Avolta secures 10-year contract renewal at Athens International
Avolta AG has secured a ten-year contract renewal with Athens International Airport in Greece, extending its retail operations there until early 2034. This extension will allow Avolta to maintain its 31 retail outlets, which cover an area greater than 4,900 square meters at Greece’s busiest airport. The deal highlights the role of Avolta’s robust business partnerships in advancing its “Destination 2027” strategy, which aims to revolutionize travel experiences.
Since the airport’s inception in 2001, Avolta’s subsidiary, Hellenic Duty Free Shops, has been managing duty free retail stores there. In February 2024, Avolta expanded its retail space by about 290 square meters during a refurbishment of the duty-free store in the Schengen area. This upgrade aims to improve the shopping experience by enhancing the Perfume and Cosmetics section and expanding the accessories range. It also includes broader checkout areas and a self-checkout option, all incorporated within a design that reflects the Greek ambiance, promoting local products, cuisine, and souvenirs.
Luis Marin, President and CEO Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Avolta, expressed gratitude towards Athens International Airport, celebrating the continued partnership which has flourished over the past 23 years. He stated: “We are thankful to Athens International Airport and proudly announce the extension of our partnership – a collaboration that has been mutually successful for the past 23 years and is now set to continue to the beginning of 2034. I also extend my sincere thanks to the team at Avolta, whose collective efforts paved the way for a significant contract extension at one of the key airports in which we operate in Southern Europe, and which is so important to Mediterranean tourism. As we journey towards our Destination 2027 strategy, we continue to provide travelers with premium experiences and exceptional services, based on a deep understanding of our stakeholders’ needs and market trends. We are committed to reshaping the travel experience through innovative solutions and loyal partnerships, ultimately transforming airports into destinations that travelers are happy to spend time in.”
George Eleftherakos, Chief Development Officer at Athens International Airport, said, “We are excited to expand our long-lasting relationship with Avolta, acclaimed operators of the largest retail concession at the Athens International Airport. Working together for ten more years with a global leader in travel experience like Avolta, is definitely a step towards accomplishing our common goal for providing the best that Greece has to offer and a truly unforgettable Athenian airport experience to millions of travellers passing through our Airport!”
Since March 2001, Athens International Airport has consistently provided high-quality services and has gained the confidence of airlines, passengers, partners, and stakeholders alike. In 2023, the airport facilitated connections for travelers from over 155 destinations across 55 countries via more than 65 airlines, serving approximately 28.17 million passengers – a 24% increase from 2022 and 10.2% more than in 2019. Over the past three years, the airport’s commercial offerings have been significantly enhanced, introducing numerous prestigious Greek and top international retail brands.
