Blueprint Analysis: AI transforms airport shopping by 2030

“AI is the ultimate game changer in travel retail; it will fundamentally transform the airport shopping experience” says Blueprint Partner Thomas Kaneko Henningsen

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is “the ultimate game changer in travel retail; it will fundamentally transform the airport shopping experience”. That’s according to Blueprint Partner Thomas Kaneko Henningsen.

A Blueprint analysis notes the global AI market is projected to generate US$1,811,75 billion by 2030 and McKinsey estimates AI could generate between US$400 – 660 billion annually for retail and consumer goods companies by 2030.

Digitalization has already transformed how travelers shop. The combination of ecommerce leveraging intelligent product search engines together with smartphones equipped with AI have become global shopping platforms available 24/7. This fast-paced tech development threatens airport shopping unless this marketplace evolves. In the unique airport environment, AI’s potential is unprecedented, according to Blueprint.

The Copenhagen-based travel retail consultancy tracks how global megatrends including AI technology, Gen Z, experience-driven shopping, wellness and wellbeing, sustainability and geopolitics transform the travel retail marketplace.

Why AI Matters Now

AI is no longer an evolution; it is a revolution. The technology is accelerating faster than most anticipated. Today’s AI systems now analyze and predict consumer behavior in real-time, unlocking new levels of agility and relevance in the airport experience space.

According to Forbes traditional consumer behavior is shifting dramatically as AI-powered shopping is on the rise:

• 51% of global shoppers now use AI for price checking, 45% for product inquiries, and 41% for budget shopping.

• 86% of adults worldwide want AI to help with product research or information.

• In 2024, over 91% of global shoppers expected AI to personalize recommendations within the next two years.

• 34 million AI-generated images created daily.

• 71% of social media images are now AI-generated.

As these trends converge, Blueprint predicts a dramatic increase in AI powered influencers and avatars becoming a powerful new layer of airport shopping the coming years. They won’t just promote products; they will engage travelers personally, speaking their language, understanding their preferences, and guiding them through tailored experiences in real time. Imagine arriving at an airport where a digital brand ambassador greets you, helps you navigate the terminal environment while suggesting the perfect gifts for your destination.

This is already emerging: during the global pandemic Incheon Airport pressed ahead with AI, biometrics and technology-driven operational efficiency, Munich Airport pioneers the digital travel experience including autonomous robotics while L’Oréal has partnered with Nvidia to leverage AI-powered marketing campaigns and 3D product visualization.

What today feels experimental will soon feel essential, transforming airports into stages where digital personalities build emotional equity, inspire purchases, and make shopping feel less transactional and more connected.

Predictive Power: AI Understands the Airport Shopper

AI profiles shoppers in real-time. By analyzing flight data, nationality, dwell time and more, retailers may predict what traveler profiles want before they even step into the airport terminal. As travelers enter shopping areas, AI enables sentiment and emotion analysis; gauging mood, whether the traveler is satisfied, rushed, relaxed, or ready to indulge, providing retailers with enhanced insight into potential to spend.

ARI, one of the world’s most dynamic travel retailers, is taking strides is this space, with some major projects underway to integrate AI to enhance functionality and efficiencies. The aim is to establish an “AI center of excellence” to drive this forward in business operations.