Sunshine Coast Airport has announced a new retail, food and beverage partnership that will see the largest commercial investment in the facility’s history.
The partnership with internationally-renowned Lagardere AWPL is set to transform the airport’s offerings.
Airport CEO Chris Mills said the two entities shared a vision for growth, quality and customer experience.
“Partnering with a world-class international operator allows us to reimagine what our terminal can offer to deliver more choice for travellers,” he said.
“Their reputation across the world and commitment to quality align strongly with our vision to improve the passenger experience and showcase the best of our region.
“The new venues are set to include a new all-day dining outlet celebrating the best produce our region has to offer, a coffee house, a burger and beer outlet, an expanded travel essentials store and, for the first time, a dedicated self-serve dessert bar.”
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Lagardere AWPL CEO Costa Kouros said the company, which operates more than 4900 stores in 51 countries worldwide, would bring its extensive experience in airport and other hospitality environments to the Sunshine Coast.
“The team and I are looking forward to expanding our partnership with Sunshine Coast Airport to bring world-class retail and dining experiences that showcase the full breath of our global and local expertise.”
As well as an increase in commercial space by almost double, the partnership places local growers, producers and makers at the centre of the airport’s refreshed offering, giving passengers the opportunity to experience the region’s best produce the moment they arrive.
“By creating opportunities for local producers to feature their products, we’re giving travellers a genuine taste of what makes our community so special,” Mr Mills said.
“This is about backing our local businesses, supporting local jobs and investment in our region.”
Outlets are set to include: Discover Sunshine Coast, a specialty retailer with local produce; Pavilion Kitchen & Bar, for all-day dining; Relay, for travel essentials; and Trader & Co, an arrivals cafe.
New restaurants and retail outlets will be opened in a phased approach as part of the terminal expansion, with all expected to be in operation by late 2027.
The first stage of the expansion was recently completed. The facility is expected to welcome more than 1.8 million passengers in the 2026 financial year and 2.4 million passengers by 2030.
Under the expansion, the terminal footprint will almost double, the domestic departure lounge will increase threefold, the departure gates will increase from five to seven, and there will be new check-in technology. The expansion is to be completed in 2027.
The state government has also signed off on a Sunshine Coast Airport Gateway Precinct Master Plan for land around the airport, paving the way for new development including a hotel, retail expansion and commercial opportunities.
