Sofia expects record duty-free sales

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Bulgaria's Sofia Airport is expecting a 5% increase in duty-free revenue in 2003 following the airport's highest ever duty-free sales last year, duty-free director Galina Trolieva has told DFNI

She said 2000's refurbishment of Sofia airport's terminals had a huge impact on sales, while plans for a new terminal in 2005 will further increase the airport's facilities.

Duty-free sales reached ?6.2m in 2002, the highest that the airport has seen. The figure was described as a 'great achievement' by Trolieva, in the light of trading difficulties due to changes in excise law and the subsequent additional legal requirement. She added that Bulgaria remains largely unaffected by global economic troubles, the country's economy strengthening as it becomes more aligned with Western Europe and continues preparations to accede to the EU.

The most profitable sectors for Sofia's duty-free business were liquor, tobacco products, perfumery and cosmetics. Other product categories, such as gifts, apparel, food, confectionery and accessories, which have been added since the redevelopment of the airport's duty-free shops in 2000, have been expanded. "The refurbishment of the termini in 2000  had a significant impact on all areas," Trolieva commented. "Service levels at all stages of the passenger experience have been improved beyond recognition. Additionally, new commercial operations were introduced both in retailing and catering and have contributed both to the financial success of the airport and the expertise that our passengers now enjoy when using Sofia Airport."

A new terminal will open at Sofia in 2005, and all product areas are expected to be developed further in the new retail space. "The new terminal will see a further increase in the provision of terminal passenger services that will provide a customer service experience that will be among the best in Europe," said Trolieva. "The commercial areas of the new terminal have been considered and incorporated at every stage of the design process, contributing to the overall image of the building as well as providing the type and size of services in strategic locations that will maximise their revenue-generating potential.  This is in contrast to the existing termini, where commercial areas are squeezed in and are not necessarily well-located in order to meet the requirements of passengers and subsequently maximise revenue potential for the operator and the airport."

Sofia Airport Authority will seek a strategic partner to develop and operate the duty-free facility at the new terminal, Trolieva concluded.