Christchurch Airport has signed an eight-year concession with Lagardere Travel Retail that will see the airport double its international retail space.

The agreement includes the addition of four new retail offerings, including a South Island inspired bar, as well as a larger duty free offering.

“We are very excited about the changes that are coming and are pleased to have such a significant global retailer aligned to deliver the aspirations for the airport,” Christchurch Airports chief aeronautical and commercial officer Justin Watson said.

“Together, we are planning new experiential and digital developments to showcase the South Island to our visitors.”

Watson said there will be six new or expanded retail concepts in the duty free space, including Aelia Duty Free in arrivals and departures.

“Increasing the spaces and the offerings is designed to provide more choice and a better experience for our ever increasing number of visitors, as well as South Islanders going off to see the world,” Watson said.

The new offerings will cover 1928sqm of departures space and 544sqm of arrivals space and will be open in time for the peak holiday and tourist season.

A second phase of the project is due to commence next March and will be completed by the end of November 2019.

“It reinforces our strategic plan to operate three business units – Duty Free, Travel Essentials and Food Service – in one location,” Lagardere Travel Retail chief strategy and development officer in the Pacific region Paul Ryan said.

“Every detail has been well considered and tailored for the passengers travelling through the unique Christchurch Airport. We’re looking forward to bringing fresh innovation, interactive experiences and high-quality brand activations to our new concessions to enhance the customer journey.”