Aberdeen International Airport has appointed leading strategic design consultancy Portland Design to help shape the future of the airport’s retail offering, as part of a major commercial transformation representing an investment of more than £2.5 million.
The appointment marks a significant milestone in Aberdeen International Airport’s wider transformation plans, which will see most retail and food & beverage units refreshed or redeveloped over the next 16 months as part of one of the most ambitious commercial upgrade programmes undertaken at the airport in recent years.
This retail transformation forms a key strand of AGS Reimagined, AGS Airports’ long‑term vision to create modern, sustainable and passenger‑centred airports across Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton, and reflects a strong vote of confidence in the north‑east of Scotland’s connectivity, tourism and business markets.
Portland Design was selected following a competitive tender process to partner with Aberdeen International Airport in establishing a clear vision for the future retail proposition. The team has since developed a comprehensive set of Retail Design Guidelines that will underpin more than £2.5m of planned investment across the terminal estate.
The guidelines will ensure all new retail and F&B developments reflect the airport’s values, deliver a strong sense of place, and enhance the overall passenger experience, while also supporting long‑term commercial performance and partner success.
By drawing on customer feedback, demographic insights and regional identity, Portland has created a design framework that celebrates the character of Aberdeen and the wider north‑east of Scotland. The approach ensures that future commercial developments are locally grounded, contemporary and aligned with evolving passenger expectations.
The guidelines set out a consistent design approach for all commercial operators, ensuring improved visibility, intuitive layouts and high‑quality environments that support increased dwell time, brand differentiation and overall commercial yield.
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.”
Graham Needham, Associate Director at Portland Design, said: “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 Retail Design Guidelines now form a core element of Aberdeen International Airport’s commercial strategy, ensuring that all future partners contribute to a cohesive, high‑quality environment that enhances the passenger journey, supports regional identity, and maximises the long‑term value of a multimillion‑pound investment in the airport’s future.