Malls are struggling. But stores in airports are thriving

Just following the money

this suggests to me that people with disposable income in the income class of flying public members, wander around before their flight and exercise their right of impulse buying of overpriced items, then sit down in their small seats, and feel just a bit better for just a while.

airports do have a lot of small shops that cater to the bored,the tired,the "antsy" travelling public who are trying to kill time before or between flights..yes ,these shops do "upcharge " on items they sell,unless you are in an international terminal and there is a duty free shop..most do however give a small discount to airline or airport employees..