Malta airport records fastest retail growth since EU accession

Gavin Lipsith

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The airport achieved a 20% increase in retail sales last year, driven by the refurbishment of Nuance’s outlets and the introduction of its SWIFT concept

Malta International airport has announced that retail sales grew by 20% last year, the biggest rise since the country joined the European Union in 2004. The airport attributed the increase to a significant rise in passenger numbers—up 10.4% to 2.97m—as well as the improved performance of retail outlets.

Over the past year The Nuance Group has refurbished its three outlets at the airport—including its 425sq m (4,573sq ft) main departures outlet—and introduced its new SWIFT shopping concept, designed to make shopping faster and easier for frequent travellers.

The airport has also finalised plans to further increase its departures hall retail offer this year. The company aims to open 1,200sq m (12,912sq ft) of additional floor space devoted to additional retail area and a business lounge in the airport’s Schengen area. Nuance will open a 670sq m (7,209sq ft) store in the area, which is due to be completed by December. The walk-through store will offer liquor, tobacco, beauty products, confectionery and toys.

The airport said: “Since the commencement of their activity in Malta, Nuance has developed a very strong retail operation and has also contributed significantly to the airport's results.”

Nuance has offered Malta International a minimum guarantee of €25.5m ($39.9m) for the term of its contract at the airport, which runs until 2014.