THE opening of the first duty free store at Teesside Airport in eight years is just weeks away, as pictures reveal the progress so far.
Airport bosses have confirmed the brand new 'World Duty Free' in the departure lounge of the terminal building is likely to open by Christmas.
It follows on from an extensive, multi-million pound refit which saw major changes to areas including check-in, security, departure gates and even, the addition of a restaurant.
Read more: Pictures show how Teesside Airport is becoming unrecognisable in major refit
In an update bosses said retail staff had arrived on site for training as the chain-duty free store was nearing the completion of its main fixtures and fittings.
Teesside Airport has signed a 12-year-old deal with World Duty Free to run the store, which will stock perfume, cosmetics, confectionery, luxury goods and alcohol.
The chain has more than 20 stores nationwide at locations including Newcastle Airport, Leeds Bradford and Manchester Airport.
Read more: How impressive ROOFTOP viewing platform at Teesside Airport will look
The majority of the work has been completed by a number of businesses based in the Tees Valley including Darlington firms, Whartons Construction and S&I Structures.
Pictures this week revealed how the 1,860 sq ft area is taking shape and almost ready to see shelves, tills and equipment installed.
The Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen described the opening of World Duty Free at Teesside Airport as the "final piece" of the terminal's redevelopment.
He said: “Every airport worth its salt has a Duty Free shop and now that ours is returning after eight years, in a long-term deal with World Duty Free, it feels like the final piece of the terminal redevelopment puzzle is slotting into place.
“This has seen nine good-quality jobs created for local people, and training started last month so that they can provide the friendly and efficient service that our airport has been praised for.
As we’ve done at every stage of our transformation, we’ve been supporting local businesses too, and 85 percent of the work on this store has been carried out by local firms.
Read more: First look as Duncan Bannatyne unveils plans for new £100k spa at Teesside Airport
“We’re now hoping to throw the doors open before Christmas so passengers can pick up all of their duty-free favourites ahead of the big day.”
Duncan Bannatyne recently unveiled plans to open a venue within the terminal building at a cost of more than £100,000.
The Dragons' Den star and owner of Darlington-headquartered Bannatyne Group said an "express" version of the brand would offer massages, treatments and pedicures.
Meanwhile, it was recently confirmed that a 'Sky Bar' and viewing platform on the terminal roof would be set to open next year.
At the time Tom Harrison, Associate Director at Corstorphine & Wright Architects - which is undertaking the design work - said: “This is another exciting and different project we’re proud to be working on for Teesside Airport.
"We know how popular the old viewing platform has been over the years and we’re working hard to get this right, with the perfect elevation so people can enjoy uninterrupted views of the aircraft.
"We’re confident our plans will get even more people flocking to see the aircraft whether they are travelling or not.”
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