KLM and Kappe poised to open Schiphol megastore

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The two operators are to occupy a new 1,000sq m outlet in Schiphol's lounge one next month

A partnership between Kappé and KLM Tax Free Services will open Amsterdam Schiphol airport's biggest retail unit on March 2, featuring 1,000sq m (10,760sq ft) of space for fragrances, cosmetics, liquor and tobacco. The store is located in the newly designed lounge one.

lounge 1, also known as the Schengen lounge, is being renovated and expanded to 14,500sq m (156,020sq ft). The concept behind the new design is to separate the retail area into three buying behaviour areas called Run, Fun and Surprise. The new combination store is located in the 'Run' area so travellers can easily buy core items first.

Kappé chairman Jacques Parson said: "The opening of this megastore is a great moment. This year Kappé celebrates its 55th anniversary and it is fantastic to mark that occasion with such an impressive new shop at Schiphol. It is the biggest shop at the airport that will be matched with the best assortment and retail service standards. It also represents the growth achieved by the airport and how we have grown in partnership together."

The two companies have cooperated on similar ventures in the past, and worked together seven years ago to open a combination store at lounge three, also known as the West lounge.