Lagardère Travel Retail has expanded its footprint in Albania with the opening of a new 100sqm duty-free store at the Port of Durrës. This strategic move strengthens the company’s presence in the rapidly growing Albanian tourism market, following its earlier success at Tirana International Airport.
Key Takeaways
- A new 100sqm duty-free store has opened at the Port of Durrës, Albania’s busiest seaport.
- The store is operated by Lagardère Travel Retail Albania, a joint venture with Kastrati Group.
- It offers a mix of international brands and local Albanian specialties.
- The expansion reinforces Lagardère’s commitment to Albania’s burgeoning tourism sector.
Strategic Location and Offerings
The new store is strategically located in the transit zone of the Port of Durrës, just after the border crossing checkpoint. This prime position allows it to serve the nearly one million passengers who pass through the port annually, particularly those traveling on ferries between Albania and Italy. The store offers a diverse range of premium products, including tobacco, alcohol, perfumes, and cosmetics, featuring both international brands and authentic Albanian specialties like raki, local wines, traditional sweets, and souvenirs.
Partnership and Regional Significance
This expansion is a result of a significant partnership between Lagardère Travel Retail and the Kastrati Group. The opening of the duty-free store at the Port of Durrës, Albania’s busiest maritime gateway, underscores the growing importance of the region as a travel hub in Southeast Europe. The Durrës region, known for its picturesque coastline, is increasingly attracting international tourists.
Enhancing the Travel Experience
The new duty-free store aims to significantly enhance the travel experience for both tourists and locals. Passengers can now enjoy tax-free shopping, access premium international brands, and discover unique Albanian products. The store provides a modern and welcoming retail environment that aligns with international standards while celebrating local culture, offering exclusive pricing and adding value to the travel journey.
Commitment to Albania’s Tourism Growth
The opening ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Catherine Suard, Ambassador of France to Albania, and Kreshnik Bajraktari, General Director of the Port of Durrës, alongside Stanislav Beranek, CEO of Lagardère Travel Retail Albania. This event highlights Albania’s ambition to strengthen its position in the Adriatic tourism market. Lagardère Travel Retail’s continued investment in key transport hubs like the Port of Durrës demonstrates its dedication to developing a comprehensive and modern travel retail environment in Albania, catering to the evolving needs of international travelers.
Sources
- Lagardère Expands in Albania with New Duty-Free Store at Durrës Port, Travel And Tour World.
- Lagardère Travel Retail extends presence in Albania with Durrës port store : Moodie Davitt Report, Moodie Davitt Report.
- Lagardère Travel Retail opens new duty-free store at the Port of Durrës, TRBusiness.
- Lagardère Travel Retail Albania unveils Port of Durrës duty free store, DFNI.
