WHSmith is excited about its future prospects in South America.

WHSmith International has inaugurated a slew of airport stores at RIOgaleão Tom Jobim International Airport – the news and convenience retailer’s first entry into South America.

As reported, WHSmith opened the first of seven units located across the airport’s international and domestic departures and main entrance areas in September having agreed a deal with Duty Free Americas (DFA) earlier this year.

Commenting on the openings, WHSmith International Managing Director Phil McNally said: “We have worked in close collaboration with the team at RIOgaleão Airport to design stores and a customer offering that we jointly believe will please all passengers.

“The stores at RIOgaleão also mark the beginning of the WHSmith and Duty Free Americas joint venture partnership in the region and we are delighted to be working together and look forward to growing our partnership in the South American market.”

LATEST STORE DESIGN

Both parties have been focused on developing the retail proposition, which offers passengers a range of books, magazines, travel accessories, souvenirs, confectionery and drinks.

The stores benefit from WHSmith’s latest design fascias to create a contemporary flavour underpinned by local elements. According to RIOgaleão Airport the result aligns with its commercial strategy.

Leon Falic, President for DFA added: “We are very excited about this first opening as it marks the beginning of a fruitful and prosperous relationship between WHSmith, RIOgaleão and DFA teams. With the opening of these seven specialist convenience stores, together we will offer the Brazilian market a new concept and customer experience that will add appeal and value for airport operators.”