Dubai Duty Free records 12% sales rise

Emily Pacey

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Arrivals and the beauty category helped drive sales at Dubai Duty Free in the first quarter of 2006

Dubai Duty Free has posted sales of Dh571m ($159m) in the first quarter of 2006, an increase of 12% on the same period last year.

The fragrances and cosmetics category performed best, with sales growing by 28% to reach Dh94m ($26m), while sales at the arrivals store rose by 25% to Dh49m ($14m).

Renovations and improvements to the shopping area of Dubai airport over the past few weeks also helped to boost sales, according to the retailer. Two new stores opened, one selling gadgets and the other household goods including soft furnishings and home appliances. The latter is the first store of its type at the airport. In addition, the Precious Stones shop was renovated.
 
Dubai Duty Free managing director Colm McLoughlin said: "We have had a busy first few months of the year and are pleased to see that our sales reflect that.  We have undertaken a series of renovations in the past few weeks and have more planned in the coming months all of which will improve the retail offer further."
 
The retailer is planning on revamping its electronics shop, which accounts for around 9% of sales, to include a sound and vision and games area, a camcorder area and a music section.
 
When Dubai airport's second concourse opens in 2007, the retail area will increase from 7,000sq m (75,250sq ft) to 17,000sq m (182,750sq ft).