In major breaking news in the Americas, DFS has taken another step out of the duty free channel, today announcing that it is transferring its travel retail concessions in Los Angeles International Airport and San Francisco International Airport to Duty Free Americas (DFA). The transfer is expected to close in Q2, subject to customary closing conditions.
DFA, a family-owned and operated business and part of Falic Group, is the largest travel retail operator in the Americas and a leading operator worldwide.
DFS and DFA are fully committed to ensuring a smooth transition, maintaining operational continuity for airports, customers and brand partners, and sustaining the highest standards of retail excellence. The DFS sales and support staff at LAX and SFO, along with warehouse staff will be offered continued employment with DFA.
Ed Brennan, Chairman and CEO of DFS, commented: “This strategic decision reflects DFS’ ongoing portfolio adjustment. We thank our customers and airport partners for their trust and support over the years in two of North America’s most important airport locations and extend our heartfelt appreciation to our employees for their unwavering service. We are confident that this move will ensure continued success and opportunity for our transferring employees with DFA, a company well-positioned to leverage their expertise and deep understanding of the US travel retail market to grow the business.”
“The transfer of Los Angeles and San Francisco International Airports underscores our growth strategy, further expanding both our airport footprint and luxury retail presence,” commented Leon Falic, Falic Group and DFA President. “We are delighted to be partnering with two of the top airports in the Americas, which are also among the most important globally, with an exceptional gateway to international routes. We warmly welcome the airports, brands, and customer partners to our family as we begin this exciting journey together.”
