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Security shift aids retailers at ManilaSecurity shift aids retailers at Manila
Gavin Lipsith
16-Aug-2006
Ninoy Aquino airport's recent decision to shift final security checks from the gates to before the retail area has minimised losses for the facility's retailers
Retailers at Manila Ninoy Aquino airport have been spared from the worst effects of new security measures following the airport's decision to move the final security check for passengers from gates to in front of retail outlets. The move means that passengers can purchase duty-free without the worry that goods may be confiscated before boarding.DFNI Asia understands the move, which had been planned for several months and is not a response to the foiled terror plot in London, was intended to cut down on security costs as well as reducing crowding at gate areas. But retailers claim that the change has had an added benefit in light of new security measures in place since last week.
Landmark Duty Free CEO Chim Esteban explained that although the airport's policy had returned to normal, with the exception of US- and UK-bound passengers, the confusion over rules was biggest problem facing the business. "The change in security measures means that passengers are no longer worried about the inconvenience of having goods confiscated," said Esteban. "Our stores have been moved to a temporary location while the changes are finalised, and at first we objected, but in hindsight I think it has helped the business during this problem."
Esteban added that sales had been affected by passenger confusion more than by restrictions on UK and US passengers, which are not particularly important to Manila airport. He anticipated that there would be few permanent changes to security measures as "the Philippines already has the closest thing to US airport screening measures in Asia".
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