Recently, we announced the selection of Duty Free Americas (DFA) as the exclusive duty-free operator for John F. Kennedy International Airport’s New Terminal One. The duty-free shops, inspired by New York City’s skyline and landmarks while featuring iconic global brands alongside local products, will open in phases beginning in 2026 with completion in 2030.
Following our announcement, we had a chance to learn more about this exciting program thanks to a Q&A with Justin Douglas, Falic Group Chief Financial Officer, the founders of DFA.
What does it mean for Duty Free Americas to be selected as the exclusive duty-free partner for the New Terminal One at JFK?
Being selected as the exclusive duty-free partner for the New Terminal One is an incredible honor for Duty Free Americas. We are extremely excited and proud to be a key anchor of the terminal’s retail program. This partnership represents a unique opportunity for our organization to help usher in a new era of duty-free retail, with a strong focus on enhancing the customer experience and creating a more interactive retail journey. JFK New Terminal One is set to become the premier airport terminal in the United States, and this selection gives us a significant platform to showcase how our operations — and U.S. airports more broadly — can compete at a global, best-in-class level.
Skyline Duty Free is described as a “new benchmark” in travel retail. What sets this program apart on the global stage?
Skyline Duty Free represents a new benchmark in travel retail by delivering a truly premium and elevated offering. We will work closely with brands to curate 'destination-only' limited editions, exclusive products, and a rich selection of local goods, providing travelers with something genuinely unique. What sets Skyline apart on the global stage is the more interactive customer experience we offer — from dedicated activation areas to multi-sensorial tasting and product testing zones that engage travelers in new and exciting ways. We’ve thoughtfully designed our stores to feel personal, effortless, and unmistakably premium, because every detail should speak to the quality we represent. Additionally, our Cash and Carry model expands omnichannel opportunities and enables cross-collaboration across lounges, food and beverage locations, and other airport experiences, creating a seamless and enriched shopping environment.
From virtual reality to A.I. beauty bars, DFA is introducing a lot of new tech. How do these features enhance the customer journey?
At Duty Free Americas, we recognize that consumer preferences are evolving, and meaningful engagement is now a key driver of success in travel retail. To meet these changing expectations, we are embedding innovation into every aspect of Skyline Duty Free at JFK’s New Terminal One. Customers can expect a dynamic and memorable retail journey, featuring cutting-edge technologies such as holographic displays, multi-sensory VR tasting experiences, lift-and-learn product displays, and immersive beauty experiences powered by artificial intelligence. These features not only provide creative, interactive ways to engage with products but also enable travelers to quickly access product information and personalized recommendations in order to make confident purchasing decisions — all within the limited time they have at the airport. This commitment to technology and innovation ensures that every customer's experience is efficient, exciting, and uniquely tailored.
Skyline Duty Free emphasizes a distinctly New York City experience. How have you infused the spirit of NYC—and Queens in particular—into the retail offering?
Skyline Duty Free places a strong emphasis on delivering a distinctly New York City feeling, with a special nod to Queens, one of the world’s most vibrant and diverse boroughs. Right as passengers pass through security, they will encounter our "Local Only" store — positioned front and center — which highlights the very best of local New York and Queens-based businesses. The retail offering features elevated gifting and an eclectic mix of products across multiple categories, from artisanal goods to exclusive collaborations, all carefully curated to reflect the spirit and energy of the city. To keep the experience fresh and dynamic, the selection will rotate regularly, giving travelers new reasons to explore with every visit. In addition, we are introducing special events within our activation centers that emulate beloved New York traditions and festivals, further immersing passengers in the unique culture of the city from the moment they enter Terminal One.
DFA’s joint venture includes a significant ACDBE partner share. How are these partnerships shaping your approach to inclusive and sustainable growth?
Our joint venture was built with a strong commitment to growth and success, and we are incredibly proud to have assembled a team with complementary strengths across key areas such as marketing, IT, architecture, and community leadership. We have been intentional in ensuring that this is a truly collaborative partnership, where all members play active and meaningful roles in shaping the project. Importantly, three of our five partners are New York locals who are deeply connected to the community. Through close collaboration with them, we will work to bring more local products into our retail offering, coordinate with community programs, engage with local sports teams and artists, and prioritize the hiring of local talent. These efforts are essential not just for the success of Skyline Duty Free, but for fostering a lasting and positive impact on the broader community.
"We are extremely excited and proud to be a key anchor of the terminal’s retail program. This partnership represents a unique opportunity for our organization to help usher in a new era of duty-free retail, with a strong focus on enhancing the customer experience and creating a more interactive retail journey." Justin Douglas, Falic Group Chief Financial Officer
