ADAC wins best airport operator of the year award

Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) has received the highest accolade from the global duty free industry by winning the Frontier Award for Best Airport Operator of the Year 2012 in a ceremony held recently at the Martinez Hotel in Cannes, France. The Frontier Awards are best known as the Oscars' of the travel-retail industry and the award ceremony is held annually at the Tax Free World Exhibition in Cannes, which attracts over 6,000 visitors from around the world. The Best Airport Operator of the year category recognises the work done by airport operators to facilitate and develop commercial business opportunities. The judging panel is made up of eight senior industry executives from brand management, retail and airport management. The entries were judged on a number of criteria, including: overall commercial mix; openness of the airport authority to work with all parties to maximize revenue and consumer satisfaction; design and environment of the commercial area; and, commitment to the overall duty free industry and to addressing the issues in which it faces. Commenting on the award, ADAC Chairman, Ali Majed Al Mansoori, said "Winning Best Airport Operator of the Year for 2012 clearly demonstrates ADAC's commitment to always strive for excellence and to maximise all revenue opportunities whilst ensuring that the company continues to deliver a world class customer experience. This award is also a strong reflection of the ongoing support and vision ADAC receives from the Government of Abu Dhabi and the hard work of its dedicated employees." A short list of three nominations from multiple entries was established, and in the end, the judges voted for ADAC.