A company that runs many of the duty-free shops in airports across Canada says it will seek compensation for lost revenues because of strict security measures.

 Banned products
Travellers can take carry-on luggage but it can't contain any liquids or gels, including:
  • All beverages.
  • Shampoo.
  • Suntan lotion.
  • Creams.
  • Toothpaste.
  • Hair gel.

The exceptions:

  • Baby formula.
  • Breast milk in bottles.
  • Juice for a baby or small child.
  • Prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger's ticket.
  • Insulin.
  • Essential non-prescription medicine.

 

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority imposed a ban on almost all liquids and gels in carry-on luggage shortly after an alleged plot to blow up commercial aircraft was uncovered in Britain earlier this month.

The restrictions have affected sales of duty-free alcohol and perfumes.

The Nuance Group, which runs duty-free shops in most Canadian airports, says sales are down almost 75 per cent. Spokesperson Richard Rendek says his company is seeking compensation.

"Eventually we will come to discussions with compensation … and the past has always been one of partnerships where there's quick recognition in at least two or three airports where we operate where there's a shared risk …. We've already had indications from the airports that there will be discussions," says Rendek.

Rendek says the company suffered a similar loss in sales during the SARS crisis and 9/11, and it did receive some compensation for those incidents.

Rendek points out the measures have been relaxed at many airports in the U.S. and Britain and hopes that will happen in Canada soon.