The outlook for commercial offerings within Malaysia Airports’ network of airports is brightening, with an increasing number of new and prominent brands establishing their presence. In the pursuit of customer experience excellence, Malaysia Airports is enhancing its commercial tenancy by expanding the international retail profile across its airport network through the introduction of new brands. Travelers are presented with exciting retail experiences such as F&B, retail therapy, bespoke pop-up stores, experiential kiosks, various engaging set-ups- making Malaysia Airports a retail destination worth exploring.
This is done through the Commercial Reset Strategy as part of Malaysia Airports’ initiative to refresh airport offerings and raise the retail profile of its airports beyond transportation hubs. As of December 2023, the total occupancy of commercial retail lots at the airports under Malaysia Airports’ network has reached 81% exceeding 2019 levels at 79%, 80% of which are located at both terminals of KL International Airport (KLIA). All these encompass new look outlets, first in Malaysia and first in airports.
The Senior General Manager of Malaysia Airports’ Commercial Services, Hani Ezra Hussin said, “At Malaysia Airports, customer experience always comes first. With the ongoing trend of increasing passenger returns to the airport as evidenced by the traffic performance reports, it is important for us to keep on elevating the experience of our passengers. We want the airport to become not only the place where they catch their flights, but also a destination on its own where passengers can always look forward to all the offerings available whether they are traveling via KLIA or other airports under our network. In 2024 and years ahead, there will be many more renowned big names coming to set their placement at our airports. We will continuously implement new experiences and standards to meet the evolving demands of passengers.”
KLIA recently welcomed big names in F&B providing a variety of international flavors including Asian, Western, Italian, Indian, vegetarian option, fusion, etc. to cater to the diverse tastes of travelers. Among the big names that were recently opened are Hard Rock Cafe, Jamie Oliver, Taco Bell, Noodles, Illy Cafe, The Loaf, Kyochon, Jibby Chow, Serai, O’Briens, Taste of India, Flight Club Signature, Din by Din Tai Fung, Kitchen by Openhouse, Plaza Premium Lounge, Global Lounge, and many more. For budget-friendly choice, passengers can opt for the newly refurbished Food Garden at Terminal 1 or Urban Food Court at Terminal 2 that caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences, offering unique and exclusive experiences choices. On top of that, KLIA's F&B scene provides more than just meals but also has an innovative technology integration, like McDonald's Robot Server and self-ordering kiosks, enhancing the dining experience and distinctive atmospheres.
Meanwhile, for passengers that look forward to the retail offerings at the airport, the recently refurbished first duty free mall in airport at the Satellite Building (SAT) of KLIA Terminal 1, Eraman Duty-Free Emporium offers an expansive retail space with interactive screens and self-checkout counters, setting a new standard in duty-free shopping. SAT also recently welcomed new outlets for Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch, TUMI, Michael Kors, and Bvlgari. The Duty-Free Arrival area after immigration clearance hosts premium liquor at PBH Duty Free, luxury perfumes and cosmetics at Beaute Love, and a confectionery haven at Candy Party.
Heinemann Duty-Free's revamped store at Terminal 2 of KLIA introduced a fresh shop concept, enhancing the layout for improved visibility throughout the store. This newly designed space features renowned brands like Kerastase, Vichy, La Roche Posay, Helena Rubinstein, Maison Margiela, La Prairie, Aqua di Parma, Fresh, and Le Labo. Notably, Heinemann stands as the first travel retailer to introduce these brands to Malaysia.
This growth not only showcases the airport's commercial strength but also promises increased economic activity and opportunities in the bustling airport environment, especially with an anticipated surge in passenger numbers in 2024.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.
