Aberdeen International Airport has appointed strategic design consultancy Portland Design to help redefine its retail offering as part of a major £2.5 million commercial investment.
The move marks a key step in the airport’s wider transformation plans, with the majority of retail and food and beverage units set to be upgraded or redeveloped over the next 16 months. The programme represents one of the most significant commercial refurbishments undertaken at the airport in recent years.
The project forms part of AGS Reimagined, AGS Airports’ long-term strategy to deliver modern, sustainable and passenger-focused airports across Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton. It also signals continued confidence in the north-east of Scotland’s role as a hub for tourism, business and connectivity.
Portland Design was selected through a competitive tender process and has since developed a comprehensive set of Retail Design Guidelines, which will underpin the multi-million-pound investment across the terminal.
These guidelines aim to ensure all future retail and food and beverage developments align with the airport’s values, while enhancing the passenger experience and supporting long-term commercial growth. Drawing on customer insights, regional identity and demographic data, the framework has been designed to reflect the character of Aberdeen and the wider North East.
The approach places a strong emphasis on creating a sense of place, with contemporary yet locally inspired design. It also sets out clear standards for operators, including improved visibility, intuitive layouts and high-quality environments to encourage longer dwell time and stronger commercial performance.
Tom Hack, Retail Director at AGS Airports, said: “Aberdeen International Airport is at the beginning of a transformative period for our retail facilities, with more than £2.5 million being invested and most units set for change over the next year and a half. This represents a major commitment to improving the passenger experience and strengthening the airport’s commercial proposition.
“Following a robust tender process, Portland Design were the clear choice to help us define the vision for our next generation of retail and food & beverage experiences.
“Our passengers, many of whom travel with us frequently, expect an offer that reflects who they are and the region we serve. It’s not just about what’s on the shelves – it’s about design quality, service style, flow and ultimately creating a welcoming environment that embodies the spirit of the north‑east of Scotland.
“Portland has helped distil that spirit into a clear and practical set of retail guidelines that will guide every future commercial development. Their work ensures we are entering the tender phase with confidence, clarity and a shared ambition for quality.”
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Graham Needham, Associate Director at Portland Design, added: “We have enjoyed collaborating with the team at Aberdeen International Airport to create a locally rooted commercial experience that enhances the passenger journey while driving commercial success.”
The newly developed Retail Design Guidelines will now play a central role in shaping the airport’s commercial strategy, ensuring future partners contribute to a cohesive and high-quality environment that reflects the region while maximising the long-term value of the investment.
