TFWA reveals “New Era of Innovation” theme of reimagined Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference for 2026

TFWA says that it is set to redefine the future of travel retail with the launch of a completely reimagined TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference 2026, taking place in Singapore from May 10-14. Designed to inspire, connect, and elevate the industry, the new edition introduces concepts that expand both the business and creative potential of brands and operators. 

The transformation involves two major concepts: the World of Innovation and Taste of the World, dynamic new platforms designed to reflect the evolving expectations of travelers and the rapid growth of the Asia Pacific market. 

“TFWA’s Singapore edition continues the spirit of modernity introduced in Cannes. With a refreshed format and new dedicated spaces, the TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference 2026 in Singapore is designed to support meaningful conversations, creativity and collaboration,” noted TFW President Sarah Branquinho.

     “We are delighted that leading global brands across all categories, including Estée Lauder, Brown-Forman, Mondelez, JT International, Lacoste, Travel Blue and Thélios have already reconfirmed their participation, reflecting strong support for this ongoing evolution. We look forward to welcoming brands and partners to Singapore for an engaging and inspiring Asia Pacific edition,” she continued.

A new exhibition experience for a new Travel Retail landscape

The 2026 edition features an entirely redesigned layout with category-focused halls, offering exhibitors enhanced visibility and visitors a more intuitive experience.

Each “World” is marked by a central icon acting as a natural meeting hub, with Level 1 dedicated to Perfumes & Cosmetics and Fashion, while Basement 2 houses Wines & Spirits, Confectionery, Tobacco, and the new major initiatives.  

For the first time, brands will also benefit from high-impact LED screens integrated into these central hubs, delivering powerful, high-visibility communication opportunities that drive traffic and reinforce brand messaging.  

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World of Innovation

The World of Innovation offers a forward-looking showcase of cutting-edge technologies, new retail concepts, and breakthrough products. This dedicated space features a large amphitheatre for talks, events, workshops, start-up pitches, and exclusive product reveals, positioning it as a magnet for buyers seeking fresh insights and new comer-cial opportunities, presented by pioneering brands. 

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Taste of the World

Recognizing the growing importance of F&B in the traveler journey, now accounting for20% of total airport dwell time and up to 50% of non-aeronautical airport revenues, TFWA introduces Taste of the World, a dynamic gastronomy hub celebrating global culinary culture within travel retail. 

Designed as a compact, high-energy, multi-purpose space, Taste of the World will bring together curated brand presence, live demonstrations and immersive experiences, anchored by a central experience hub and beverage-led formats. The full integration of the TFWA Asian Pacific Lounge within the space will further enhance footfall, engagement and premium hospitality. 

Showcasing the growing convergence between gourmet experiences and travel retail, particularly appealing to Gen Z and Millennial audiences, who demonstrate strong engagement with food-led brand storytelling, Taste of the World offers a flexible and accessible platform for premium and international F&B brands to connect with industry stakeholders through content-driven participation and experiential sponsorship opportunities. 

Networking Highlights include: Sunday, May 10 – Welcome cocktail at 7.30pm at the Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay; TFWA Asia Pacific Lounge evenings at Taste of the World, from 6pm to 8pm, Monday, May 11 and Tuesday, May 12: featuring live show cooking. Wednesday, May 13 – Closing event at 7.30pm at the Alkaff Mansion

More details, including speaker announcements and program highlights, will be revealed soon. Visitor registration will open inmid-February 2026.