Gisele Woon
Image Credit: @_sznurfy_official_
Say goodbye to your favourite duty-free alcohol store: DFS has announced that they will be closing all its tobacco and liquor stores in Changi Airport when their lease expires in June next year.
According to The Straits Times, DFS did not participate in this year’s tender exercise.
A fan favourite among Singaporeans and tourists, DFS lets travellers purchase items exempted from local taxes and duties by presenting their passport and plane tickets.
Image Credit: @sg_magazine
Also read: Canopy Garden and Changi Experience Studio Opens at Jewel Changi Airport
Likely Influenced by Singapore’s New Rules on Duty-Free Liquor Consumption
According to a statement made by DFS Group Chairman and CEO Ed Brennan, the group’s decision not to bid was based on their “unique understanding of the business environment” as the current operator of the concession in the airport.
“Specially, changing regulations concerning the sale of liquor and tobacco, against a global context of geopolitical uncertainty” has resulted in their assessment that continuing operations in Changi was not “financially viable”.
Retail experts say this decision was likely influenced by Singapore’s tighter rules on liquor consumption, the new limit on alcohol duty-free concession, increase presence of online retail and new competition from Jewel Changi stores.
Image Credit: DFS Singapore
Also read: Fun Things to Do in Changi Airport Whether You’re A Local or Tourist
Hello, Potential New Operators
Don’t fret though; a new player will take over, with their announcement expected this November.
Three other firms – The Shilla Duty-Free of South Korea, Lotte Duty-Free and Gebr Heinemann of Germany, have submitted bids for the liquor and tobacco concession at Changi Airport. The tenancy terms covers 18 stores over 8’00 sq m of retail space across Changi Airport’s four terminals. The tender is expected to be awarded by year-end, and will run from June 9, 2020 till June 8, 2026.
So if you’re concerned about having to give up your duty-free booze, there’s no need to start mourning. You’ll still get to enjoy duty-free alcohol and tobacco for awhile… or at least till 2026.
