No Flight Needed for East Midlands’ Duty Free Christmas Sale
East Midlands Airport will open part of its terminal to shoppers who are not flying during a World Duty Free Christmas sale from 18 to 21 November 2026. Visitors can buy perfume, cosmetics, spirits, confectionery and accessories without a passport or boarding pass. The airport is advertising reductions of up to 70% off recommended retail prices, but the largest discount will not apply to every product.
The event takes place in the public check-in hall, not the usual World Duty Free shop beyond security. Sunglasses, jewellery and aftershave are among the advertised items, alongside gift purchases for Christmas. No individual product prices or minimum spending requirement have been published in the announcement, so shoppers cannot know their exact savings in advance. Purchases must be paid for by card; cash is not accepted.
East Midlands Airport Sale Dates and Conditions
- Dates: Wednesday 18 to Saturday 21 November 2026.
- Hours: 08:00–19:00 Wednesday to Friday; 08:00–12:00 Saturday.
- Discount: Up to 70% against recommended retail prices, on selected stock.
- Entry: Public check-in hall; no flight, passport or boarding pass required.
- Payment: Debit or credit card only.
- Parking: £2 donation for the first two hours at Mid Stay 1; standard charges afterwards.
- Overflow: Long Stay 1 if Mid Stay 1 fills.
Mid Stay 1 has space for up to 100 sale visitors, and Long Stay 1 will take overflow vehicles. There is no shuttle for shoppers using the overflow car park, so allow time to walk with purchases. Alternatively, Skylink buses link the airport with Nottingham, Derby and Leicester. Check the relevant timetable before travelling, especially if you plan to visit during Saturday's shorter opening window.
"Up to 70% off" is a ceiling, not a promise that everything is cheaper than the high street. Compare the price and product size with other retailers before buying, particularly for fragrances and alcohol. Ask about the sale's returns policy at the till: UK shops do not have to refund non-faulty purchases simply because a customer changes their mind. Keep your receipt in case of a fault.