2007 Case: PX duty-free Shop for KAIA Airport, Kabul

In the beginning of October, DCS Group opened a new PX shop in the military part of Kaia Airport in Kabul. The airport is used by troops from many countries. The international NATO lead forces in Afghanistan—ISAF, (International Security Assistance Forces) forwarded a request to DCS Group for operation of a combined PX shop and café in the headquarters located within the Airport. A week later, ISAF had evaluated the offer with drawings and concept description and signed a contract with DCS Group with the request to open the PX Shop within six weeks.

The deadline was met precisely. The new PX shop at the ISAF headquarters was opened on October 25, 2007, and the café was opened in November.

DCS Group now operates 2 PX Shops and cafés in KAIA Airport. The product range for the two PX shops in Afghanistan deviate on one significant point from the company’s other PX shops; ISAF doesn’t allow the sale of alcoholic beverages. On the other hand, expensive watches and electronic equipment are popular.

The new café will be the third eatery, but the first café in the headquarters. "We want to create a free spot for soldiers to relax and enjoy the atmosphere, just like in a café in any other larger city, and with a menu that offers more than just burgers and pizza," explains Finn Lauritsen, Product Manager for Food & Catering, DCS Group. The café has room for 36 guests, and next summer there will be outdoor tables and chairs for another 12-16 guests.

DCS Group can provide a similar solution for your PX Shop projects—contact us for further information: