Malta International Airport recently signed a new concession agreement with Dufry, the world’s leading travel retailer, for the operation of the terminal’s duty free store on Level 1 covering the period between January 2019 and December 2026.

The signing of this agreement set in motion works in preparation for the embellishment and extension of the area which hosts the duty free store, with the aim of upgrading travellers’ shopping experience and giving them an authentic taste of Malta.

The reconceived main departures store, whose design will draw inspiration from typical Maltese colours and textures and incorporate some of the most recognisable elements from local culture to create a sense of place, will occupy around 1,400 square metres.

“In recent years, we have been putting more effort in transforming the airport journey into an experience that delights travellers and gives guests a good first and last impression of our islands. We are confident that a revamped duty free store having a strong Maltese identity will continue to enhance the passenger experience,” said Malta International Airport CEO Alan Borg.

Pedro Castro, Division CEO Southern Europe & Africa, Dufry added “We are delighted to have signed this agreement and to have the opportunity to continue working with this great airport partner. We thank them for their confidence in Dufry to be part of the airport’s development. We are positive that our joint collaboration and planning will offer passengers a happy and memorable experience when travelling through Malta International Airport.”

The reconceived store will incorporate sections, such as the fragrance aisles, the tobacco and spirits area, and the souvenir shop, with which travellers have become familiar. However, these sections will be introducing new concepts, such as a Beauty Studio where passengers can try on some of the most iconic make-up brands and a Tasting Bar where guests can have a sip of the store’s featured products.

An important addition to the duty free store will be the Spirit of Malta shop, a showcase of the finest local products and delicacies, which are an ideal take-home gift for travellers wanting a lingering taste of the islands after their holiday.

Dufry, which is a Swiss-based company, operates in around 2,200 duty-free and duty-paid shops in airports, cruise lines, seaports, railway stations and central tourist areas.