(5 July 2004) Dubai Duty Free posts 43% rise in first half

The retailer attributed its success in part to recent refurbishments in Dubai's Sheikh Rashid terminal and the addition of new duty-free areas
First half sales at Dubai Duty Free have risen to $236m, representing a 43% increase over the same period last year and placing the airport retailer well on track for its forecast sales of $500m in 2004. The rise follows a 45% increase in sales in the first quarter.

Commenting on the half year results, HH Sheik Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president of the Department of Civil Aviation said: “The sales figures are a clear indication of how successful the retail operation is and underline its position as number three in the world in terms of turnover.”

A breakdown of the first half sales shows dramatic increases in the top categories. Fragrances rose by 50%, gold sales are up by 47% and electronics sales up by 36%.

Dubai Duty Free managing director Colm McLoughlin said: “It has been a fantastic year-to-date. In addition to increases in the individual sales categories, there has also been an increase in the penetration level, which has risen to 45% and in sales per passenger, which is at an all time high of $43.”

McLoughlin said that the increase in sales can be attributed in part to the recent refurbishments in Sheikh Rashid terminal in the past year which has resulted in the opening of a new gold shop, a new watch shop and more recently a new Gifts from Dubai shop, which was officially inaugurated by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum in June.

“The Gifts from Dubai shop reflects the destination, which is something that is increasingly popular with international travellers,” added McLoughlin.
Since the opening of Gifts from Dubai, sales in souvenirs and destination merchandise have risen by 101% over the same period last year.

(From "travelretailworld.com")

Around the World - Dubai Duty Free

Currently ranked number 12 in the world among airport duty free's in terms of revenue, Dubai Duty Free has posted consistent year on year growth since 1984, with a phenomenal increase of 850% in sales. The organisation had a turnover last year of US$ 190 million. Gold and jewellery held the number one position as the highest selling items, accounting for around 16% of total sales.

Since 1985, its second year of operation, Dubai Duty Free's products and services have earned it more than 67 international accolades and awards and a reputation for excellence among travellers that span the globe.This year Dubai Duty Free has garnered further two awards for an already crowded trophy cabinet - it has won for the sixth consecutive time the "World's Best Airport Duty Free Shopping Award", awarded by Business Traveller Germany, and the Travel Intelligence award for "Best Duty Free in the Middle East".

Ingeniously designed at the centre of the Rashid Terminal, the duty free shopfloor with its spectacular design, visual effects and myriad product ranges in every category imaginable, is experienced by every single passenger travelling out of the new concourse.A feast for the senses in every sense of the word, the new Dubai Duty Free shopfloor offers a level of service and facilities yet to be seen in any other duty free in the world. At the centre of the shopfloor is a spectacular 18 metre high stainless steel "millennium tree" incorporating hundreds of laser lights on its gleaming branches that produce an infinite variety of mesmerising visual effects and patterns.

With customer convenience at the forefront of all design, Dubai Duty Free has created duplicate outlets for some of the organisation's top selling products. Such categories as cigarettes and liquor and fine foods are displayed at both ends of the shopfloor. Dedicated areas within the shop floor area include a comprehensive section showcasing the latest and widest range of electronic, computer, audio-visual, photographic and sound products.

The world famous Dubai Duty Free promotions continue in the new shopping complex, adding further excitement to the pleasurable shopping experience on offer. The Finest Surprise promotion, which offers ticketholders the chance of winning a luxury motor car, and the spectacular Millennium Millionaire draw which has as its prize $1 million for the cost of a $278.00 ticket, continue to attract worldwide attention and interest.With this broad range of products, services and facilities, Dubai Duty Free offers sheer shopping pleasure in the most elegant environment.