London Luton Airport Secures Lagardère Travel Retail in New 10-Year Duty-Free Deal
London Luton Airport has officially confirmed a significant partnership with Lagardère Travel Retail. This collaboration, which has extended over two decades, will continue under a new contract lasting ten years. The agreement is set to commence on 1 November 2026.
Expansion of Duty-Free Retail Space
As part of this new deal, Lagardère Travel Retail will enhance the airport’s duty-free offerings. The retail space will increase from 2,530 square meters to 3,340 square meters, marking a substantial expansion. Notably, the main duty-free store in departures will grow by over 40%, reaching a size of 2,680 square meters.
New Shopping Experience
The updated duty-free stores will operate under the Aelia Duty Free brand. Travelers can expect a comprehensive redesign intended to create a more immersive shopping experience. This redesign aligns with the airport’s vision to offer unexpected and enjoyable retail options.
- Expanded main duty-free store: 2,680 sq m
- Additional secondary duty-free store in departures
- Arrival duty-free store included
A notable feature of the redesign will be a new Bottega Prosecco bar, specifically tailored for the airport setting. This addition aims to enhance dwell time for passengers, encouraging them to enjoy shopping and relaxation.
Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
Lagardère Travel Retail will showcase various international brands, highlighting British names such as Fortnum & Mason, Creed, Charlotte Tilbury, and Cadbury. The stores will include dedicated sections for sustainable products, reflecting a growing trend towards environmentally conscious retail.
Mark Jennings, Head of Retail and Surface Access at London Luton Airport, emphasized the collaboration’s success. He noted that passenger numbers have nearly doubled over the last 20 years, with growth from approximately 9 million to nearly 18 million this year. Jennings praised Lagardère for enhancing customer choice and providing exceptional service.
Looking to the Future
Peter Newbould, CEO of Lagardère Travel Retail UK & Ireland, expressed pride in the award of the new contract. He noted the team’s dedication to improving the duty-free experience and thanked London Luton Airport for their continued trust. This partnership aims to elevate the quality of retail to meet evolving customer needs.
