Travel retail has become a crucial driver of growth in the beauty sector, particularly in the Middle East. Major international airport hubs in the region provide brands with access to diverse nationalities, including Indians and Chinese travelers, who often lack domestic availability of these labels. As a result, airport stores flourish in emerging markets, offering the sought-after brands that consumers desire.
This channel serves as a strategic avenue for beauty brand development. Major players like L’Oréal, Estée Lauder Companies, and LVMH have actively sought to expand their portfolios through airport retail. Notably, Dubai International Airport in the UAE has emerged as a leading hub for travel retail. Its key operator, Dubai Duty Free (DDF), reported a record revenue of $2.16 billion in 2023, with perfumes accounting for 17% of sales, or $374 million, making it the top product category for the retailer, far surpassing liquor in second place.
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