BELFAST International Airport is celebrating the completion of a £3 million shopping mall which has led
to 50 new jobs. The 13,000 square foot development has attracted high-street names with more than a third of the space
taken up by a major new tax and duty free outlet run by the leading international French retail group,
Aelia.
'Les Boutiques' is Aelia's first store in the UK and occupies a 5,000 square foot, purpose-built extension
which was built as a joint venture with Belfast International Airport at a cost of £1.5 million. Aelia
operates 120 stores in 13 airports including Paris Charles de Gaulle and Paris Orly.
The impressive shopping mall is the first in a series of multi-million pound airport investments scheduled
to be made over the course of the next five years. Alongside Aelia is Starbucks, Boots, World News, A
Taste of Ulster, Dixons Tax Free, Paul Rankin Wine and CafÈ Paul Rankin.

The mall is located beyond the security hall and is open to the millions who use the rapidly expanding
airport. 'Les Boutiques' offers international brands previously unavailable in Northern Ireland alongside Virgin Music
and Kippling Bags.
Albert Harrison, Managing Director of Belfast International Airport, said: "The expansion and major
re-vamp is a clear expression of the confidence we have in the future of this airport. It is also a
confidence shared by others including local, national and now international retailers who have invested in
this magnificent airside development.
"I am delighted in our partnership with Aelia, and the fact that it is that company's first UK venture. Aelia
is synonymous with product quality and value and I have no doubt that this outlet will be a resounding
success.
"Belfast International is gearing up for a hectic few months with our new direct trans-Atlantic scheduled
flights to New York in May and new European destinations. And with increased passenger usage,
there is the need to develop first-class airport facilities in line with demand. "We will be serving close to five million passengers
this year which means that this airport accounts for 4,500 jobs. The significant contribution we make to
the economic well-being of Northern Ireland will continue apace as new routes are opened up and more
people opt for the comprehensive range of destinations we have to offer".
Michel Perol, Aelia Chief Executive, said: " This new development at Belfast International presents an
exciting retail experience to the Northern Ireland travelling public.
"'Les Boutiques at Belfast International Airport' will offer a great variety of the best international brands
as well as some typically Northern Irish products. The offer will be renewed every month, with special
promotions and exceptional value, so that passengers will always find something fresh and exciting when
they pass through the airport.
"We are working hand in hand with the airport to make this a unique shopping experience, ensuring that 'Les
Boutiques' becomes a store of choice for Northern Ireland".