Luxury confectioners Godiva have galvanized their presence in the Middle East by opening a brand new counter concept at Hamad International Airport (HIA), in Doha, Qatar.

 

Raising the bar in confectionery retailing, Godiva invites travellers to discover the exclusive premium chocolate area, named ‘Chocology’, which includes exclusive products and an element of theatre through the presence of round-the-clock professional chocolatiers.

 

Comprising five sections, the Godiva counter features a fresh ‘made in-store’ area offering a selection of uniquely decorated seasonal treats dipped in chocolate and fine delicate Belgian biscuits presented in exclusive tin gift boxes.

 

The principal chocolate case hosts a wide range of exquisite chocolates and truffles, including three exclusive chocolate creations specially prepared for Chocology. Travellers looking for refreshment in the airport will also find the world-renowned Godiva Chocolixir collection in six indulgent varieties, offered as hot or cold beverages.

 

For a special gift to take home, there is the luxurious Godiva gifting section. Exclusive gift boxes, designed in an eye-catching peacock blue colour, make the perfect souvenir of a visit to Qatar. Those who find it difficult to choose can purchase a selection of the best, in the form of a stunning chocolate hamper.

 

Sales outstrip expectations

Ramon Iglesias, Regional Director EMEA, comments, “We have seen positive results since the opening of our new chocolate counter, with sales outperforming all expectations in the first few weeks. Travellers are attracted by the theatre, excitement and choice that the counter provides, creating a truly engaging and innovative experience that they will not forget.

 

“The addition of a trained chocolatier ensures that travellers are receiving the freshest, handmade chocolates available. Both the exclusivity of the products on offer and the element of watching the fine art of chocolate making, results in us providing a truly unique and engaging offering.”

 

In addition to the new chocolate counter, Godiva is also present in all of the confectionery areas situated in HIA, including the Main Shop, Express Shops and Marmalade Market, one of Qatar Duty Free’s own concept stores.

 

Iglesias adds, “Having a presence in all the confectionery areas at HIA is evidence that Qatar Duty Free recognizes Godiva as a strong, important, premium brand, which fits perfectly with its new airport concept of creating a world-class experience.”

 

Says Leen Baeten, Senior Manager Marketing & Business Development, “We believe that Godiva’s presence at the airport, particularly the unique chocolate counter, is an important element of this world class experience, raising the bar and setting new standards in chocolate retailing at airports. We hope that this concept will act as a showcase for what Godiva is capable of, executed in a way that is exclusive and customized to this key location.

 

“By working closely with our customers, together we will continue to define and strengthen the premium confectionery segment. We are convinced this new Godiva concept can be easily adapted to various environments. As part of our growth strategy within travel retail, we are looking forward to adding new retail formats and experiences to the list.”