QATAR. Qatar Duty Free has maintained double-digit sales growth in the year to date amid plans to expand its retail network with a series of new brands, notably in luxury goods.
Qatar Duty Free Senior Vice President Luis Gasset told The Moodie Davitt Report: “As Hamad International Airport and Qatar Airways flourish so too does Qatar Duty Free, growing its portfolio of brands and delivering double-digit growth and exceptional performance across the luxury fashion segment, watches and jewellery.
“This has been further complemented by the introduction of additional Swatch Group brands including Omega, with more luxury brands lined to open over the next few months.”
These will include Bottega Veneta and Ermenegildo Zegna plus a new flagship Harrods store. In food & beverage, said Gasset, “our expanding portfolio of restaurants available to customers now includes the recently opened beIN Café and Illy Café.”
Among the highlights of the year to date, added Gasset, was the performance of a 180sq m Dior Les Parfums pop-up store in June, and a luxury watch fair held in May and June.
Of the latter, Gasset noted: “This was the first event of its kind that we have organised and brought together nine Swiss watch brands. It was received very well by customers and sales of both limited edition and general watch lines were strong. The event also introduced Omega, Longines and Tissot brands to the Qatar Duty Free offering for the first time.”
On the overall performance in 2016, Gasset noted that all categories have “maintained double-digit growth,” buoyed by new retail initiatives, expanded space and surging passenger traffic.
“Perfume & cosmetics, confectionery and liquor & tobacco segments remain strong, with transactions increasing in line with demand from our customers,” he said. “Harrods food and confectionery gifting items have seen notable growth and we will continue to support the brand with future development opportunities.”
*We’ll bring you more on Qatar Duty Free’s activities in The Official MEADFA Guide, published by The Moodie Davitt Report to coincide with the Middle East & Africa Duty Free Association Conference. The event will be held in Dubai on 28-29 November.
