Airport operator to invest more on commercial, retail segments

CEBU, Philippines – Driven by a bid to make the Mactan Cebu International Airport a total lifestyle destination, not just a mere terminal, private operator GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation announced to invest further on commercial and retail projects.

A shopping mall and a commercial lifestyle strip will be constructed soon, alongside the construction of the Terminal 2, said GMCAC chief executive advisor Andrew Harrison.

A 230-meter commercial strip will soon be opened at the arrival road of the airport to expand the offering of the airport not only to passengers and the waiting families, but also to the general market.

The "Airport Village" will house cafes, restaurants, lifestyle and souvenir shops, among others, said Harrison.

Simultaneously, Harrison said the company will build a shopping mall adjacent to the terminal facility. This will complement the shopping amenities already operating inside the airport.

Harrison said the company will start looking at possible mall operator or developer, in order to complete its offering as a total destination.

He said the company wants the new airport to exude a leisurely experience where people linger and need not to hurry to get out of the airport.

Waiting for their flight schedules should be comfortable and fun for passengers, adding that families waiting for their loved ones to arrive could also enjoy while waiting.

According to Harrison, the retail segment in the airport plays a significant role in the airport's brand image, being firmly tied to Cebu's global reputation as a resort destination.

The two lifestyle developments that will be developed by GMCAC outside of the terminal are also intended to complement the growing luxury developments now being developed on the island. (FREEMAN)