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Canada’s Frontier Duty Free Association held its annual Convention in Toronto on Nov. 11-14, welcoming attendees with its renowned warmth and good spirits in an atmosphere that FDFA Executive Director, Barbara Barrett says fostered “meaningful connections.”
TMI here presents many of the week’s highlights, including a discussion with Barrett about the Association’s focus on its critical advocacy role.
TMI also spotlights the winners of the annual Gold Standard Awards and shares a gallery of photos. Pages 1, 2 & 5.
RESEARCH
Reporting on research conducted during the third quarter by Swiss research agency m1nd-set, the latest KPI Monitor from the Duty Free World Council highlights the importance of engaging with shopping planners prior to travel. About 75% of shoppers plan their purchases before they begin their journey, says DFWC, offering suppliers and retailers a unique opportunity to communicate their message to travelers earlier than in the past. Page 3.
INTERNATIONAL: LOOKING TO AFRICA
Well-known luxury specialist Jerome Blanchard has joined Beaute Luxe Duty Free, the new company formed by industry veteran David Dayan.
Beaute Luxe Duty Free specializes in the distribution of luxury brands in perfumes and cosmetics exclusively dedicated to selective distribution on the African continent, which is forecast to be the second fastest growing global economy next year, after Asia Pacific.
The company is headquartered in the Jebel Ali Free Zone in Dubai and covers all sectors of the African travel retail market, including airports, ports, border shops, downtown duty free and diplomatic stores. See page 4 for more details.
SUPPLY SIDE/ BEAUTY
Two major beauty companies announce plans to acquire surging brands this week.
The Estée Lauder Companies has signed an agreement to acquire Seoul-based, Dr. Jart+, one of the fastest growing skin care brands globally, and men’s grooming brand Do The Right Thing. This is the Company’s first acquisition of an Asia-based beauty brand. Page 4
Coty buys majority stake in Kylie Jenner Beauty Brands for $600 million. Page 4.
The Caribbean gets a duo of destination fragrances with the launch of Caribbean Splash Pour Homme and Caribbean Splash Pour Femme from Miami-based Live Love Travel. Page 3.
