Helsinki Airport has integrated elements of Finnish forest landscape into its new Schengen-side commercial area, which opened in March 2026. This zone, located before border control near Gates 28–29, features a central forest-inspired space surrounded by shops, a kiosk, and dining options designed to evoke Finland’s natural environment.
Finavia, the airport operator, selected five Nordic brands to anchor the retail mix: Partioaitta for outdoor gear popular with hikers and tourists; Lindex, a Swedish fashion retailer offering womenswear, kidswear, underwear, and accessories; R-kioski for snacks; Pure – Taste of Finland with berry-based souvenirs; and Picnic, a family-friendly café and restaurant. Lindex expanded with a 250 m² store in the Schengen departures area on 27 February 2026, becoming the largest fashion operator at the airport and complementing its 2024 arrivals hall outlet.
“A piece of Finnish forest landscape will be built at the heart of the new commercial area, inviting visitors to explore before their flight departs,” stated Nora Immonen, Finavia’s Director of Commercial Services for Helsinki Airport. Passenger surveys guided the selections, prioritizing souvenirs, gifts, Finnish flavors, and healthy takeaways amid monthly traffic exceeding one million.
The development aligns with Finavia’s terminal expansion to enhance non-aeronautical revenue, as passenger volumes reached 95% of 2019 levels in 2025. Kirsi Rauhala, Lindex Country Manager, noted the store strengthens international brand visibility for millions of annual travelers. Helsinki Airport earned Commercial Space of the Year in the 2025 NCSC Awards Finland.