Lotte Duty Free announced on June 4 that it opened a Gentle Monster store at Kansai International Airport's International Departure Area on June 2. [Photo= Lotte Duty Free]
Lotte Duty Free has opened a Gentle Monster store, marking the first of its kind in Japan's duty-free sector.
The store was launched on June 2 in the International Departure Area of Kansai International Airport's Terminal 1, as announced on June 4.
This location is designed as a sensory space that goes beyond mere product sales, themed around the exploration of the human inner self.
Large artistic objects are strategically placed throughout the store to capture the attention of travelers. A star-shaped installation at the entrance creates an ambiance reminiscent of morning sunlight, symbolizing the shining hearts and individuality of humanity.
Notably, three giant head kinetic sculptures inside the store feature expressions of deep contemplation and moving eyes, artistically representing human thoughts and emotions, providing visitors with visual inspiration and a unique shopping experience.
The opening of Gentle Monster is expected to create strategic synergy with the recent major expansion of Kansai International Airport, which served approximately 25.72 million passengers last year, making it the largest international airport in the Kansai region. Following a recent four-phase renovation, the airport's annual international capacity has been expanded to 40 million passengers.
Lotte Duty Free first entered the Japanese duty-free market in 2014 and currently operates high-end jewelry brands such as Bulgari and Chaumet.
As travel demand continues to recover, interest in eyewear is also on the rise. From January to May of this year, Lotte Duty Free's eyewear category sales increased by approximately 26% compared to the same period last year.
The opening of Gentle Monster comes amid a clear trend of increasing demand for sunglasses and glasses during travel.
A representative from Lotte Duty Free stated, "We will continue to attract differentiated brands and engage in space marketing to provide the best shopping experience for travelers worldwide, further solidifying our position in the global duty-free market."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.