Planet Money The Land of the Duty Free (classic)
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Jan 15, 2025 Discover the fascinating origins of duty-free shopping, born from a clever tax loophole and driven by the entrepreneurial spirit of Brendan O'Regan at Shannon Airport. Explore how a mundane fuel stop transformed into a luxury shopping haven for wealthy travelers. Dive into the rise of iconic products like Toblerone and the culinary upgrades at the airport that celebrated Irish culture. Unravel the paradox of duty-free stores, where the illusion of savings often clashes with rising prices in airport retail.
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Shannon Airport's Rise to Fame
- In the 1940s, propeller planes had to refuel in Ireland, making Shannon Airport a hub for transatlantic travel.
- This led to the realization that amenities needed upgrading for famous passengers.
O'Regan's Early Innovations
- Brendan O'Regan, a former bartender, was hired to cater to the famous passengers at Shannon Airport.
- He promoted Irish cuisine and even created the first Irish coffee there.
The Duty-Free Inspiration
- O'Regan noticed a tax loophole where sailors could buy duty-free alcohol for voyages.
- Inspired by this and cheaper prices on a cruise ship, he proposed a similar system for air travelers.