Gebr. Heinemann and Fraport AG expand retail space at Frankfurt Airport

Gebr. Heinemann and Fraport AG expand retail space at Frankfurt Airport. Frankfurt Airport Retail GmbH (FAR) is expanding its retail presence in the new Terminal 3 at Frankfurt Airport, which is expected to open in 2026. This joint venture between Gebr. Heinemann and Fraport AG aims to enhance the shopping experience by offering over 3,000 m² of retail space, including a major Duty Free shop and various monobrand boutiques. The new terminal’s design and retail mix are crafted to cater to an international clientele, aiming for an unforgettable shopping experience.

Gebr. Heinemann and Fraport AG expand retail space at Frankfurt Airport

On 12th June 2025, it was announced that Frankfurt Airport Retail GmbH (FAR), a collaborative venture between Fraport AG and Gebr. Heinemann, will command over 3,000 m² of retail space in the upcoming Terminal 3 at Frankfurt Airport. This development marks a significant step in enhancing the airport’s commercial landscape and is part of one of Europe’s largest infrastructure projects, set to open in the first half of 2026.

Gebr. Heinemann and Fraport AG: A Partnership

Gebr. Heinemann’s involvement at Frankfurt Airport spans more than five decades, making it a longstanding player in the retail sector. Florian Seidel, Chief Sales Officer at Gebr. Heinemann, highlights the significance of this joint venture: “Our partnership with Fraport is built on shared success and aims to elevate the retail experience at Frankfurt Airport further.” This ongoing collaboration is expected to set new trends in airport retailing, which is particularly pertinent given the diverse international audience passing through.

Tailored Retail Mix for an International Audience

The retail space at Terminal 3 is designed to function as a marketplace, creating memorable shopping moments for travellers. This environment encourages exploration and enjoyment, with a retail mix that caters specifically to the preferences of Frankfurt Airport’s diverse clientele. Anke Giesen, Fraport AG’s Executive Director Retail and Real Estate, emphasises the importance of this partnership in enriching the retail mix, ensuring that it meets the evolving needs of travellers.

Gebr. Heinemann and Fraport AG expand retail space at Frankfurt Airport – The Duty Free Experience

A standout feature of Terminal 3 will be the Duty Free shop, which will occupy a significant 1,732 m², designed with the aspiration to create an unforgettable shopping experience. Tobias Bechinger, Director Sales Western Europe at Gebr. Heinemann, notes that this vision will be reflected in every aspect of the shop—from its architecture to product selection and customer service. Travellers can expect a comprehensive assortment of quality goods across various categories, including beauty items, spirits, confectionary, and regional delicacies. Notably, the shop will feature a dedicated area for luxurious niche fragrances and a Habanos Specialist Humidor, catering to specific consumer tastes.

Design Inspired by Local Elements

The design of the new Duty Free space is particularly noteworthy, drawing inspiration from the region’s natural surroundings and the river Main. The architecture aims to evoke a sense of place, capturing fluid forms and light play that mirrors the dynamic environment of Frankfurt as a major European hub. This thoughtful design approach not only enhances the aesthetic experience but also facilitates smooth customer movement through the retail area.

Beyond Duty Free: A Diverse Retail Offering

Beyond the flagship Duty Free shop, Terminal 3 will host additional Duty Free and Travel Value shops, along with several monobrand boutiques. Notable brands such as Boss and Montblanc will feature prominently, along with the innovative Gatezero shop, which presents a blend of luxury and trend-driven assortments aimed at younger consumers. Gatezero’s multichannel approach enhances its appeal as a destination for the new generation of shoppers looking for cutting-edge brands.

Conclusion: A New Era for Airport Retail

The development of the retail space in Terminal 3 at Frankfurt Airport represents a significant evolution in airport shopping, marrying brand diversity with thoughtful design and customer experience. For employees of perfumery retailers and cosmetics manufacturers, this initiative provides insights into emerging trends in the retail landscape, particularly how a curated shopping experience can drive customer engagement and satisfaction. The collaboration between Gebr. Heinemann and Fraport illuminates the potential for innovative retail concepts in airport environments, setting a standard for future developments in the industry.

{Text: epcnews/Photos: Frankfurt Airport Retail]