New-look Liverpool airport opens doors for retailers

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The first phase of Liverpool John Lennon airport's new £32.5m ($46.5m) terminal building opened recently. The official launch is set for summer 2002 and retail negotiations are currently ongoing with a variety of shop locations still available, the airport's property manager, Peter Bailey, told TRW.

The new 25,000sq ft (2,323sq m) check in hall is approximately three times the size of the previous area. In addition 16 new tickets desks will be available for airlines, handling agents, tour operators and a Bureau de Change.  A new information desk has also been completed and will incorporate the latest user-friendly passenger information system.

The second phase is due to open in the Spring and comprises the airside retail and catering lounge. A number of known high street brands will join existing retailers such as anchor duty-free operator Alpha Retail, WHSmith, Alpha Catering, SSP (Scandinavian Service Partner) and car rental firms. The airport owners Peel Holdings, are in discussions with potential tenants such as Costa Coffee, Burger King and Avis.

Peel Holdings, property manager, Peter Bailey, commented: "We have received a number of enquiries about space available for retailers in the new terminal and are confident we will have a varied tenant mix, combining high street names with specialist independent stores. Space is available from 200sq ft [19sq m] upwards and in total the new terminal building will have 43,000sq ft [3,996sq m] of quality retail space."

Liverpool John Lennon airport is currently one of the fastest growing airports in Europe with 2.25m passengers using the airport last year, a 15% increase on the previous year.

Additional areas of the new terminal will be opened throughout the first half of 2002.