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The momentum of new travel retail developments in the Americas continues unabated.
TMI’s lead story takes a look at South America, where CCR Aeroportos, a group that operates 20 airports worldwide, including in nine Brazilian states, announced a deal with land border operator Cellshop Duty Free, to operate shopping at Foz de Iguaçu International Airport. Page 1.
In Central America, Victorinox and Motta Internacional highlight their strategic partnership in the Americas with the opening of a new fully-branded Victorinox watch corner in the new Terminal 2 Attenza Duty Free store in Panama’s Tocumen Airport. See full story on page 2.
In the U.S., 3Sixty Duty Free has signed a strategic partnership with Inflyter that could enable it to reach millions of domestic passengers in the U.S. who frequent the Priority Pass program and lounges operated by Airport Dimensions. The program will specifically offer a strong new shopping proposition for beauty, say the companies. See details on page 3.
In more U.S. news that could impact travel retail, Spirit Airlines shareholders approve the merger with JetBlue, in a deal said to be worth $3.8 billion. If approved, the deal would see the end of Spirit as a separate entity. Page 3.
BY THE NUMBERS
OAG. In a fascinating analysis of how aviation is recovering, OAG released its Busiest Routes Report for 2022, which shows that in the twelve months between October 2021 and September 2022, Middle East airports dominated the busiest international routes; and nine of the ten busiest domestic routes operated within the Asia Pacific region (minus China, however). North American airports had a much stronger showing when it comes to longest routes, and the most unserved routes.
NTTO. A closer look at U.S. air passenger traffic from the Dept. of Commerce’s National Travel and Tourism Office, shows that travel to and from the United States continues to recover, with travel between the U.S. and Europe up by 204% in September. Outbound U.S. travel has now surpassed the 2019 levels, in fact. See both stories on page 4.
SUPPLY SIDE
Bottega Gold was awarded the “Best Wines Product” at TR Business’ Global Travel Retail Awards ceremony in Cannes. Page 2.
Recuerdo Mezcal wins IWSC’s Agave Producer of the Year award. Page 5.
In big news from Brown-Forman, the company announces the launch of a travel retail exclusive ultra-premium Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt Whiskey. Page 5.
Distell launched its latest Amarula Cream Liqueur – Amarula Chocolate – at a special event at the TFWA World Exhibition in Cannes. Page 5.
Luxury Group LVMH reports continued growth in Q3, even as DFS is still affected by lack of travel in Asia. Page 6.
New in Travel Retail: Meet COTI Vision, which brings a retro glam touch to eyewear chains. Already launched in three UK airports through Dufry, the company is looking to open in the U.S. as well. Page 6.
