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SOUTH AMERICA
Registration is now open for the 2023 ASUTIL Conference, returning to a stand-alone format for the first time in more than five years. This year, the event is being organized with the assistance of TFWA, so attendees can expect even more world-class content, enhanced by the traditional warmth and Latin hospitality that are hallmarks of the popular event.
Quoting Buenos Aires-based John Gallagher on his LinkedIn: “The very best conference for anyone looking to get into duty free in Latin America. Great track record of programming, relevant speakers, attracting buyers who actually buy and organizing some decent social events as well.” See page 1 for more details.
Dufry released its full year 2022 results last week, with the good news that the company met and surpassed its financial targets and is optimistic about the rising tide of global travel. See page 1 for highlights.
Brazil brings back tourist visas for Americans and Canadians. Critics fear the move could stifle some of that rising travel demand. See page 2
CRUISE
Seatrade Cruise unveils keynote panels for the inaugural F&B@Sea. This two-day event taking place March 28-29 in conjunction with the industry-leading Seatrade Cruise Global event could offer some interesting opportunities to travel retail beverage and confectionery brands going forward. More details on page 2
One of the emerging beverage and cocktail trends in cruise programs is the growing popularity of alcohol-free alternatives. Carnival’s Zach Sulkes announces that CCL is serving up a full-range of alcohol-free cocktails onboard the Carnival fleet. Page 2
Carnival also became the first cruise line in the industry to embark 100 million guests. Page 2
Uruguay reports a record-breaking cruise season. Page 3
AIRPORTS & AVIATION
Only two airports in the Americas – Seattle-Tacoma and Vancouver – ranked in the top 20 of Skytrax’ Best Airports list for 2023. See other winners on page 3
Marshall Retail Group has opened two new shops at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, with five more in the pipeline. Page 3
NewsLink wins AXN’s Best Overall Retailer award (Small Companies division). Page 3
SUPPLY SIDE
DFS partners with Hennessy to unveil collaboration with designer Kim Jones. The three-piece collection that “marries” cognac and couture, will be on display in DFS Macau and DFS’ LAX store, and will be available to DFS customers at DFS boutiques across North America. See page 4
That emerging trend for alcohol-free beverages—which grew 25% to $1.2 billion in 2022– will soon be available to travel retailers globally, as Duty Free Global enters the non-alcohol category with the launch of Caleño “Light & Zesty” (a gin alternative) and “Dark & Spicy” (think rum). See full story on page 4
NITR. Nestle International Travel Retail is returning to the Summit of the Americas with a full array of new products for its key brands and a commitment to its Food #1 category vision. Page 5
BY THE NUMBERS
Total 2022 international arrivals to the U.S. grew strongly but still trail 2019 volume, reports the U.S. National Travel and Tourism Office. See which source markets are showing the strongest growth. Page 5
