Dufry consolidates partnership with Holland America Line by expanding retail concession to entire fleet of ships

Dufry has signed a contract to expand its concession with Holland America Line to operate duty free shops onboard 6 additional cruise ships for 5 years. With the new agreement, Dufry will now operate duty free shops on the entire HAL fleet, which covers all major tourist routes in the world.

Following the contract signed in 2018, Dufry and Holland America Line’s new agreement covers more than 1,500 sqm of additional retail space. Dufry will now be present on all 15 Holland America ships with a total of more than 3,500 sqm of retail space. The contract includes the Nieuw Statendam, HAL’s most recent ship launched last December.

René Riedi, Divisional Chief Executive Officer Central and South America for Dufry, commented:

 “We are very pleased with this additional agreement, which consolidates our successful partnership with Holland America Line. It represents an important milestone in our strategy to grow in the travel retail cruise market, a promising channel in terms of passenger growth and retail opportunities.

 “We would like to thank Holland America Line for the partnership and for the trust in us to deliver a world class experience to travelers.”

The shops will offer a comprehensive duty free assortment including the traditional product categories of perfumes/cosmetics, spirits, watches, accessories and confectionery.

The retail offer will also include Holland America Line logo merchandise and local and cruise ship-branded souvenirs creating a sense of place for passengers.

 Holland America Line offers more than 500 sailings a year visiting all seven continents, including destinations to the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Mexico, South America, the Panama Canal, Australia, New Zealand, Asia and Antarctica.

 Kelli Coleman, Onboard Revenue Vice President at Holland America Group, added: “We are thrilled to expand our partnership with Dufry Cruise Services by adding 6 vessels, including our new ship Nieuw Statendam.”

“This achievement reinforces Dufry Cruise Services’ position as one of the most dynamic and strongest players in the cruise line channel, which holds potential growth opportunities,” said the company in its official announcement.

Cruise Lines International Association forecasts that the cruise industry will grow +6% in 2019, with an estimated 30 million travelers.