ARI Global Buying Manager, Fashion & Accessories Elena Ourri discusses her travel retail career.
DFNI: How did you get involved in travel retail?
Ourri: At the start of my career, I worked for Clarins Beauty; my initial position with them back in 1998, was as a Beauty Advisor in travel retail. The best memories I have come from that experience, and everything that I learned about the industry in those early years.
Although I took a break from travel retail when I relocated to the UK, I rejoined the industry in 2007 as a buyer for CTCARI Airports in Cyprus, part of the ARI Group. I moved to my current global role at the end of 2022, where I now support buying fashion and accessories for ARI’s global estate.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
No two days are alike, due to the industry’s fast-paced nature. I also love to understand all the different customers. The different nationalities, demographics, and cohorts, all with their varying shopping mindsets.
I am fortunate to be a part of an incredible team at ARI that is supportive yet not afraid to professionally challenge one another. My commitment and dedication to ARI Group for 17 years are a true testament to the positive work environment, shared vision, and values we nurture.
We all share the collective vision to be the world’s favourite airport retailer and partner of choice and this, along with our behaviours and core principles, have played a significant role in keeping me motivated and proud to be part of the Group.
What do you look for when selecting suppliers?
It’s about finding the right match between what our customers seek, meeting their needs and staying in front of the latest fashion trends, whilst also staying true to our core values.
When selecting suppliers, it’s important to consider factors such as reliability, reputation, quality of products and services, responsibility, prices, and the ability to stay relevant to emerging trends and market developments.
Can you share your highlights from the past year?
Closing the year with the preparations in full swing for the opening of the new Preloved standalone boutique at Portugal Duty Free in T1, Lisbon Airport, was a real stand-out moment for me.
This offering appeals to the conscious consumer who is looking to shop more sustainably… and for luxury items at reduced prices.
The pre-loved concept has been making fashion headlines for a long time, yet is still relatively new to travel retail and one that we at ARI, in line with our ESG commitments, are proud to champion.
What do you never travel without?
I always travel with a positive spirit and an open mind, and of course my statement earrings, just in case of a fashion emergency. It’s the perfect accessory to complete an outfit and showcase my personal style without overpacking.
