Travel Markets Insider Newsletter Vol. 22 No. 25

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

NOTE: The deadline for exhibitors to register for the 2021 Virtual Travel Retail EXPO, organized by The Moodie Davitt Report and event partner FILTR.QINGWA, is August 16. The event is taking place October 11-15 and has unveiled an inspiring series of speakers for the Knowledge Hub. Details on page 2.

TRBusiness and m1nd-set, meanwhile, are planning to hold a live Travel Retail Consumer Forum in London Sept. 20-22. The event will focus on consumer insights provided exclusively for delegates by travel research firm m1nd-set. Go to page 2 for more information.

Today’s double-size issue is packed with exciting news happening At the Point of Sale in the region, both on land and sea.

In another plus, Canada opened its border to vaccinated Americans on Monday. Long lines of cars were already waiting at border crossings by midnight and now land border duty free operators are waiting to see how many of the travelers will be ready for shopping when they return to the U.S. See which Canadian retailer had its best day of sales since the pandemic began. Page 1.

The other major story of the week looks at travel retail giant Dufry’s half year earnings, which are showing gradual improvement. Admitting that Dufry is not where it would hope to be after ongoing restrictions resulted in a slow start to the year, Group CEO Julian Diaz nevertheless sees many opportunities ahead and expresses confidence in the future. Page 1. 

AT THE POINT OF SALE: AIRPORT

Some of Dufry’s optimism stems from the innovative developments its Hudson division is making at the Point of Sale in airports throughout the U.S. The latest concept unveiled by Hudson this week is the eye-catching and welcoming Evolve shop-in-shop experience store, an immersive, customer-centric shopping destination that could significantly liven up airport retail. Page 4. 

AT THE POINT OF SALE: CRUISE

Virgin Voyages –one of cruise’s most exciting new brands that is intent on reimagining the industry — extends its innovation to its onboard retail. In partnership with HardingVirgin’s Scarlet Lady, whose maiden voyage set sail from Portsmouth on August 6, offers an immersive retail program driven by sustainability and experience (and collectable vinyl!). Page 5.

Harding also partnered with BVLGARI to create a unique concept pop-up store onboard the Scarlet Lady. See details on page 6.

Montblanc shines onboard the new Celebrity Apex, where it worked with Starboard Cruise Services to introduce the first Montblanc lifestyle boutique, filled with immersive activations. Get a sneak peek on page 7.

AT THE POINT OF SALE: CARIBBEAN

Despite restrictions and cancelations of traditional Carnival festivals all over the Caribbean this summer, Rouge Duty Free treated guests at its stores in St. Thomas, St. Croix and Grenada—along with shoppers at Grand Duty Free in the Caymans —to celebrations that ending up delivering big sales and much joy. Read more on page 7

SUPPLY SIDE

Dario Pastorelli’s IFE Lux Group is introducing stunning Italian luxury handbags and jewelry from Graziella & Braccialini to the region. Details on page 6

Rodenstock has appointed Lucas Gestin as the new Director of Global Retail. Page 6

Estee Lauder is launching a new eye concentrate from its best-selling Advanced Night Repair brand. Page 8

Bowmore Single Malt Scotch Whisky brings together two iconic brands as it introduces the Design by Aston Martin collection. Page 8.