Airport CEO Chris Woodruff said the travel retailer’s decision to open its first venture at an Australian airport in Melbourne showed confidence in the strength of Victoria’s economy.
“Melbourne Airport continues to experience strong international passenger growth, up +14.3% last month over the same period last year,” Woodruff said.
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WHSmith’s decision to open its first Australian airport store in Melbourne shows confidence in the strength of Victoria’s economy, says Melbourne Airport CEO Chris Woodruff |
“Our A$330 million international terminal expansion will transform the experience of our increasing number of passengers and deliver the airport its first purpose built retail space in 40 years.
“With more than 5,000sq m of additional space in the new retail precinct and passenger lounge, in conjunction with a major redevelopment of existing facilities, we are creating a completely new experience in airport shopping,” he said.
Stage one of the international terminal expansion will see 11 new retail offerings and food & beverage outlets open.
The expansion will cater to a growing international passenger market that is projected to increase to up to 12 million international passengers per year by 2027.
WHSmith Travel Chief Operating Officer Simon Smith added: “We are delighted to be opening our first Australian store in Melbourne Airport and look forward to bringing WHSmith’s expertise to Australian customers.”
About WHSmith
WHSmith currently operates over 1,000 stores in the UK and a number of other international locations, including Copenhagen, Stockholm Arlanda and Delhi airports. These comprise over 565 High Street stores and 490 retail units in airports, railway stations, hospitals, workplaces and motorway service areas.
WHSmith sells a wide range of newspapers, magazines, stationery, books and confectionery products, with WHSmith Travel tailoring its offer to meet the needs of people on the move.
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