GMR Aero becomes largest duty free operator in India and South Asia

GMR Aero has become the largest duty free operator in India and South Asia.

This follows its commencement of operations of Delhi Duty Free outlets at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), New Delhi, effective 28 July, 2025, as reported.

After a competitive bidding process in April 2024, GMR Aero emerged as the Selected Bidder to design, develop, finance, set up, operate, manage, and maintain the duty free outlets at IGI Airport.

Ashish Chopra has been appointed CEO of GMR Airports Limited  Group Duty Free Business, moving from his position as CEO Delhi Duty Free Services.

Delhi Duty Free, India’s largest airport-based duty free retail operation, has become a significant addition to GMR Aero’s expanding retail footprint. This addition complements its existing duty free operations at Hyderabad International Airport, Manohar International Airport in Goa, and Kannur International Airport in Kerala.

The inclusion of Delhi Duty Free positions GMR Aero as the largest duty free operator in India and South Asia, further strengthening its presence in the global airport retail landscape.

This strategic move is a pivotal opportunity to elevate the scale, efficiency, and innovation potential of GMR Airport’s non-aeronautical business.

GMR Group Business Chairman – Airports, GBS Raju stated: “We are delighted to welcome Delhi Duty Free business into the GMR Aero family. This will certainly strengthen our leadership in airport retail and reflects our vision to transform the passenger experience. From luxury offerings to innovative technology, we are committed to reshaping the duty-free business in India.”

GMR Airports Limited President & CEO – Commercial & Growth, Rajesh Arora added: “Delhi Duty Free becoming part of GMR Airport’s Adjacency businesses marks a defining moment in our journey. This is more than just commercial integration; it is a convergence of talent, vision, and capabilities.

“This makes us the country’s and South Asia’s largest duty free operator and reinforces our commitment to elevating airport retail and non-aeronautical services.”

GMR Airports Limited CEO – Group Duty Free Business, Ashish Chopra commented: “This milestone reflects GMR Airport’s evolving vision — from traditional retail to dynamic travel commerce.

“We are committed to delivering a seamless experience that blends global excellence with local charm, powered by digital transformation and human expertise.

“With Delhi Duty Free now part of GMR Aero’s portfolio, we are poised to define the next chapter of airport retail in India.”

This development aligns with GMR’s long-term strategy to enhance passenger engagement, strengthen its commercial ecosystem, and create scalable retail models that serve both international travellers and global retail partners. The Delhi Duty Free business, and its portfolio of luxury, lifestyle, and speciality products, will continue to operate under the GMR Aero’s vision of delivering superior customer experience and operational excellence.

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