Travel Markets Insider Newsletter Vol. 17 No. 2

The Travel Markets Insider newsletter is attached to this post as a PDF file. To open the PDF file, please click on this link.

We are looking forward to seeing so many of our industry friends and colleagues at the Duty Free Show of the Americas which kicks off Sunday morning with a full slate of Sports and Leisure events, including an inaugural 3K Fun Walk/Run sponsored by the IAADFS and Essence Corp. Safe travels to one and all.

Today’s issue of TMI is filled with PEOPLE news. Fairn & Swanson, Brown-Forman, Kering Eyewear and Illva Saronno all named new heads of travel retail this week, among other new position announcements.

In AIRPORT news, Skytrax released the winners of the 2015 World Airports Awards, while industry groups ACI and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) report a solid start to the year for passenger traffic. Page 1.

In a special report, TMI also talks about some of the highlights from the Passenger Terminal Conference that took place in Paris last month, put together for us by aviation consultant Dr. Patricia Ryan, who was a co-chair of the prestigious event. See page 4.

We also present details from the RFP concessions meeting held by Portland International Airport for the 26 new retail, food & beverage and passenger services locations available in this phase of the airport re-development. Page 3.

AT THE POINT OF SALE. Italian luxury lifestyle brand Paul & Shark is significantly expanding its investment in the U.S. domestic market, opening two new stores and renovating two others. Worldwide Travel Retail Director Catherine Bonelli believes that the expansion on the local market will lead to new retail opportunities at airports. Read more, page 3.

IN THE BOARDROOM. In a big step in its development, French fragrance company Interparfums confirmed this week that it is acquiring the Rochas fashion and fragrance house from Procter & Gamble, marking the French group’s entry into fashion for the first time. Invicta Watches announced in Basel that it has acquired the TechnoMarine watch brand. Page 1.