Milan's Airports Achieve Best Retail Results ever Fueled by Long-haul Traffic Recovery at Milano Malpensa

In the year of the robust post-COVID rebound, Milan airports performed extremely well in non-aviation revenues, which grew significantly because passengers have returned to shopping and changed their habits. They are spending more especially on food and the lounges, which have recorded more admissions.

The numbers speak for themselves: the commercial sector (shops and restaurants) set an all-time record turnover of 405 million euros, with a rise of 41% compared to 2022 against an increase in passenger traffic of 22%. The average spend per passenger increased by 15% to 11.50 euros.

Specifically, sales in shops grew by 43%, while spending per passenger increased by 17%; in the catering sector, sales increased by 35%, with 10% growth in spending per passenger.

There has been a notable increase (+52%) in airside sales at Malpensa Airport, including duty-free and specialty shops, with spending per passenger up by +25%.

Luxury, which also proved resilient during the pandemic, saw a strong increase of revenue for Terminal 1 shops with a 54% increase, exceeding the passenger growth rate (+34%), and with a 15% increase in average spending per passenger. This growth was particularly driven by the return of intercontinental traffic to Malpensa (Asia, United Arab Emirates, and United States).

"The results of SEA Milan Airports reflect outstanding performance and sustained growth in 2023," commented Luigi Battuello, Commercial Director of Non-Aviation at SEA. "This success testifies to our unwavering commitment to provide high-quality services and a memorable experience for our passengers. We are grateful for the continued support and trust shown by our customers and partners."