Wintertaling is thrilled to announce its pivotal role in advising Lagardère Travel Retail on securing one of the most significant partnerships in the travel retail industry. Lagardère Travel Retail has been awarded the exclusive Duty-Free tender at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, Europe’s fourth-largest aviation hub.

This landmark transaction marks a transformative milestone for both Lagardère Travel Retail and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, reinforcing the strength and potential of Wintertaling’s growing M&A practice.

Wintertaling’s M&A team, led by Marein Smits and Julien van Oosten, provided comprehensive legal counsel throughout the transaction. This included guidance on structuring the partnership, addressing regulatory and competition law matters, and ensuring a seamless negotiation process.

“This project underscores the exceptional capabilities of our M&A practice,” said Marein Smits, Partner and CEO at Wintertaling. “It reflects our ability to advise on high-profile international transactions that demand precision, strategic insight, and a deep understanding of complex legal frameworks. Working on such a transformative deal has been an honor and a testament to the trust our clients place in us.”

The agreement establishes Lagardère Travel Retail as the sole operator of over twenty Duty-Free stores at Schiphol, a deal that includes acquiring a 70% stake in the operating company managing the business, with Amsterdam Schiphol Airport holding the remaining 30%. Building on a decade-long partnership in Fashion and Souvenirs, this expanded collaboration will deliver world-class retail experiences across key categories, including perfumes & cosmetics, sunglasses, and liquor, tobacco & confectionery.

The ambitious redevelopment plans will feature redesigned and expanded retail spaces, creating a seamless and elevated shopping experience for the millions of passengers traveling through the airport each year. The deal represents a significant step forward in Lagardère Travel Retail’s strategy to solidify its position as a major Duty-Free operator in Europe.

“This partnership will solidify Lagardère Travel Retail's position as a major Duty-Free operator in the European market. We are very pleased to have been selected by Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and look forward to strengthening our long-term relationship. Together, we will aim to transform and elevate the retail experience,” said Dag Rasmussen, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lagardère Travel Retail in the company's press release.

Photo copyright - Lagardère Travel Retail

The transaction is subject to approval by Dutch competition authorities and other customary conditions, with completion expected in the first half of 2025.

Wintertaling is proud to have contributed to a deal that will not only strengthen Lagardère Travel Retail’s European presence but also redefine the retail experience at one of the continent’s busiest airports. This moment represents a significant achievement for both Lagardère Travel Retail and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, and we are excited about the transformative potential of this partnership.