The Travel Markets Insider newsletter is attached to this post as a PDF file. To open the PDF file, please click on this link.
The week started off momentously with the United States and Cuba restoring full diplomatic links for the first time in 54 years, and TMI contributor Larry Luxner was in Washington, D.C. to witness the raising of Cuba’s tri-color flag. See page 1.
On the airport front, Florida’s Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport opened its first new concourse in more than a decade in the first part of a $450 million expansion. Miami International Airport reports that it is on pace for another record year of passenger traffic. Pages 1 & 2.
In more news from Florida, Port Everglades received approval from the US Army Corps of Engineers – plus funding – to deepen the channels so that it will be able to accommodate Post-Panamax mega-ships. Page 2.
Cruise. Luxury cruise line Crystal has announced a major expansion that includes ocean, river and yacht travel as well as the purchase of its own Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Page 4.
Travel Retail Operators. HMSHost receives award for diversity practices; Lagardère rebrands with Travel Retail name; Dufry to issue EUR 500 million Senior Notes to help finance the World Duty Free acquisition. Page 2.
Supply Side. Spirits. Brown-Forman kicks off construction of new Old Forester Distillery on “Whiskey Row;” Bacardi on the acquisition trail as Global Travel Retail wins several drinks industry design competitions; Belvédère Group becomes Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits. Pages 3 & 4.
Accessories. Maui Jim sees bright future in Travel Retail; Furla opens new store with Starboard onboard Celebrity Silhouette cruise ship; TUMI appoints new creative director. Page 4.
