We are not afraid to make controversial claims. Here’s one: Extended layovers in airline travel can be amazing and wonderful. There are few simple pleasures in life greater than a layover in a really interesting international airport. If you plan your flightpath just right, you can spend a few hours wandering around the Turkish airport, buying artisan ceramics and drinking a cup of coffee. Or you could wile away your time in Switzerland, collecting wooden figurines and chocolate.

Once Germany completes its expansion of the Frankfurt Airport, the new Terminal 3 promises to represent yet another semi-destination and hub for shoppers and diners. The airport renovation ranks as the most expensive privately financed airport project in Europe, with a total cost of around $4.2 billion. To earn back this investment and make the endeavor economically viable as soon as possible, airport managers have awarded dining contracts to two retailers.

The Swiss company Avolta will receive 12 locations in Terminal 3, with plans to open a Sophia Loren–themed restaurant and Brot. by Axel Schmitt, which blends the master baker’s specialty pastries with his love of heavy metal. Meanwhile, the French company Lagardère will introduce 10 locations, including Neni Deli, a Tel Aviv–inspired, Mediterranean menu designed exclusively for the airport.

Efforts to market the other retail spaces in the new terminal are achieving their goals as well. A total of 65 storefronts, covering 130,000 square feet, are available to be awarded. The duty-free space spans 65,000 square feet and will specialize in premium goods to tempt wealthy international passengers.

If all goes according to plan, the Frankfurt Airport will open Terminal 3 in the summer of 2026. It promises to serve up to 19 million travelers at once, all of whom can enjoy the wonder of a nice, long layover in a distinctive shopping and dining hub.

Discussion Questions 

1. Do you find the shopping and dining options at any airport enjoyable?
2. Which unique services, other than traditional offerings, might airports install and provide to attract more customers? What would be something you would be willing to pay a premium to obtain while waiting for your next flight?

Sources: “Avolta Expands Presence at Frankfurt Airport,” Avolta, January 22, 2025; Kevin Rozario, “Two Retailers Win Dining Contracts at Europe’s Biggest Airport Project,” Forbes, January 23, 2025; Vedat Ozgur Tore, “Avolta to Open 12 F&B Stores in Frankfurt Airport’s New Terminal,” FTN News, January 23, 2025