In what it calls “a remarkable display of resilience” amid ongoing challenges with traffic and sales, Peace Arch Duty Free has achieved a record-breaking milestone, selling a 6L bottle of Louis XIII Cognac for CAD $170,000—the highest-value single-item sale in the shop’s history.
This landmark purchase reflects a growing shift in customer demographics, with increasing demand from affluent Asian and South Asian travelers residing in the United States, says the company. These customers are actively seeking rare and premium spirits, including exclusive cognacs and single malt whiskies.
“We’re seeing a clear trend toward luxury purchases,” said Peter Raju, President of Peace Arch Duty Free. “This sale underscores the need to expand our high-end selection to meet the evolving tastes of our international clientele.”
In anticipation of improved U.S.–Canada trade conditions and resolution of existing tariff issues, Peace Arch Duty Free is poised to move forward with a CAD $5 million renovation project. The plan includes a full modernization of the store, located on First Nations land, to bring it in line with global retail standards. Upgrades will include enhanced retail technologies, expanded product offerings, and an emphasis on attracting prestigious international brands.
The transformation aims to position Peace Arch Duty Free as not only the largest land border duty free shop in North America, but also the most luxurious.
