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The International Association of Airport and Duty Free Stores (IAADFS) has announced that more than 100 participants from seven organized teams have already confirmed their support for the Hollywood 5K Walk/Run and Kite Fly on March 14. This fundraising event, organized by IAADFS and GO2 for Lung Cancer, embraces the spirit of the KickCancerThon created by The Moodie Davitt Report and inspired by Sinead Moodie, who tragically passed away on February 1.
Travel Markets Insider is proud to be one of these participating teams. As many of you know, I have been battling this disease for the past two years. See my personal message on page 1, Inside Insider.
As we go to press, the IAADFS has also announced that Tier 2 registration pricing to attend the Summit of the Americas ends this Friday, February 27. After that, rates increase to the highest level. Log on here to register now, and to view the full calendar of Education Sessions, click here.
It is also with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Keith Spinks earlier this month, following a short illness. Keith served as Secretary General of ETRC and its predecessor, ITRC, from 2000 to 2019. Prior to that, he played a central role in all major duty free advocacy campaigns from 1988 onwards. He later continued to support the association as ETRC Senior Counsel, with particular responsibility for tobacco-related matters, until 2021. TMI adds its sincere condolences to those of the ETRC and the industry to Keith’s family and to his many friends and colleagues.
TOURISM
International travel to the U.S. continues to fall, although the government and travel associations are expecting significant uplift from major summer events. Page 1.
CRUISE
F&B@Sea, the unique cruise food and beverage experience that brings together cruise lines and supplies, will feature an enhanced 2026 program. The event is taking place April 15-16 at Miami’s Mana Wynwood Convention Center, concurrent with the giant Seatrade Cruise Global (April 13-16 at the Miami Convention Center).
Many familiar companies and brands from the travel retail and duty free channel are participating. TMI is media partner with F&B@Sea and will have extensive coverage in our upcoming April magazine. Please contact me if you are interested. Page 2.
Iconic British confectionery brand Cartwright and Butler has secured its first cruise listing, and is now availble with Diamonds International onboard Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas ships. Page 2.
Fun Fact: Princess Cruises breaks Guinness world record with most margaritas sold on National Margarita Day. Page 3.
CARIBBEAN
The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) debuted its first episode in its FCCA Leadership Series, featuring Port St Maarten Group CEO Alexander Gumbs. Gumbs cautioned Caribbean destinations against sacrificing revenues from this surprisingly high-spending audience by increasing fees. See his full discussion on page 3.
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and Airports Council International- Latin America and Caribbean (ACI-LAC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening regional air connectivity. Page 3.
SUPPLY SIDE: BEAUTY & ACCESSORIES
Furla celebrates winter sports with playful story-telling at Italian airports. Page 4.
Molton Brown debuts Tea Ceremony fragrance. Page 4.
SUPPLY SIDE: SPIRITS
Hendrick’s launches first new permanent release in nearly a decade. Page 5.
Freixenet debuts its first spirits release. Page 5.
U’Luvka Vodka partners with JP-GTR in travel retail. Page 5.
SUPPLY SIDE: TOBACCO
Imperial Brands to showcase portfolio at Summit of the Americas. Page 5.
