Channel Tunnel operator Eurotunnel (part of Getlink Group) will issue a request for qualifications (RFQ) for the management of the duty free business at its French terminal in Coquelles.

The tender, which concerns duty free spaces only* within the Charles Dickens passenger terminal building and at the freight terminal serving HGV drivers, is set to launch at the end of September before a request for proposals opens in October for qualifying parties.

The closing date for the submission of proposals is expected by the beginning of January 2024, says Eurotunnel, ahead of the commencement of the contract in late April.

Deborah Merrens, Chief Commercial Officer, Eurotunnel said: “The reintroduction of duty free services for passengers travelling to the UK has created a substantial opportunity to redesign engagement with passengers and drive sales growth.

“It is a great opportunity to provide a whole new customer experience through our premises. We are very excited for the future of the business and are looking for a duty-free operator to work with us to realise this opportunity.”

Eurotunnel runs freight and passenger services (cars and coaches) under its LeShuttle fascia between Folkestone in the UK and Calais in France under a concession until 2086.

In 2022, LeShuttle carried more than eight million passengers.

Those wishing to obtain further information or to express interest in the duty free tender should contact the following at LeShuttle: [email protected]

*Does not apply to the UK terminal operations at Folkestone.