Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) announced yesterday at the Airport Show 2010 in Dubai that an increase of 26.1 per cent in duty free sales was realised in the first quarter of 2010.
Based on a parallel 13.8 per cent increase in passengers, over the same period, the results clearly demonstrate a returning consumer confidence in the Abu Dhabi travel retail sector, after the recent effects of the economic downturn in 2008 and 2009.
Chief Commercial Officer for ADAC, Huraiz Almur Bin Huraiz, said: "We are encouraged by the first quarter results and to be 12.3 per cent ahead of passenger growth in turnover reinforces our strategy to continue to drive penetration, conversion and spend with our retail partners.
"Double-digit growth has been witnessed across all categories with luxury, perfume and cosmetics, liquor, gold and electronics being the star performers; exclusive launches and promotional campaigns have also contributed significantly to sales and similar activities are planned throughout 2010 to continue enhancing the retail experience and value offer for our customers."
ADAC anticipates that 2010 will also be another record year in terms of travel retail sales with the year-end forecast of over $160m suggested by the airports operator.
Assets
Abu Dhabi Airports Company is showcasing its assets of airports and subsidiaries at the Airport Show in Dubai running from today till April 27, along with outstanding services that Abu Dhabi International Airport offers for travellers.
The international airport recently witnessed an increase in passenger traffic of 13.8 per cent during the first quarter of 2010. ADAC will also showcase the latest expansion developments, specifically of the new Midfield Terminal Complex (MTC), which is expected to be completed in 2015.
Public joint-stock firm
Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) is a public joint-stock company wholly owned by the Abu Dhabi Government. It was incorporated by Amiri Decree No 5, issued on March 4, 2006, to spearhead the development of the emirate's aviation infrastructure.
In September 2006, ADAC assumed responsibility for the operation and management of Abu Dhabi and Al Ain International Airports. In 2008, ADAC added Al Bateen Executive Airport (an exclusive private aviation airport), and Sir Bani Yas and Delma Island Airports to its portfolio. These airports are geared to serve the various segments of air travellers, the aviation marketplace, and will help contribute to Abu Dhabi's development as a destination for both business and leisure tourism. Currently under way is the multi-billion dollar re-development and expansion of Abu Dhabi International Airport designed to increase the overall capacity of the airport to more than 20 million passengers per year. As part of this redevelopment, a second runway and a third terminal have been completed. A new Air Traffic Control Tower is due to be operational this year and the Midfield Terminal Complex is expected to open in 2015.
