CTC-ARI Airports Ltd reports that it is 'extremely pleased' with the 6.000sq m of new retail facilities and the environment at the new Larnaka Zenon International Airport which was formally opened by the President of

Cyprus, Demetris Christofias on November 7 and operationally open to passengers (as already reported) on November 10.

CTC-ARI Airports now operates 5,000sq metres of airside retail space with a further combined 1,000sq m in arrivals and landside operations. The retail offering has already been merged together with the food and beverage making it more convenient for passengers to dine and shop in the same environment.

Danny Galvin General Manager CTC-ARI Airports Ltd commented ‘We are extremely pleased with the new facilities and environment we have created. It has completely changed the face of retailing in Larnaka Airport.’

The design of the retail areas has been integrated to complement the modern design of the airport building. The shop design features a central area where customers flow through to the main part of the retail facility where they can view both sides of the retail offer.

Luxury goods, watches and fragrance and cosmetics are on one side where liquor, tobacco, electronic, confectionery, toys and their CTN concept 'Xpress' are on the other. CTC-ARI and Cyprus Airports F&B Company have been collaborating on the design of the retail and food and beverage areas so that they can create a facility that both partners benefit from.

Many of the food outlets are located throughout the area, also the main bar concept has been placed at the end of the central walkway, this is integral in keeping passengers in the commercial areas to encourage penetration and browsing.

CTC-ARI adds that 'great emphasis' has been focused on niche retail concepts such as the award winning 'Uisge Beatha' (water of life) whisky concept, plus a new wine concept Kelari (wine cellar). These areas feature demonstrations offering tastings at special customised tasting bars. Additionally a new concept 'Kypriaka' (products from Cyprus) has been developed, highlighting traditional Cypriot merchandise from food, souvenirs and up market classic gifts that reflect the cultural arts and craft history of Cyprus.

Galvin commented: ‘The new terminal, with increased retail space, has given us the opportunity to include brands such as Cr?me de la Mer, Bobbi Brown, Kiehl's and MAC and we have a fantastic retail offer for our passengers. The facilities at the new airport are world class and we are very proud to be showcasing them.’

CTC-ARI reports that the very first customer was Mrs Eleni Pantelli who spent E.45.60 ($68.26) on fragrance. Commenting on the new facilities, Mrs Pentelli said: ‘I am amazed with the amount of new products available and the shops are so beautiful.’ She was presented with a basket of Kypriaka products by Retail and Marketing Head Martin Mullen and the sales assistant Mary Tornaritou who served her.

Mullen added: ‘We had a really smooth start to operations with no problems. Passengers are very happy with the new shops as they are a complete transformation in regard to the retail environment and product offering.’