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It is now two weeks since Hurricane Dorian devastated the northern Bahamas. The official death toll stands at 50, although 1,300 people are still listed as missing. Preliminary reports estimated Dorian caused some $7 billion in damage and around 15,000 people are reportedly still in need of shelter or food.
Although the Bahamian government is doing its best to coordinate relief and rescue efforts, anecdotal reports credit private groups with rushing in and providing the most immediate and effective assistance. In this issue we bring you an update on what two industry companies –WEBB Banks (and its charity partner Third Wave Volunteers) and Essence Corp. — are doing, including a report “on the ground” from WEBB Banks’ Drea Consuegra. Read more on pages 1 and 5
If you wish to donate, please go to: https://www.crowdrise.com/o/
SPECIAL REPORT: ALFRED GIRAUD FRENCH MALT WHISKY
TMI is very proud to present a fascinating special report on the story of a brand new luxury spirit created by an industry colleague well known in the Americas. Philippe Giraud, owner of Actium in Miami, returns to his family’s cognac heritage to launch a French Malt Whisky named after his cellar master great grandfather. Philippe Giraud shares his story with TMI’s Michael Pasternak. Page 3.
MORE SPIRITS NEWS
In more Spirits news, Edrington Americas Travel Retail (AMTR) has announced that it will cease distribution of third-party brands in a move to focus on growing its portfolio of wholly-owned super-premium brands. By the end of the year, Edrington will no longer distribute Tito’s Handmade Vodka, the Illva Saronno brands nor Sazerac. This move marks the last phase in a strategic realignment in the region which will allow the company to own its routes to market and focus on building its super-premium portfolio, which includes The Macallan, Highland Park, The Glenrothes and Brugal. Juan Gentile, Managing Director of Edrington Americas Travel Retail explains the development to TMI. Page 4.
Also, Chabot Armagnac is focusing on the U.S. travel retail market as its next target in the channel, following a number of successful new listings in the region. See details on page 5.
INDUSTRY NEWS
Dufry signs new contract and expands its presence in Brazil’s Florianópolis International Airport. Page 2
Airports Council International (ACI) World named its top airports for customer experience at its annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards ceremony in September, with Toronto and Dallas getting top marks in the North American large airport category. See page 5 for the other winners in the Americas.
PEOPLE
William Legallais joins Leonidas Maitre Chocolatier. Page 2.
Imperials Brands Global Duty Free & Export finalizes it new management team. Page 2.
Anna Marchesini is promoted to Head of Business Development at m1nd-set. Page 1.
Michael Ungerer has joined MSC as CEO of MSC’s new luxury cruise brand. Page 1.
