Duty-free stores take drubbing amid epidemic

Airport passengers averse to crowds, handling merchandise for safety sake

The duty-free retailing sector, which has netted significant revenue in recent years, has nevertheless been suffering in the wake of the novel coronavirus epidemic. The decline of flights has caused a huge drop in international passenger flow at airports in China and elsewhere.

Chinese international travelers, who usually spend big on products like cosmetics, perfumes, bags and accessories from airport duty-free shops, have largely canceled trips or opted to avoid shopping as they try their best to steer clear of crowds and the risk of infection.

US cosmetics brand Estee Lauder Companies Inc, which owns top brands such as La Mer, Jo Malone, Clinique and Tom Ford, launched promotional sales at some duty-free airport venues in China last month. Consumers will be able to enjoy up to 40 percent discounts off original prices.