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DFS Group
DFS Group
DFS Group
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DFS Group (DFS) (Chinese: 迪斐世) is a global travel retailer of luxury products based in Hong Kong. Established in 1960, its global network consists of stores located in major global airports and downtown locations featuring over 750 brands.[2][3] It is privately held and majority owned by the luxury conglomerate Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH), alongside DFS co-founder and shareholder Robert Warren Miller. As of January 11, 1997, DFS Group operates as a subsidiary of LVMH.[4] DFS is headquartered in Hong Kong SAR.

Key Information

History

[edit]

Beginnings

[edit]

In 1960, American entrepreneurs Charles Feeney[5] and Robert Warren Miller[6] founded Tourists International, which later became Duty Free Shoppers (DFS), in Hong Kong. In 1962, two DFS stores were opened at the international airports in Hong Kong and Honolulu, the first duty-free shop in the United States.[7]

Expansion

[edit]

In the 1960s and 1970s DFS Group significantly expanded their operation in Pacific Islands and North America. DFS capitalized on the rising wave of Asian tourists who began to travel further overseas, opening stores in international airports and later in downtown locations where travelers have their purchases delivered before departure.[8] In 1968, DFS opened its first downtown duty-free store in Kowloon, Hong Kong, followed shortly thereafter by Honolulu and eventually expanding to 14 locations all over the world.[9]

Acquisition

[edit]

In 1996, LVMH acquired the majority share of DFS Group,[10] buying out partners Feeney, Parker, and Pilaro and setting a new focus on the combined elements of travel and luxury.[11] It developed a merchandising strategy based around five core categories – Beauty and Fragrances; Fashion and Accessories; Watches and Jewelry; Wines and Spirits; and Food and Gifts. In 2004, the company moved its headquarters to Hong Kong from San Francisco, California as part of a corporate restructure.

Reinventing Luxury

[edit]

In 2009, DFS launched the prestigious “Masters Collection” program, showcasing its passion curation of rare and collector products, as well as immersive experiences, with the first-ever Masters of Time event in Macau.

DFS T Galleria in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

In 2005, branded halls opened in Okinawa, Japan, launching a new shop-in-shop concept for DFS downtown stores. In 2008, DFS opened its airport store in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, enabling DFS to serve travelers heading from Asia to Europe. DFS opens stores in Macau in the same year.

In 2013 DFS undertook a major branding initiative setting the stage for the next generation of expansion. It re-branded its downtown Galleria Stores “T Galleria” and moved to a strategy of localization for airports, working with local suppliers to increase its mix of “destination” products.[12][2] In 2015 it launched T Galleria Beauty by DFS, a standalone beauty concept store in Hong Kong and Macau.[13]

In 2016 DFS expanded its operations, opening a significantly extended space at T Galleria by DFS, City of Dreams in Macau,[14] and its first European store, T Fondaco dei Tedeschi in Venice, Italy.

DFS T Galleria in City of Dreams, Macau

2020 – Present

[edit]

In 2022, DFS opened its first "Resort Galleria" concept at DFS Queenstown in New Zealand and its eighth store in Macau at The Londoner Macao with unique Londoner-themed accents and an extensive assortment of Kids Fashion & Toys.

In 2023, DFS opened its first China domestic airport store at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport. In the same year, DFS launched a new global loyalty program, DFS CIRCLE, and introduced its new Chinese name: 迪斐世. DFS launched the Beauty Collective concept at DFS Hong Kong, Causeway Bay. Additionally, DFS announced the opening of its first world-class, seven-star luxury retail and entertainment destination in Sanya, China by 2026.

In 2024, DFS transitioned from T Galleria towards a singular DFS brand identity for its airport and downtown stores. DFS opened DFS Macau, M8 in the revitalized retail cultural destination within the UNESCO Historic Centre of Macao, where the first private label concept brand DISTRICT BY DFS, was launched.

In July 2025 it was announced that as part of a restructuring DFS would exit Oceania.[15] DFS Groups share in La Samaritaine were sold back to LVMH in February 2025.[16]

Products By Category

[edit]

DFS carries five core brand categories:

  • Beauty & Fragrances
  • Fashion & Accessories
  • Watches & Jewelry
  • Wines & Spirits
  • Food & Gifts

Leadership

[edit]

CEOs

[edit]
  1. Adrian Bellamy (1983–1995)[17]
  2. Myron E. Ullman (1995–1998)[18]
  3. Brian Kendrick (1998–1999)[19][20]
  4. Ed Brennan (1999–2012)[21]
  5. Philip Schaus (2012–2017)[21]
  6. Benjamin Vuchot (2020–2024)[22]
  7. Ed Brennan (2024–)[23]

Galleria locations

[edit]

T Galleria by DFS (known as DFS Galleria till 2013) is the branding used on the mid-to-large size DFS stores that are not located in airports. The format of most T Galleria locations is similar to a department store. Beauty stores also operate under the brand in Hong Kong and Macau. As of 2025 most T Galleria stores are in Macau (5 locations) and Hong Kong (2 locations).

Operating

[edit]
Name City Country Opening year Ref.
DFS Waikiki Honolulu United States 1975 [24]
DFS Guam Tumon Guam 1995 [25]
DFS Okinawa Okinawa Japan 2004 [26]
DFS Studio City Macau Macau 2015 [27]
DFS MGM Cotai Macau Macau 2018 [28]
DFS Shoppes at Londoner Macau Macau 2022 [29]
DFS Shoppes at Four Seasons Macau Macau
DFS City of Dreams Macau Macau
DFS Canton Road Hong Kong Hong Kong
DFS Tsim Sha Tsui East Hong Kong Hong Kong

Closed

[edit]
Name City Country Year opened Year closed
DFS Saipan Saipan Northern Mariana Islands 1976[30] 2025[30]
DFS Sydney Sydney Australia 1989 2025
DFS Auckland Auckland New Zealand 1990s 2025[31]
DFS Hollywood Los Angeles United States 2003[32]
DFS Gold Coast Surfers Paradise Australia 2004[33]
DFS Angkor Siem Reap Cambodia 2016[34] 2020s
T Fondaco dei Tedeschi Venice Italy 2016[35] 2025[36]
DFS Bali Kuta Indonesia 2020s
DFS Singapore Singapore Singapore 2020s
DFS Cairns Cairns Australia 1990s 2023[37]
DFS La Samaritaine Paris France 2021[38][note 1] 2025[15]
DFS Queenstown Queenstown New Zealand 2022[39] 2025

Cancelled

[edit]
Name City Country Projected opening Cancelled
DFS Queen's Wharf Brisbane Australia 2024[37] Lease terminated 2023.[40]

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

DFS Group

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
DFS Group is a Hong Kong-based luxury travel retailer specializing in duty-free shopping for international travelers, offering a curated selection of over 750 premium brands across categories including fashion, beauty, watches, jewelry, wines, spirits, and gifts. Founded in 1960 by Robert Miller and Charles Feeney, the company pioneered the modern travel retail model with its first airport store at Hong Kong's in 1961 and has since expanded into a global network of over 420 stores across approximately 13 countries and 4 continents, as of 2023, operating primarily in airports, seaports, and downtown locations. Acquired by in 1996, DFS Group operates as part of the conglomerate's Selective Retailing division, with its headquarters in , . The company emphasizes personalized shopping experiences, innovative loyalty programs like DFS CIRCLE launched in 2023, and a focus on high-end curation to cater to affluent global consumers. In 2024, DFS introduced a new and unified identity. Key expansion milestones include entering the U.S. market in 1973 with a store at and opening a flagship store in in 1975, opening its first European location in in 2016, and debuting a domestic airport store in , , in 2023. As the world's leading luxury travel retail operator, DFS Group generates significant revenue from duty-free sales, particularly in and , while adapting to evolving traveler preferences through digital enhancements and sustainable practices. Its global footprint spans major hubs such as , , Los Angeles, San Francisco, Okinawa, and , blending airport convenience with downtown prestige to deliver "Your Personal Guide to the World of Luxury."

History

Founding and Early Years

DFS Group was founded on November 7, 1960, by American entrepreneurs and Charles Feeney. Initially operating under the name Tourists International, the company targeted international travelers by offering tax-exempt goods, marking a pioneering in travel retail that transformed shopping into a convenient source for luxury and everyday items. Tourists International won the bid for a duty-free concession and opened its first airport store at Hong Kong's in 1961. This venture capitalized on Hong Kong's status as a bustling international hub, providing shoppers with savings on imports unavailable or expensive in their home countries. The initial centered on duty-free sales of , , perfumes, and souvenirs, appealing directly to departing passengers seeking affordable, high-quality products. Early operations also included sales of foreign-made cars to American military personnel stationed in , though the focus quickly shifted to airport concessions as the core of the model. By emphasizing personalized service and a curated selection of Western merchandise, DFS differentiated itself in an era when international travel was expanding rapidly, particularly among affluent tourists from and the . Early growth was concentrated in the region, with the opening of a second store at International Airport in 1962, which became the first in the United States. This expansion capitalized on Hawaii's popularity as a stopover for transpacific flights, drawing Japanese group tours eager for tax-free purchases. By the late , DFS had extended to major airports including , with further expansion to in the early , solidifying its foothold in key corridors and leveraging the surge in outbound from following the easing of restrictions in 1964. These foundational milestones established DFS as a leader in duty-free retail, revolutionizing how travelers accessed by integrating convenience, variety, and savings into the airport experience.

Global Expansion

During the , DFS Group intensified its presence in , building on earlier footholds to capitalize on the growing influx of international tourists, particularly from . The company opened stores at in 1972. A retail flagship store in downtown opened in late 2000 but closed after little more than a year, unable to attract sufficient domestic shoppers. Concurrently, DFS developed its downtown Galleria formats in key tourist destinations like , where it had established an early presence with the Waikiki Square store in 1975 but expanded operations in the to include larger, more experiential retail spaces targeting high-end consumers. These moves emphasized airport concessions alongside urban locations to diversify revenue streams and enhance accessibility for duty-free luxury purchases. The company's global scaling extended beyond North America into other regions during the late 1960s and early 1990s, with new concessions in and to attract Japanese honeymooners and tourists, as well as further growth in Pacific locales like and Saipan. By the early 1990s, DFS had established a network emphasizing and tourist hotspot operations across , the Pacific, and , reaching over 150 stores worldwide by the mid-1990s through strategic partnerships with travel agencies and authorities. This operational expansion focused on high-traffic sites, enabling DFS to serve millions of international passengers annually while navigating competitive challenges, such as rival duty-free openings in during the early 1980s. A pivotal development in this period was the refinement of DFS's multi-brand luxury retail model, which solidified its position as a one-stop destination for premium duty-free goods. The company partnered with iconic luxury houses like and to offer exclusive selections of watches, jewelry, , and perfumes, curating assortments that appealed to discerning travelers seeking tax-free savings on high-margin items. This approach, honed through and formats, differentiated DFS from single-brand outlets and drove customer loyalty among global elites. By 1995, these diversified strategies across varied locations had propelled DFS to an annual sales milestone of approximately $3 billion, underscoring the scale of its international footprint and the profitability of its tourist-centric model prior to economic shifts in .

Acquisition by

In 1996, Moët () acquired a majority stake of 58.75% in DFS Group for $2.47 billion from co-founders Charles Feeney and , marking the French luxury conglomerate's strategic entry into the burgeoning retail sector. This move positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for duty-free among international travelers, leveraging DFS's established network of and downtown stores. Robert Miller, a key investor and co-owner, retained his 38.75% stake amid initial opposition to the deal, preserving a significant in the company. The transaction encountered regulatory challenges, including a mandatory antitrust review by the U.S. under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act, initiated in December 1996, due to concerns over potential impacts on suppliers. Additionally, protests from and another minority owner prompted , but a ruling in late December 1996 overruled these objections, clearing the path for to gain control. The acquisition was finalized on January 12, 1997, granting operational oversight while allowing DFS to maintain independent management in the short term. Immediately following the acquisition, DFS benefited from enhanced access to LVMH's prestigious portfolio of luxury brands, such as and , enabling exclusive distribution opportunities in its duty-free outlets and strengthening product assortments for high-end travelers. This integration facilitated early synergies, including streamlined supply chain coordination for luxury items across global locations. Post-acquisition, DFS was incorporated into LVMH's Selective Retailing division, which amplified operational efficiencies and aligned DFS more closely with LVMH's worldwide luxury ecosystem.

Brand Evolution and Reinvention

In the early 2000s, DFS Group underwent a significant operational shift by relocating its headquarters from to in 2004, a move designed to better align the company with its growing emphasis on the market and capitalize on emerging opportunities in . This relocation supported a broader corporate that positioned DFS closer to its key customer base and supply chains in the region. During the 2010s, DFS Group launched its "Reinventing Luxury" strategy, a decade-long initiative aimed at transforming the travel retail experience through immersive and customer-centric approaches. This period saw the company prioritize experiential retail by integrating cultural events, personalized services, and digital technologies to create more engaging environments for luxury consumers. For instance, DFS introduced concepts like the "Beauty Collective," which enhanced personalization through tailored consultations and interactive displays, while digital tools bridged in-store and online interactions to streamline customer journeys. These efforts drew on synergies with to elevate DFS's positioning within the global luxury ecosystem. A key component of this reinvention was the development of T Galleria stores as flagship downtown destinations for multi-brand luxury shopping, moving beyond traditional airport retail to urban experiential hubs. The Canton Road T Galleria, for example, spans five floors dedicated to high-end , , and accessories from over 700 , featuring renovated spaces with enhanced services like private salons and cultural pop-ups to attract affluent travelers. This format emphasized curation and storytelling, positioning T Galleria as a seamless extension of DFS's operations in prime locations. In 2024, DFS Group further streamlined its identity by transitioning from the "T Galleria by DFS" branding to a unified "DFS" name across both airport and downtown stores, accompanied by a new logo to foster a consistent global image. This rebranding reflected ongoing efforts to modernize the company's visual and operational presence while maintaining its focus on luxury travel retail.

Post-Pandemic Recovery (2020–Present)

The severely impacted DFS Group in 2020, as global travel restrictions led to widespread store closures and a sharp decline in revenue. Most DFS locations, particularly in high-traffic destinations like and , were shuttered for several months, resulting in a 30% organic revenue drop for the Selective Retailing division, which is predominantly driven by DFS operations. To mitigate losses, the company accelerated its sales channels and introduced new services tailored for local customers, including virtual experiences and limited pop-up formats where feasible. Following the initial crisis, DFS Group's recovery strategies from 2021 onward emphasized gradual reopening with stringent health protocols, such as enhanced sanitation, measures, and capacity limits, to ensure safe operations amid ongoing restrictions. The company prioritized high-traffic locations like and , where stores were among the first to resume activities after short closures, capitalizing on regional domestic travel rebounds. By mid-2021, these efforts contributed to a stabilization in Selective Retailing revenues, with organic growth turning positive in key Asian markets as borders began to ease. Between 2023 and 2025, DFS Group advanced its recovery through targeted luxury initiatives, including the 14th edition of its Masters of Time exhibition in December 2023 at the Shoppes at Four Seasons in , which showcased over 300 exclusive timepieces and fine jewelry pieces from more than 45 prestigious houses. In 2025, amid persistent challenges from subdued international tourism, the company announced comprehensive cost-cutting programs, including operational streamlining and the closure of underperforming sites like the Galleria and an exit from with closures in (September 10, 2025), , and Queenstown (September 30, 2025), aimed at reducing losses and approaching profitability. These measures, supported by parent company LVMH's strategic oversight, led to sequential loss reductions in 2025, bolstered by an ongoing global travel rebound that improved footfall in core locations such as and .

Business Operations

Store Formats

DFS Group's primary retail format encompasses airport duty-free stores, which form the foundation of its operations since the company's in 1960. These outlets are strategically positioned in major international airports worldwide, catering to time-constrained travelers with efficient, quick-service concessions offering such as , products, watches, and accessories at tax-free prices. Customers must present a valid to qualify for duty-free purchases, with items often collected directly at the airport terminal for seamless convenience. Complementing the airport model, DFS operates downtown T Galleria stores in prominent tourist hubs, designed as expansive, multi-level experiential retail spaces that encourage leisurely exploration. Resembling upscale department stores, these locations feature open layouts with boutique-style sections, lounge areas, and event spaces to foster immersive brand interactions and personalized shopping services. Unlike stores, T Gallerias provide duty-free options via refunds or procedures for eligible international shoppers and do not require a at purchase, attracting both tourists and locals (who may pay full ). To adapt to evolving traveler preferences, DFS has introduced hybrid and emerging formats that integrate physical and digital elements. Pop-up installations deliver temporary, themed luxury experiences in high-traffic areas, while platforms allow customers to browse and reserve items via the DFS or app for convenient pickup at airport stores. Additionally, integrated resort locations, such as those within the City of Dreams complex in , blend retail with hospitality amenities to create holistic luxury environments. Specialized concepts like Beauty Collective for skincare and fragrances, DISTRICT by DFS for lifestyle curation, and House of Jewels for fine accessories further diversify these innovative approaches, enhancing accessibility and engagement across the global network.

Product Categories

DFS Group curates an assortment of over 750 luxury brands across its product categories, tailoring selections to international travelers' preferences through tax-free , exclusive duty-free sizes, sets, and limited-edition items designed for convenience and gifting. This strategy emphasizes high-end, globally recognized names, with assortments varying by location to reflect local and cultural tastes while maintaining a core focus on premium quality and innovation in packaging for travel. In the Beauty and Fragrances category, DFS offers more than 200 brands, including iconic houses like and , alongside others such as and . The selection features premium skincare, luxury makeup, and duty-free perfumes, often in exclusive travel sizes and gift sets that cater to on-the-go lifestyles, enhancing accessibility for airport and downtown shoppers. The Fashion and Accessories category highlights leather goods, apparel, and from LVMH-owned brands such as and , complemented by non-LVMH labels like , , , and . These items are presented with an emphasis on versatile, high-fashion pieces suitable for travel, including handbags, scarves, and sunglasses in limited-edition collaborations that appeal to discerning global clientele. For Watches and Jewelry, DFS showcases high-end timepieces and fine jewelry from prestigious makers like Cartier, , and Piaget, often through curated exhibitions and multi-boutique formats. The assortment prioritizes iconic designs in precious metals and gems, with duty-free exclusives that allow travelers to acquire investment-worthy pieces at reduced prices. The Wine & Spirits, Tobacco, and Confectionery category serves as a duty-free staple, featuring fine wines from estates like Penfolds and Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite, premium spirits including Camus cognac, Hennessy, The Macallan, and Johnnie Walker, alongside tobacco brands such as Camel and gourmet confections like Cadbury chocolates. These products are selected for their aging potential and indulgent appeal, with travel-optimized packaging like mini-bottles and gift assortments to suit post-flight celebrations or souvenirs.

Global Network and Partnerships

As of 2024, DFS Group maintains a global presence in 13 countries across four continents, with strongholds in —including , , and — (primarily the ), (France and Italy), and additional markets such as and the . This network encompassed over 400 boutiques as of 2024, including duty-free stores in major airports and downtown gallerias, enabling the company to serve international travelers effectively, though recent closures such as the planned shutdown of the store in 2025 reflect ongoing adjustments. The company's operations rely on strategic partnerships with airport authorities and resort developers to secure prime locations. For instance, DFS holds concessions at and operates outlets within the Shoppes at Four Seasons in , integrating seamlessly with high-traffic travel hubs. These alliances allow DFS to offer exclusive retail experiences in key destinations, enhancing accessibility to for global visitors. Complementing its physical network, DFS employs over 5,000 staff worldwide, with headquarters in and regional offices in major hubs across , , and to support localized operations. The company also advances its digital infrastructure through the DFS CIRCLE app, a global that facilitates pre-orders, personalized memberships, and rewards, while integrating with the broader ecosystem for enhanced .

Leadership

Executive Team

The executive team at DFS Group, as of November 2025, leads the company's global operations in luxury travel retail under the oversight of its parent company, LVMH. Ed Brennan serves as Chairman and Interim Chief Executive Officer, having returned to the role effective November 1, 2024, following the departure of Benjamin Vuchot. Brennan previously held the position of Chairman and CEO from 1999 to 2012, during which he oversaw significant expansion in Asia-Pacific markets. Johan Pretorius is President of and , regions that represent key revenue-generating markets for DFS through flagship T Galleria stores and airport operations. In this capacity, Pretorius manages merchandising, store operations, and strategic partnerships in these high-traffic luxury hubs. John Sigalos acts as , responsible for overseeing global store operations, efficiency, and day-to-day execution across DFS's network of over 420 locations worldwide. His role emphasizes operational resilience in the post-pandemic retail environment. Lawrence Wei holds the position of , directing financial strategy, including cost-cutting initiatives and recovery efforts announced in 2025 to streamline operations and improve profitability amid challenging market conditions. These measures, part of broader directives, focus on reducing overhead while sustaining growth in selective retailing. The executive team reports directly to LVMH's Selective Retailing division, leveraging collective expertise in luxury travel retail to drive innovation in traveler experiences and brand partnerships.

CEOs

The CEOs of DFS Group have played pivotal roles in the company's growth as a leading luxury travel retailer, particularly following its acquisition by in . Adrian Bellamy served as CEO from 1983 to 1995, during which he oversaw the company's early global push, expanding operations across key international markets including airports and tourist destinations. Myron E. Ullman succeeded Bellamy as CEO from 1995 to 1998, managing the transition during LVMH's acquisition and integration of DFS into its luxury portfolio. Brian Kendrick held the CEO position briefly from 1998 to 1999, focusing on stabilizing operations amid the . Ed Brennan led as CEO from 1999 to 2012, driving significant expansion under ownership, including new store openings and diversification into high-end luxury offerings. Philip Schaus took over as CEO from 2012 to 2017, emphasizing digital integration to enhance customer experiences in travel retail. Benjamin Vuchot served as CEO from 2017 to 2024, navigating the onset of the and adapting operations to post-travel recovery challenges. Ed Brennan returned as interim CEO from 2024 to the present, guiding the recovery phase amid evolving luxury travel dynamics. All CEOs from onward have aligned their strategies with LVMH's focus on elevating luxury retail experiences for global travelers.

Galleria Locations

Operating Locations

DFS Group operates over 400 retail locations worldwide as of 2025, with a strategic emphasis on high-traffic tourist and transit hubs following its 2024 rebranding efforts to streamline operations and prioritize premium destinations. In the region, flagship T Galleria stores anchor the company's presence, particularly in key luxury travel markets. The DFS Hong Kong Canton Road serves as a prominent downtown multi-brand luxury outlet in , offering an extensive selection of fashion, beauty, and accessories to international visitors. In , resort-integrated sites include the DFS Macau at City of Dreams, which blends gaming and shopping experiences, and the DFS at Shoppes at Four Seasons, both catering to high-end tourists in integrated entertainment complexes. Additional T Galleria locations in , totaling five as of 2025, further strengthen this hub. North American operations center on major airports and urban gallerias, targeting trans-Pacific travelers. The DFS features duty-free outlets with luxury goods in the Tom Bradley International Terminal, while the New York T Galleria in provides a shopping experience focused on high-end brands. Other active sites include stores at and Honolulu's , emphasizing Pacific Rim connectivity. In , DFS maintains a presence in strategic transit points despite recent consolidations. The company operates duty-free stores at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, offering travelers a range of luxury items in the international terminal. Italian operations include airport locations in Milan Malpensa and Rome Fiumicino, serving as gateways for European and intercontinental flights. Elsewhere, DFS continues to serve global travelers at prominent airports. In , stores at provide duty-free luxury retail across multiple terminals, capitalizing on the hub's role in Asian connectivity. At in the UAE, DFS outlets focus on Middle Eastern and long-haul passengers with curated selections of perfumes, watches, and fashion. These locations underscore DFS's post-rebranding focus on resilient, high-volume transit environments.

Former Locations

Over the years, DFS Group has closed several Galleria and airport stores worldwide, often due to lease expirations, economic challenges, low foot traffic, or strategic consolidations to focus on higher-performing sites. These closures have been part of broader efforts to streamline operations and adapt to shifting travel patterns. In the United States, notable early 2000s closures included the flagship DFS store in downtown San Francisco, which opened with fanfare in late 2000 but closed after just over a year in 2002 due to insufficient domestic customer traffic and broader cost-cutting measures amid a post-9/11 tourism slump. Similarly, a Honolulu Galleria location was among five stores closed in 1998 as part of a restructuring response to the Asian financial crisis, which reduced tourist arrivals and led to the elimination of 300 jobs across the network. These U.S. downtown sites exemplified challenges in attracting non-traveling shoppers to luxury duty-free formats outside high-traffic airports. Pandemic-era disruptions accelerated closures, particularly in underperforming or temporarily shuttered concessions that were not reopened. In , DFS permanently exited liquor and tobacco operations at Singapore's in June 2020 after 39 years, opting not to bid on new concessions amid declining and a strategic pivot away from those categories. Several European airport concessions faced similar fates, with some smaller sites in markets like the and remaining closed post-2020 due to prolonged low traffic and failure to recover pre-pandemic volumes, tying into the company's overall post-lockdown recovery efforts. In , temporary shutdowns in early 2020 affected sites such as the T Galleria in East and the T Galleria Beauty in Moko, with seven Macau locations also closing around the same period as borders sealed and halted. More recent permanent exits include underperforming markets in , where DFS exited its operations in July 2025, closing its T Galleria stores in Auckland and Queenstown, New Zealand, as well as the Sydney, , location by September 2025, citing challenging economic conditions and a review of the global network that deemed the region unviable post-pandemic. In Saipan, both the airport store and the T Galleria in Garapan closed on April 30, 2025, as part of ongoing portfolio optimization. European closures continued with the Fondaco dei Tedeschi Galleria in , , which shuttered in September 2025 upon lease expiration, after nearly a of operation in the , due to strategic shifts toward more sustainable locations. In , the East store closed on August 31, 2025, allowing DFS to consolidate into stronger downtown flagships like Canton Road and . The company also sold its stake in Paris's department store back to parent company in February 2025. Additionally, the DFS M8 store, which debuted in September 2024 in the historic downtown district, was shuttered by June 2025 as part of retail optimization efforts. These cases highlight a pattern of exiting leases in low-traffic or economically strained areas to enhance overall network efficiency.

Planned Developments

In 2023, DFS Group announced plans to open its most ambitious project to date, the DFS Yalong Bay luxury retail and destination in , , , scheduled for completion by 2026. This 128,000-square-meter complex, developed in partnership with Shenya Group, will feature over 1,000 luxury brands, including LVMH-owned maisons, and is positioned as the world's first seven-star luxury retail and hub, aiming to attract 16 million visitors annually amid 's growing domestic and inbound . The initiative represents an unprecedented by DFS, focusing on immersive experiences and sustainable luxury consumption in one of Asia's key duty-free markets. As part of a broader announced in and continuing into , DFS has emphasized sustainable growth in high-potential Asian markets, including potential expansions to capitalize on the post-pandemic travel recovery in the region. However, specific details on new sites beyond 2025 remain undisclosed, with the company prioritizing core operations in and . This strategic shift aligns with DFS's focus on operational efficiency and long-term viability in response to global economic challenges. DFS is scheduled to close on March 31, 2026, ending luxury operations there as part of continued restructuring efforts.

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  26. https://moodiedavittreport.com/dfs-unveils-new-t-galleria-branding-at-hong-kong-downtown-stores/
  27. https://www.dfs.com/en/macau/about-store/history
  28. https://www.lvmh.com/en/publications/lvmh-showed-good-resilience-against-the-pandemic-crisis-in-2020
  29. https://moodiedavittreport.com/covid-19-update-just-one-new-case-across-greater-china-tfwa-vows-to-make-cannes-show-an-example-in-solidarity-who-warns-about-mass-gatherings/
  30. https://moodiedavittreport.com/ignite-the-moment-dfs-masters-of-time-2023-takes-luxury-showcase-legacy-to-new-level/
  31. https://moodiedavittreport.com/going-towards-break-even-but-we-are-not-there-yet-lvmh-outlines-dfs-cost-cutting-programme/
  32. https://www.lvmh.com/en/publications/solid-results-in-the-first-half-of-2025-despite-the-prevailing-environment
  33. https://moodiedavittreport.com/dfs-to-exit-oceania-with-closure-of-sydney-auckland-and-queenstown-businesses/
  34. https://wwd.com/business-news/retail/feature/dfs-rebrands-galleria-units-with-new-moniker-7129354-237173/
  35. https://www.aymericfaucheux.com/dfs-t-galleria
  36. https://www.dfs.com/
  37. https://www.dfs.com/en/new-york/what-is-happening/news/your-guide-to-shopping-online-new-york
  38. https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/t-galleria-by-dfs-city-of-dreams/
  39. https://www.dfs.com/en/san-francisco/brand/listing
  40. https://www.dfs.com/en/new-york/eshop/product-listing/category/beauty/16
  41. https://www.dfs.com/en/los-angeles/brand/listing
  42. https://retailjewellerme.com/dfs-group-unveils-its-latest-masters-series-of-jewellery-and-watches-in-macau/
  43. https://news.centurionjewelry.com/articles/detail/Cartier-opens-first-west-coast-airport-boutique-at-lax-with-dfs-group
  44. https://www.dfs.com/en/hong-kong/eshop/product-listing/category/watches-and-jewelry/6
  45. https://www.dfs.com/en/new-york/eshop/product-listing/brand/camus/1001
  46. https://www.dfnionline.com/latest-news/dfs-group-unveils-first-wines-spirits-multi-boutique-macau-05-02-2024/
  47. https://www.vogue.com/article/lvmh-owned-dfs-eyes-travel-retails-post-lockdown-future
  48. https://www.premiumbeautynews.com/en/dfs-to-close-its-iconic-department,24794
  49. https://www.dfnionline.com/latest-news/dfs-remains-committed-to-hong-kong-market-14-08-2025/
  50. https://pitchbook.com/profiles/company/150867-91
  51. https://www.dfs.com/en/los-angeles/dfs-circle-app-los-angeles
  52. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/dfs-group-limited_lvmh-and-the-dfs-group-announce-that-the-activity-7250438121723469824-FsAs
  53. https://luxus-plus.com/en/dfs-brings-ed-brennan-back-to-management/
  54. https://www.dfs.com/en/macau/corporate-leadership
  55. https://hk.linkedin.com/in/john-sigalos-333s999
  56. https://www.nytimes.com/1994/11/17/business/macy-chief-will-head-dfs-group.html
  57. https://wwd.com/business-news/retail/myron-mike-ullman-dead-77-obituary-1236537956/
  58. https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB904661451693887500
  59. https://moodiedavittreport.com/philippe-schaus-to-take-over-from-ed-brennan-as-dfs-chairman-ceo/
  60. https://wwd.com/business-news/human-resources/feature/dfs-group-names-philippe-schaus-ceo-6072383-586033/
  61. https://wwd.com/business-news/human-resources/feature/philippe-schaus-leaves-dfs-group-become-ceo-moet-hennessy-10970703/
  62. https://www.trbusiness.com/regional-news/international/benjamin-vuchot-to-leave-dfs-former-ceo-ed-brennan-to-take-reins-on-interim-basis/258525
  63. https://www.dfnionline.com/latest-news/ed-brennan-return-dfs-group-interim-chairman-ceo-11-10-2024/
  64. https://www.dfnionline.com/latest-news/improved-trends-for-dfs-in-q3-2025-as-lvmh-records-e58-1bn-in-revenue-15-10-2025/
  65. https://www.dfs.com/en/san-francisco
  66. https://www.dfs.com/en/new-york/dfs-circle-locations-new-york
  67. https://www.luxuo.sg/homepage-slider/dfs-group-to-close-liquor-and-tobacco-stores-in-changi-airport-by-june-2020.html
  68. https://moodiedavittreport.com/dfs-adds-two-hong-kong-stores-to-seven-already-shut-down-in-macau/
  69. https://labor.hawaii.gov/wdc/files/2020/11/WARN-2020.11.02-DFS-Group-L.P.-Update.pdf
  70. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/companies/retail/luxury-retail-giant-duty-free-shoppers-closing-new-zealand-stores/6TFUHEO4CFFUVG62POKQFPHPYA/
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  72. https://www.premiumbeautynews.com/en/dfs-to-close-its-iconic-department%2C24794
  73. https://www.globalcosmeticsnews.com/dfs-to-close-tsim-sha-tsui-east-store-maintain-hong-kong-focus/
  74. https://moodiedavittreport.com/lvmh-buys-out-dfs-from-la-samaritaine-amid-travel-retailers-ongoing-restructure/
  75. https://macaonews.org/news/business/macau-dfs-m8-retail/
  76. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dfs-opening-the-first-world-class-seven-star-luxury-retail-and-entertainment-destination-dfs-yalong-bay-in-sanya-hainan-china-by-2026-301943810.html
  77. https://wwd.com/business-news/retail/dfs-lvmh-open-seven-star-luxury-retail-entertainment-destination-hainan-1235853046/
  78. https://jingdaily.com/posts/dfs-group-sanya-yalong-bay-lvmh
  79. https://www.dfnionline.com/latest-news/china-report-dfs-group-strides-chinese-hainan-markets-01-03-2024/
  80. https://www.guampdn.com/news/dfs-guam-closing-in-march-2026-ending-an-era-of-luxury-shopping/article_2a21e181-e9b6-4dc8-820e-482a1fd02720.html
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