Coach debuts world's first "Coach Airways" retail concept store

A unique retail concept store and café housed in a transformed 1981 Boeing 747 aircraft

Freeport A'Famosa Outlet is proud to unveil the world's first Coach Airways, a unique retail concept store and café housed in a transformed 1981 Boeing 747-230B aircraft.

The ambitious project, which began in April 2021, saw the successful acquiring, transferring, assembling, and completing the Boeing 747 in May 2023. With a length of 231 feet 10 inches and a wingspan of 195 feet 8 inches, the Boeing 747 was once hailed as the largest civilian aircraft in the world during the late 1960s. Today, it takes on a new role as the world's first-ever Coach outlet in a Boeing 747 aircraft.

YAB Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Bin Yusoh, Chief Minister of Malacca said: "Coach Airways is the latest addition to the heart of Malacca, which marks a significant milestone in the state's dedication to enhancing its tourism offerings for the public. This launch aligns with the objectives of Visit Malacca 2024 to achieve the targeted visitors. Beyond shopping, this establishment represents a symbol of luxury and prestige for all Malaysians, especially Malaccans".

Datuk Julian Lau, Director of Freeport A'Famosa Outlet said: "Since the opening of Freeport A'Famosa, we have always strived to create various innovative experiences for all our visitors. This latest addition adds a feather to our cap to offer Malaysians and tourists a fun and immersive shopping experience where they can explore the cockpit, passenger and lounge cabins whilst browsing the collections from Coach".

Aviation enthusiasts and shoppers alike can prepare to be captivated; The Queen of the Sky, as the Boeing 747 is affectionately known, now reigns as the Queen of Retail, offering an extraordinary fusion of aviation history and shopping. The spacious layout of the plane allows for a comfortable and memorable shopping environment reminiscent of the golden age of air travel when luxury and elegance were emphasized.

An entry pass resembling an air ticket will be given to customers upon entering the store to emulate an air travel experience right from the entrance via an air bridge. Customers will be able to explore the interior of the plane and its retail cabins to browse a curated selection of all-gender ready-to-wear, bags and travel accessories— inspired by the next generation's expressive approach to fashion.

Campbell O'Shea, General Manager, Tapestry Southeast Asia & Oceania said: "The opening of Coach Airways marks not only the launch of our first retail concept of its kind but also an exciting moment for Coach as we continue to push innovation and create a space where customers can explore and interact. We are looking forward to bringing our customers this experiential retail pop-up at Freeport A'Famosa Outlet, a popular shopping destination in Malacca".

Also present at the event was Dato' Dr. Ammar Abd. Ghapar, Director-General, Tourism Malaysia, who congratulated the management team of Freeport A'Famosa Outlet for achieving the Malaysia Book of Record's recognition for the "First Retail Concept Store in An Airplane", adding to the vast accolades of the state of Malacca to inspire Malaysians to excel in various fields to the extent of surpassing the world standards.

The Outlet was also awarded the "Unique Retail Experience" of 2023 by the Malaysian Association of Theme Parks & Family Attractions (MATFA) earlier this month, signifying Freeport A'Famosa Outlet as a must-visit destination where fashion, history and innovation converge to provide an unforgettable retail experience.

Coach Airways at Freeport A'Famosa Outlet is set to provide guests with a distinctive and value-added shopping experience while attracting a broader customer base and driving sales. In addition to the retail space, the aircraft will be equipped with a welcoming area, an immersive gallery, and a contemporary café, providing guests with a space to relax and indulge in refreshments while enjoying the unique ambience of the transformed aircraft.