Falic Group cquires DFS' luxury retail concessions at Zayed International Airport

Parent company of Duty Free Americas, the Falic Group, is expanding its presence in luxury travel retail through the acquisition of DFS’ business at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi.

The group has agreed to acquire 100 percent of DFS’ luxury travel retail concessions at the airport, giving Duty Free Americas an immediate presence in the growing Middle Eastern travel retail market. The deal, which is expected to close in the third quarter subject to customary conditions, covers fashion, watches, jewellery and eyewear.

The acquisition will also provide a platform for Duty Free Americas to expand its brand offering at the airport. Plans include introducing new flagship brands, increasing the space dedicated to existing top performers and developing open-air retail concepts aimed at creating a more flexible shopping experience for passengers.

Speaking on the news, Leon Falic, president of Falic Group, said the deal “marks a key milestone in our Middle East growth strategy and further expands our airport footprint and luxury retail presence". He added: “Duty Free Americas and Abu Dhabi Airports share an ambitious vision to further develop and elevate the luxury travel retail offering together.”

In a separate statement, Carsten Nørland, chief commercial officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, said Duty Free Americas’ expertise would help create a “more dynamic and value-driven retail environment” at Zayed International Airport, aligned with changing passenger expectations.