The global duty-free and travel retail market is experiencing explosive growth, driven by factors like increased travel, rising disposable incomes, and evolving consumer preferences. This report explores the market’s trajectory, key trends, and opportunities for industry success.
The cdf Sanya International Duty Free Shopping Complex, a flagship venture of China Duty Free Group (CDFG), is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Since its opening in 2009, the complex has become a major driver of tourism in Hainan, China, welcoming over 70 million visitors and setting new standards in the duty-free industry. With its unique policy advantages, expansion into a world-class shopping destination, and commitment to social responsibility, the complex is poised for continued success in the years to come.
Switzerland-based travel retail and dining giant Avolta has returned to the top of the global travel retail market, reclaiming the number one spot based on 2023 turnover. This comes according to The Moodie Davitt Report, a leading source of business intelligence in the travel retail sector. Avolta’s resurgence displaces China Duty Free Group, which held the top position for the past three years. Avolta also dominates the newly compiled travel food and beverage (F&B) ranking, highlighting the company’s significant influence across both shopping and dining sectors in the travel industry.
China has loosened restrictions on duty-free shopping, allowing twelve urban stores to sell to international travelers, including Chinese citizens. However, the new regulations require shoppers to collect their purchases at departure points and export them immediately, eliminating home delivery or collection upon return.
Hong Kong and Macau are enticing Chinese tourists with increased duty-free shopping allowances, hoping to revive their tourism sectors and boost spending in the region. This strategic move aims to attract more visitors and stimulate economic growth, offering significant benefits to both travelers and local businesses.
The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is launching the ‘Summer Chill Hong Kong’ campaign to capitalize on the recent increase in duty-free allowance for Mainland residents visiting Hong Kong. The campaign features the ‘Summer Triple Rewards’ promotion offering 500,000 sets of rewards to overnight visitors, alongside a host of summer events and city-wide decorations.
Starting July 1st, Chinese tourists will enjoy a significant increase in their duty-free shopping allowance in Hong Kong and Macau, aiming to revitalize the economies of both cities following the Covid-19 pandemic. The new policy is projected to generate substantial revenue for the region, particularly for Hong Kong, which has been struggling with a decline in tourism and political instability.
Norwegian Air Shuttle, in collaboration with gateretail, is introducing a preorder service for duty free products on select flights from Oslo. Passengers can now order alcohol, tobacco, perfumes, cosmetics, sweets, and more, and have them delivered directly to their seats. This service aims to enhance passenger experiences by offering a convenient and time-saving option.
A travel influencer has revealed a brilliant trick to get extra hand luggage on budget flights for just £1.55, without paying expensive baggage fees. She simply purchased a cheap water bottle and a 10p carrier bag from duty free, and filled the bag with her additional items. This hack only works for hand luggage, as checked luggage is weighed and placed in the hold before you reach duty free.
