Lagardère Travel Retail has entrenched a long-standing partnership with Belfast Airport with the opening of a new Aelia walkthrough duty free store, which will carry an expanded mix of global and local beauty brands.

A broadened mix of global and local brands will greet passengers at Belfast International Airport as Lagardère Travel Retail UK & Ireland this week transitions in a new Aelia Duty Free walkthrough store.

As reported, the Paris-headquartered travel retailer recently defended its presence in a competitive tender to run retail and F&B concessions under its three business lines (Duty Free, F&B and Travel Essentials) at the Northern Ireland airport across more than 1,600sq m of commercial space.

Travelling shoppers will soon discover the likes of Jo Malone, Rituals and Charlotte Tilbury on shelves as part of a strengthened partnership between the airport and travel retailer.

Lagardère Travel Retail’s souvenir and gifting concept ‘Discover Belfast’ has been incorporated into the Aelia Duty Free estate, offering an historic nod to the Titanic – built in the Harland and Wolff Shipyard in Northern Ireland’s capital – and Northern Irish brands via partnerships with local firms such as McConnell’s Irish Whisky, Born & Bred and Boatyard Distillery.

White Star Coffee Co., a new locally inspired dining concept, will also make an appearance.

Peter Newbould, CEO of Lagardère Travel Retail UK & Ireland, commented: “Our vision is to reimagine the airport journey by blending global brands with authentic local experiences. With this transition, we’re not just enhancing retail – we’re creating moments of discovery and inspiration for every traveller passing through Belfast.”

Dan Owens, CEO of Belfast International Airport, added: “This next phase of our redevelopment continues to elevate the passenger experience at Belfast International Airport. The new retail and dining offer not only brings iconic names to our terminal but also proudly showcases the best of Northern Ireland to the world.”

Vinci Airports owned Belfast International recorded its busiest year on record in 2024, welcoming 6.8 million passengers.