Growth of Indian Travel Retail: Insights from Industry Leaders at AMRPL and MTRPL

Growth of Indian Travel Retail: Insights from Industry Leaders at AMRPL and MTRPL

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 13, 2024

The Indian travel retail industry has emerged as one of the most dynamic and fast-paced sectors, driven by high tourism, a significant number of Indians traveling to international destinations, expanding airport infrastructures, a steady rise in disposable income due to increasing urbanization, the growth of leisure and business travel, and evolving consumer preferences favoring on-the-go shopping. Collaborative alliances between luxury and premium brands also present a promising opportunity within the travel retail sector. All these factors directly and indirectly influence the market's growth.

While we've seen a surge in the travel retail segment in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, cities like Lucknow and Ahmedabad are also experiencing significant growth. In addition, a number of stores have been launched in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, such as Guwahati and Jaipur, in recent months. These cities are also benefiting from the same factors driving growth in larger cities.

Moreover, the growth of e-commerce and digital platforms has integrated seamlessly with the travel retail sector, offering travelers a convenient way to shop for their favorite brands and products online and collect them at the airport. This omnichannel approach has further boosted the market, making it easier for consumers to engage in travel retail. The increasing number of international flights and improved airport facilities in these emerging cities are also contributing to the expansion of the travel retail sector in India.

Insights from Industry Leaders

To gain a deeper understanding of this dynamic sector, we reached out to industry leaders from AMRPL (April Moon Retail Pvt. Ltd) and MTRPL (Mumbai Travel Retail Private Limited).

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Gaurav Singh, CEO of AMRPL, shared his thoughts on the market's growth:

"At AMRPL, we are witnessing a remarkable shift in consumer behavior, with travelers increasingly seeking premium and exclusive products. Our concept stores, such as Vue De Luxe at Lucknow and Ahmedabad Airports, and Bon Voyage & Meridiem at Lucknow Airport, are designed to cater to these evolving preferences. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the potential of travel retail in both major and emerging cities."

Avishek Bambi Das, CEO of MTRPL, highlighted the collaborative strengths of their joint venture:

"MTRPL, a collaboration between Adani Airport Holdings Limited and Flemingo Travel Retail Private Limited, leverages the strengths of both parent organizations. Our extensive network and expertise in duty-free retail enable us to offer a unique shopping experience to travelers. The growth in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities is particularly exciting, as it opens up new opportunities for us to expand our footprint and serve a broader audience."

The Future of Travel Retail in India

The Indian travel retail industry is poised for significant growth, with major investments in airport infrastructure and a focus on enhancing the traveler experience. The integration of digital platforms with traditional retail models is likely to play a crucial role in this evolution, offering convenience and accessibility to a wider range of consumers.

As the industry continues to evolve, collaborations between luxury brands and travel retail companies will be key to driving innovation and meeting the demands of discerning travelers. The insights from leaders at AMRPL and MTRPL underscore the importance of staying ahead of consumer trends and leveraging strategic partnerships to succeed in this competitive market.

The future of travel retail in India looks promising, with sustained growth expected in both major metropolitan areas and emerging cities. As the sector expands, it will continue to contribute significantly to the country's economy, offering travelers an unparalleled shopping experience.


IndiGo Launches Direct Flights Between Delhi and Manchester

IndiGo Launches Direct Flights Between Delhi and Manchester

By Hariharan U

Published on November 19, 2025

IndiGo, India’s preferred airline, has launched direct flights between Delhi and Manchester, starting 15th November 2025. This follows the airline’s successful first long-haul route connecting Mumbai to Manchester earlier this year.

The new 5x weekly service is operated on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, leased from Norse Atlantic Airways. The plane offers a two-class cabin with 56 IndiGoStretch seats and 282 Economy Class seats, ensuring comfort for long-haul travellers.

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), one of India’s top global gateways, now hosts IndiGo’s long-haul operations from the capital. On the UK side, Manchester Airport serves as a key hub, providing easy connections to Northern English cities including Leeds, Liverpool, and Newcastle.

By linking Delhi and Manchester, IndiGo aims to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between India and the UK, making international travel faster and more convenient.

Flight Schedule (Effective 15 November 2025)

Delhi to Manchester

  • Flight No.: 6E 0033

  • Days: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday

  • Departure: 04:05 (local time)

  • Arrival: 09:30 (local time)

Manchester to Delhi

  • Flight No.: 6E 0034

  • Days: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

  • Departure: 11:15 (local time)

  • Arrival: 02:10 (+1, next day)

Note: All timings are in local time zones; +1 indicates arrival the next day.

About IndiGo
IndiGo is India’s preferred carrier and one of the fastest-growing airlines globally. Focused on affordability, punctuality, and hassle-free travel, the airline operates 2,300+ daily flights across 90+ domestic and 40+ international destinations. With a fleet of over 400 aircraft, IndiGo inducted 58 aircraft in 2024 and served 118 million passengers in FY25. It was also named ‘Best Airline in India and South Asia’ by Skytrax at the 2025 World Airline Awards.

For more details, visit www.goindigo.in or download the IndiGo mobile app.


Cox & Kings Unveils ‘Winter Tales of Europe’ as Indians Choose Offbeat Winter Destinations

Cox & Kings Unveils ‘Winter Tales of Europe’ as Indians Choose Offbeat Winter Destinations

By Hariharan U

Published on November 19, 2025

As Europe settles into its most scenic season, Indian travellers are increasingly looking beyond the usual winter hotspots. This year, Central and Eastern Europe have become strong favourites, leading Cox & Kings to introduce its new ‘Winter Tales of Europe’ collection. The series focuses on handpicked journeys through quieter, cultural, and lesser-explored regions, offering an intimate view of Europe away from the typical tourist trails.

Booking patterns show a clear trend: places like Croatia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Hungary, and Bulgaria are seeing higher demand among Indian travellers. These destinations offer a mix of heritage, calm winter beauty, and good value. From snow-covered old towns to peaceful mountains and festive markets without long queues, the region appeals to travellers seeking a more soulful winter holiday.

The new itineraries, ‘Eastern Wonders: A Winter Tale’, ‘Essence of Europe: Winter Journey’, and ‘Passionate Europe: A Winter Tale’, have been curated to highlight the slower and more immersive side of Europe. While winter does bring affordability with airfares and stays dropping up to 40% across Europe between November and March, Cox & Kings says the real focus is on meaningful experiences rather than seasonal discounts.

"There's a kind of quiet grandeur to Europe in winter especially in the regions that aren't yet overrun by tourism," says Karan Agarwal, Director, Cox & Kings. "Our Winter Tales itineraries bring that to life for travellers who want to go beyond the obvious and experience Europe as it truly feels to locals."

The Winter Tales series is open to a wide range of travellers: families looking for festive breaks, honeymooners, solo travellers joining group departures, senior explorers, and all-women groups under Cox & Kings’ Group Inclusive Tours (GIT) format. There is also flexibility for travellers who prefer independent travel, as the itineraries can be customised. Bookings for these journeys remain open until mid-March 2026.

About Cox & Kings
Cox & Kings is the world’s first and one of the most iconic travel houses, with a legacy of over 260 years. Established in 1758, it has been a pioneer in global travel across leisure, business, and specialised segments. Known for its deep expertise and curated experiences, the brand continues to guide generations of travellers with a blend of tradition, innovation, and customer-first hospitality.


Andaman Tourism to Host ‘Island Trekking Festival’ at Mount Manipur on November 15

Andaman Tourism to Host ‘Island Trekking Festival’ at Mount Manipur on November 15

By MAnu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 16, 2025

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands government is set to host an ‘Island Trekking Festival’ at Mount Manipur on November 15, aiming to promote eco-adventure tourism and encourage local youth participation. Organised by the Tourism Department with support from the Environment and Forests Department and MY Bharat, the event highlights the islands’ natural beauty and historical legacy.

A tourism department official stated that the festival seeks to inspire youth to take up eco-guiding and adventure guiding as viable paths for self-employment, aligning with the administration’s vision of sustainable tourism development. Participation will be limited to 50 individuals, including local youth, trekking enthusiasts, tour operators, and tourists. The first 50 registered participants will be selected for the trek, and all will receive participation certificates from the Tourism Department.

Mount Manipur, formerly known as Mount Harriet, is the third-highest peak in the Andaman archipelago and one of its most scenic and historically significant trekking routes. The site carries deep historical importance, following the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, Maharaja Kulachandra Singh and 22 freedom fighters were exiled to the Andaman Islands.

To honour their bravery, Union Home Minister Amit Shah renamed Mount Harriet as Mount Manipur during his 2021 visit to the islands. In recognition of this history, the Tourism Department chose the location as the venue for the Island Trekking Festival, merging adventure with remembrance.

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