The passenger experience takes a step up at Vilnius Airport (VNO) in Lithuania with the inauguration this week of a new 3,000 square meter commercial space—VNO Plaza—housing what is claimed to be the biggest duty-free shop in the Baltic States.

The EUR15 million (USD17.2 million) renovation of the former departures terminal is a significant step in the modernization of VNO. Operator, Lithuanian Airports (LTOU), said the revamp “will improve the travel experience, allow more efficient passenger flows, and ensure smoother airport operations.”

Customer experience (CX)—most visible via a fully revamped duty-free offer operated by Gebr. Heinemann—is a priority. Higher standards and new shops are expected to grow commercial revenue and help maintain the airport’s competitiveness. As well as Heinemann, several other retail and catering operators will be present.

Simonas Bartkus, CEO of Lithuanian Airports, said: “We are opening a new center of attraction for passengers—VNO Plaza. Modern interiors, natural light, new brands and a significantly expanded offering will meet the needs of customers and contribute to a great travel experience.”

Commercial Revenue to Subsidize Airport Charges

Valdas Benkunskas, the City Mayor of Vilnius, added: “An extensive network of flights is inseparable from increasing the city’s competitiveness.” Vilnius has been implementing a direct-flights programme for several years to help establish new connectivity and strengthen the city’s ties with key economic and business centers.

During the year-long reconstruction of the first stage revamp, water supply, electrical installation, ventilation, heating solutions, security, and sound systems were also overhauled. The roof of the terminal was renovated so more daylight could enter. Further works will improve the non-Schengen areas, and Heinemann will open its non-Schengen shop when that space is completed.

The new duty-free store is operated by Heinemann through its subsidiary Travel Retail Vilnius, and is 55% larger than the old one, occupying 1,300 square meters. It is at the heart of VNO Plaza and houses a significantly expanded range of Lithuanian products, from food and beverages to textiles and perfumery.

Travelers will also find an expanded range of niche perfumery, an increasingly popular category. Another new feature is a ‘zoned music’ concept designed to enhance the overall shopping atmosphere and create a comfortable experience for passengers.

Max Heinemann, Co-CEO of Gebr. Heinemann, said: “This reopening is a strong next step to enhance the passenger experience further, and shape the future of travel retail.” Bartkus noted that Heinemann’s central location in the reconstructed departures terminal will serve more than five million passengers annually.

An Extra EUR10 Million Per Year

It is estimated that the new space will bring in about EUR10 million (USD11.6 million) annually. The extra commercial income should enable VNO to maintain low charges for airlines and remain attractive in a highly competitive European aviation market.

Some of the retail spaces, and several more brands such as Burger King and the Aspire Business Lounge, are scheduled to open this summer. Much of the F&B offer is operated by SSP: the Sodai Le Grand Comptoir unit marks the company’s sixth location at VNO. Elena Heiska, Managing Director at SSP Finland & Baltics, commented: “Sodai brings the essence of Lithuanian cuisine to travelers and reinforces our commitment to creating authentic dining experiences.”

In the first five months of this year, Vilnius Airport served more than two million passengers, almost 10% more than in the same period in 2025. Each month set an all-time record, helped by the arrival of new airlines and the return of popular routes.