Przemyslaw Lesniak, CEO of Lagardère Travel Retail in Pacific says the company has enjoyed a ‘strong and successful’ partnership with Christchurch Airport since 2011.

As reported, it also renewed its five-year concession covering the operation of three Relay stores and two specialist shops including Sunglass Hut and tech2go last year.

He added: “It’s fantastic to reach this significant milestone and have the opportunity to build on our strong and trusting partnership. The alignment of the process between our vision for an innovative and unique retail experience, enhanced by the airport’s innovation and ‘out of the box’ thinking will ensure a memorable experience for the travellers in the gateway to the South Island of New Zealand.

“This win consolidates our position as the market leading travel retailer operator in New Zealand.”

The new eight-year concession includes Aelia Duty Are arrivals and departures shops.

KEY PILLARS

Driven by the Four Key Pillars of Aelia Duty Free (The Art of the Gift, Facilitation, Care and Here and Nowhere else),  the store will showcase a strong element of local sense of place through design elements.

The Relay news and travel essentials solution, is one of the largest and most recognised GTR brands.. Boasting more than 1,200 stores in 22 countries, Relay provides an extensive travel essentials product offer.

TikiTour, the group’s New Zealand destination concept will bring a New Zealand experience to Christchurch Airport, while So Chocolate will bring a sweet touch to the mix. The store will also showcase the Whittaker’s brand.

Finally, a natural fibre store will showcase the best of wool, leather and active leisure wear.

Paul Ryan, Chief Strategy & Development Officer in Pacific Region for Lagardère Travel Retail says the company is thrilled with the concession award.

“It reinforces our strategic plan to operate three business units — Duty Free, Travel Essentials and Food Service — in one location. Every detail has been well considered and tailored for the passengers travelling through the unique Christchurch Airport.

Lagardère Travel Retail operates a Sungalss Hut store among other outlets in Christhurch.

FRESH INNOVATION

“We’re looking forward to bringing fresh innovation, interactive experiences and high-quality brand activations to our new concessions to enhance the customer journey.”

Christchurch Airport Chief Aeronautical and Commercial Officer Justin Watson says the airport is excited to take the relationship to the next level.

“We have strong aspirations from an experiential and digital perspective and Lagardère stood out as the right partner to go on a journey with. As the international gateway to the South Island, we are uniquely placed to offer an experience that showcases the best of our place.”