Travel Markets Insider Newsletter Vol. 17 No. 31

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

It is the time of year to begin thinking about the travel retail trade shows and conferences. The IAADFS announces that in 2016 the Duty Free Show of the Americas, taking place in Orlando from April 3-6, will host an “education session” on Monday morning. Two top industry figures will be speaking during this session: ACI’s inimitable Director General Angela Gittens and research guru Peter Mohn of m1nd-set will discuss latest trends, findings and repercussions for travel retail. If you wish to attend, tick off the right box when you register, or send the IAADFS an email. Please come out and support this event. By the way, there is only one week left to receive the early bird discounted registration. See page 1 for additional details.

On the global scene, TFWA reports that it is seeing strong exhibitor bookings for the 2016 Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference, taking place May 8-12, at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore. Registration will open for delegates in February. More on page 1.

Two major developments took place in the spirits industry in North America this week: The two largest distribution companies in North America, Southern Wine & Spirits and Glazer’s, announced that they are combining to create the first “truly cross-continental wholesaler” in a deal that will cover nearly 90% of the legal drinking age population in the U.S., and extend into Canada and the Caribbean as well.

And Brown-Forman confirmed that it has sold its Southern Comfort and Tuaca brands to New Orleans-based Sazerac. Full stories on page 2.

BY THE NUMBERS. ACI and IATA report strong passenger air traffic in November. Page 3.

GIVING BACK. Miami’s Essence Corp. held its annual giving back to the community day by volunteering at the Miami Rescue Mission, chipping in to help with everything from serving meals to working in the thrift shop. A day well spent! Page 3.

TECHNOLOGY.
Global airport app FLIO launches its Android version as its services are now available in 200 airports worldwide. Page 4.

KUDOS. Maui Jim was voted the Best Sunglasses Company for the 2nd year in a row by eye specialists in the 7th Annual EyeVote Reader’s Choice Award. Page 4.

PEOPLE.
Elena Stungis goes to Majorica; Homero Cardenas returns to Weitnauer Distribution as CEO; Jesse Pena heads up Island Spirits NV; Romain Ritter is promoted at Coty; Carnival Corporation names respected Chinese executive Roger Chen as chairman of its Chinese operations. Page 1.