Spending at Changi Airport hits record high to reach $2.2 billion in 2015

Sales at Changi Airport has hit another record high of $2.2 billion last year, placing it along the top three airports in the world in terms of retail business performance.

Spending at the airport’s retail and food stores grew by 8 per cent year on year, on the back of a growing number of passengers using the airport. Passenger traffic figures are expected to be released next week.

Travellers from China accounted for a third of the airport’s retail market, followed by Singapore consumers, who made up one-fifth. The other top spenders were from Indonesia, India and Australia.

Ms Lim Peck Hoon, executive vice-president of commercial at Changi Airport Group, said on Sunday (Jan 24): “We are delighted to achieve yet another record high for concession sales at Changi Airport in 2015. This is positive for the Singapore air hub as profits from our retail business help to offset the cost of our aeronautical operations.”

At Changi, shoppers’ favourite buys are liquor, tobacco, cosmetics and perfumes. They are followed by luxury goods, electronics and equipment and chocolates and candies.

Ms Lim said last year’s retail performance was due to a successful commercial strategy, which saw the introduction of liquor and beauty duplex stores that are the first in the world. These two-storey stores have their own bar lounges and wine tasting corners.

Last year also saw well-known brands such as Zara and Samsung launching their first stores at Changi Airport.

Other promotions such as the Star Wars soft toys promotion during the year-end holidays and the “Be a Changi Millionaire” draw also contributed to the retail buzz.

This afternoon, one traveller would walk away a million dollars richer from the sixth annual Changi Millionaire contest.