Belfast Airport is undergoing an exciting transformation this spring, redefining the way travelers experience retail and dining before takeoff.
Just beyond the security checkpoint, a new journey begins—not only toward your gate, but through a thoughtfully designed walkthrough store that brings together global names and local treasures.
This fresh approach to airport retail is led by Lagardère Travel Retail in partnership with Belfast International Airport. At the heart of the update is a brand-new Aelia Duty Free store that blends duty-free shopping, food and beverage, and travel essentials into one seamless space. The walkthrough layout creates an immersive experience for passengers as they exit security and enter the departures concourse.
Among the expanded product portfolio are renowned global brands like Jo Malone and Rituals, with even more luxury additions such as Charlotte Tilbury and Creed expected in the coming weeks. However, the upgrade goes beyond big names—it brings in a sense of place and local pride that travelers won’t find in most international terminals.
One of the standout additions is White Star Coffee Co., a new dining concept inspired by Belfast’s heritage and culinary identity. Whether travelers are in need of a quality coffee before a morning flight or a quick bite with local flair, this new concept adds personality and flavor to the terminal experience.
Perhaps the most uniquely local feature is the “Discover Belfast” store, now integrated into the Aelia Duty Free environment. This section is dedicated to showcasing Northern Irish culture, history, and craftsmanship. Travelers will find items inspired by the legendary Titanic, which was built at Belfast’s Harland and Wolff shipyard, as well as hand-picked souvenirs, premium sweets, and exclusive products from local brands.
The store also acts as a global stage for Northern Irish producers. Through partnerships with McConnell’s Irish Whisky, Born & Bred, and Boatyard Distillery, Belfast Airport now helps regional businesses reach an international audience. These collaborations not only bring authentic Northern Irish goods to travelers but also support the visibility and growth of homegrown enterprises.
Dan Owens, CEO of Belfast International Airport, said this new chapter is about more than shopping—it’s about celebrating the region and elevating the travel experience. “The new retail and dining offer not only brings iconic names to our terminal but also proudly showcases the best of Northern Ireland to the world,” he said.
Lagardère Travel Retail, which operates nearly 5,000 stores in 51 countries, views this transformation as part of its larger mission to create personalized, locally inspired retail environments. Peter Newbould, CEO of Lagardère Travel Retail UK & Ireland, noted the company’s vision is to reimagine the airport journey: “With this transition, we’re not just enhancing retail—we’re creating moments of discovery and inspiration for every traveller passing through Belfast.”
This initiative also marks a continuation of the longstanding relationship between Lagardère Travel Retail and Belfast International Airport, built on a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and regional identity. The new store formats are not just commercial spaces—they’re part of a larger story about how airports can reflect and promote the character of the places they serve.
As spring unfolds, travelers passing through Belfast Airport will notice the change—not just in the décor or the product selection, but in the spirit of the space. With local and global offerings presented side by side, the terminal becomes more than a point of transit. It becomes an invitation to explore, discover, and connect with Belfast’s unique culture before you even leave the ground.
Are you traveling through Belfast International Airport soon? Let us know what you’re most excited to discover in the new retail space.
