Schiphol Group – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – is strengthening its partnership with Lagardère Travel Retail. The cooperation, as of 1 May 2025, will involve the operation of more than 20 duty free stores, as part of a joint venture in which Lagardère Travel Retail has 70% of the shares and Schiphol 30%.
Schiphol is taking a significant step in the renewal of the retail offer at the airport and improving the experience for passengers. Earlier this year, Schiphol invited retail parties to compete for a 10-year strategic partnership for the categories of perfume & cosmetics, sunglasses, tobacco, liquor and chocolate. After an intensive selection process, Lagardère was chosen, and Schiphol and Lagardère were able to seal their cooperation agreement.
Schiphol’s duty free shopping offer beyond airport security control is planned to be fully redeveloped. “The expansion of the cooperation with Lagardère Travel Retail is a very important moment for Schiphol in the implementation of our new retail strategy,” said Arthur Reijnhart, Executive Director, Schiphol Commercial. “With our intensive investment program over the next few years, we aim to restore Schiphol’s magic and iconic status as a leading airport. With Lagardère Travel Retail, we have found a partner with whom we will transform our duty free stores into beautiful locations with a modern assortment, appealing prices and attractive appearance. The goal is to exceed the expectations of our passengers, and we are convinced that together with Lagardère Travel Retail we can achieve this.”
Dag Rasmussen, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Lagardère Travel Retail, commented: “This partnership will solidify Lagardère Travel Retail’s position as a major duty free operator in the European market. We are very pleased to have been selected by Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and looking forward to strengthening our long-term relationship. Together, we will aim to transform and elevate the retail experience.”
The current contract with Schiphol Airport Retail (SAR) expires on 30 April 2025 and Schiphol Commercial thanked Gebr. Heinemann for the successful cooperation over the past 10 years. Schiphol became the owner of airport retailer Kappé earlier this year. Combining the stores of Kappé and SAR in this new joint venture will create new opportunities to improve the layout and appearance of these locations.
The transaction is still subject to approval by competition authorities and advice from the works councils of Kappé, SAR and Schiphol.
“Our shared vision is to transform the duty free experience into a world-leading standard, blending operational excellence with a uniquely Dutch sense of place,” said Lucio Rossetto, Chief Operating Officer Europe, Lagardère Travel Retail. “Together, we aim to set new benchmarks for the travel retail industry.”
