Avolta AG has recently announced that they have secured an 11-year duty-free contract for Terminal 8 at John F. Kennedy International Airport. This contract will further expand Avolta’s presence at one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs. The agreement includes the development of over 4,400 square meters of retail space, adding to Avolta’s existing portfolio at the New York airport.
The new contract is part of a USD 125 million commercial redevelopment project led by Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) Airports and American Airlines, in collaboration with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. This project is part of a larger USD 19 billion transformation plan for JFK, which aims to modernize terminals, improve passenger services, and enhance New York’s global aviation profile.
Avolta’s Dufry brand will be responsible for curating an upgraded duty-free experience at Terminal 8, introducing a mix of high-end and locally inspired retail concepts. This will include global luxury boutiques, a pre-loved designer shop, and stores that showcase the spirit and culture of New York City. The redevelopment is expected to enhance both the retail offering and the overall traveler experience at the terminal.
CEO of Avolta, Xavier Rossinyol, stated that the partnership with JFK represents one of the company’s most significant achievements in North America in recent years. He also emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation and setting new standards in airport retail and F&B. President and CEO of Avolta North America, Steve Johnson, added that the expansion aligns with the company’s strategy to redefine the airport shopping experience. He also expressed their excitement to be selected as the partner to transform Terminal 8 into a world-class travel experience.
Avolta’s multi-brand operations at JFK, including Dufry, HMSHost, and Hudson, are essential to the airport’s commercial upgrade. The company’s involvement covers duty-free retail, convenience outlets, and dining concepts designed to cater to a diverse international passenger base. With this new contract, Avolta now holds eight contracts across JFK Airport, further highlighting their growing presence in the U. S. travel retail market.
The wider USD 19 billion plan by the Port Authority includes the construction of two new terminals, the modernization and expansion of two existing ones, a new ground transportation center, and a simplified roadway network. This transformation aims to create a seamless, world-class gateway for the more than 62 million passengers who pass through JFK annually. Avolta’s contribution to Terminal 8 is positioned as a cornerstone of this vision, blending luxury retail with accessible, locally themed experiences.
Terminal 8 is a major hub for American Airlines and its Oneworld partners, including British Airways, Iberia, and Qatar Airways. The addition of premium retail and dining options aims to align the terminal with the standards of the newly-built international facilities at JFK, offering travelers more choice and comfort during transit.
The redevelopment of Terminal 8’s commercial spaces also reflects