Travel Markets Insider Newsletter Vol. 18 No. 22

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

This week TMI features two in-depth exclusive interviews: one with Neutral CEO Enrique Urioste, and the other with legendary spirits industry executive Chester Brandes.
Urioste, who operates the largest and oldest chain of duty free stores on the Uruguay border with Brazil, reports that business on the border is finally showing good signs of recovery as he discusses the factors behind the upsurge and why this cycle might differ from those in the past.  Our One on One interview begins on page 1.
Chester Brandes, whose storied career includes the development of such Americas success stories as Cruzan Rum and Sobieski Vodka, is now heading up the new Americas division of Bulldog Gin, the fastest growing premium gin in the world according the IWSR. Brandes shares his vision for the brand with TMI’s Michael Pasternak, especially some plans for travel retail. Read more on page 4.
In more spirits news, Andy Consuegra’s World Equity Brand Builders (WEBB)continues to expand and announces its latest venture that targets the domestic Caribbean and Central American business. Page 1.
William Grant & Sons brings home the The IWSR‘s highest honors for a sixth time, winning “Distiller of the Year” and “Scotch Producer of the Year.” See details on page 3.
Beauty News. Shiseido has installed its first US airport activation, a state-of-the-art showcase at Los Angeles International Airport’s Tom Bradley International Terminal.  The activation was created and installed by retail focused design and production agency Bloom Miami, and features Shiseido’s newest lipstick formula, Rouge Rouge. Page 3.
YSL Beauty names 24-year-old model and rock guitarist Staz Lindes as its new makeup ambassador. Page 3.
PEOPLE. After 7 years in general management roles with Flemingo International and its successor, GDF Duty Free, in Paraguay, Pablo Lesme has left the company to assume a new role in a new career. See page 1.
Cuba Updates. Norwegian Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean have finally received permission from the Cuban government to sail from the U.S., joining Carnival’s Fathom line that began every other week voyages back in May. In the air, six U.S. airlines began flying scheduled service into Havana between Nov. 29 and Dec. 12. Page 5.

 

Meetings.  TFWA announces that pre-registration for the 2017 China’s Century Conference, taking place March 7-9 in Guangzhou, will begin this month. Go to tfwa.com for more information. Page 5.