Avolta AG, through its Hudson brand and in collaboration with local small businesses, has been awarded a 20-year duty-free contract at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). The agreement, announced on October 7, 2026, covers more than 2,800 square meters of new travel retail space across three concourses: A, N, and S. This expansion builds on Avolta’s existing operations at SEA, where it currently runs both travel retail and food & beverage outlets.
The new duty-free stores will reflect Avolta’s strategy of tailoring retail experiences to each location, drawing inspiration from Seattle and Washington State. Travelers can expect an international duty-free offering alongside locally sourced foods and gifts, Washington State spirits, dedicated tasting experiences, and an exclusive ‘Exploring Seattle’ retail range designed specifically for SEA. The experience will be further enriched by live performances from Seattle artists, local product tastings, and installations inspired by the city’s iconic glass artist, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the region’s sights, sounds, and flavors before departing.
Steve Johnson, President & CEO, North America, Avolta, emphasized the transformative potential of the new offer: “This new duty-free offer, coupled with Hudson’s emphasis on immersive experiences and digital engagement, will transform the travel experience at SEA. We are proud and excited to grow our long-time partnership with the Port of Seattle to help usher in the next phase of SEA’s evolution and make the journey as exciting as the destination for the millions of travelers from around the world who visit the airport every year.”
Port of Seattle Commissioner Sam Cho highlighted the broader impact: “Duty-free shops are a hallmark of major international airports, and this expansion enables SEA to meet growing demand through innovative use of space and technology that elevates the overall traveler experience. This contract also builds in meaningful opportunities for women, minority, and small-owned businesses to continue thriving at SEA, reinforcing our long-standing commitment to supporting and uplifting local entrepreneurs.”
The contract underscores Avolta’s commitment to growth and innovation in travel retail, particularly in North America. By integrating local culture and supporting small businesses, the company aims to create a sense of place for travelers. This move is significant as it not only enhances SEA’s retail offerings but also contributes to the local economy by providing opportunities for underrepresented entrepreneurs. As air travel continues to recover and evolve, such long-term investments signal confidence in the future of international travel and the role of airports as destinations in their own right.
For further details, the original release is available on www.newmediawire.com, as reported by NEWMEDIAWIRE.
