14.08.2006
New concessionaire and new tax-free store

On 1 March 2007, Gebr. Heinemann KG takes over the concession of the tax-free stores at Copenhagen Airport. A completely new version of the large, central tax-free store is scheduled for next summer.

The tax-free stores at Copenhagen Airport will get a new concessionaire next year. On 1 March 2007, Gebr. Heinemann KG takes over the airport’s large, central tax-free store and four small satellite stores and an arrival shop after The Nuance Group, the concessionaire since 1995.   Copenhagen Airports A/S has signed a six-year contract with Gebr. Heinemann KG, one of the largest tax-free operators worldwide with 180 stores in 30 international airports and with good knowledge of the Scandinavian market.   "We are very pleased with Copenhagen Airports A/S’s decision. Copenhagen Airport is a challenging airport close to our headquarters. We look forward to

working together with a professional team in Copenhagen Airport", says Gunnar Heinemann, Gebr. Heinemann KG.

The best bid

In competition with other international tax-free operators, Gebr. Heinemann KG submitted the overall most attractive bid for the concession. In addition to the financial aspects, Copenhagen Airport also looked at the quality of the various proposals in terms of shop design, product range, service concepts, etc.

"The tax-free stores are a very substantial part of our passengers’ experience at the airport. We look forward to working with Gebr. Heinemann KG, who is the right operator to carry through the comprehensive refurbishment and expansion we are looking for," said Henrik Busch, Vice President, Copenhagen Airports A/S.

A completely new store

In connection with the establishment of a new central security checkpoint next year to create a better passenger service, it has been decided to convert the airport’s large tax-free store into a so-called ”walk through shop”. This means that, after security check, passengers will walk directly into the large, new tax-free store, where it is easy for them to do the shopping many passengers consider an integral part of their travel experience.

"It is decisive for us that the passengers have a good experience in connection with the new central security checkpoint. But it is equally important that they are presented to an attractive shopping environment with exiting shopping opportunities while at the same time the possibilities for orientation is improved", emphasize Henrik Busch, Copenhagen Airports A/S.

The central store will be ready in summer 2007, and with its about 2,900 square metres it is going to be among the largest of its kind in the world. The four satellite stores and the arrival shop will also be modernised and refurbished.

“The changes in the tax-free area play a central role in our efforts to secure and expand Copenhagen Airport’s leading international position. We look forward to working on the project together with Gebr. Heinemann KG,” said Henrik Busch.