The Travel Markets Insider newsletter is attached to this letter as a PDF file. To open the PDF file, please click here
Today’s lead story looks at Duty Free Americas owner Falic Group, who earlier this week announced that it was accelerating its global expansion efforts as it embarks on a “bold new growth phase.”
The company’s strategic plan includes entering new travel retail channels – rail, cruise and diplomatic—and as part of the expansion, Falic Group has launched UETA MEA, aimed at enhancing its global presence and strengthening distribution across the Middle East and Africa. Read the story on page 1 to learn about its plans for the diplomatic channel, as it prepares to announce some major strategic partnerships in the cruise and border sectors.
DFWC/TFWA announce more support from retailers across the globe for the anti-illicit trade declaration campaign, with International Shoppes, Attenza Duty Free and Duty Free Partners among the latest companies to pledge their support. Page 1.
In the latest research from m1nd-set, the agency reports that gift shopping has suffered a decline post-pandemic in global travel retail. Gift shoppers both spend more than non-gift shoppers and buy more duty free exclusives, so this is a trend retailers should address, says m1nd-set. Page 2.
Avolta continues to win new concessions, announcing a new 10-year contract for its HMSHost division at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. In APAC, meanwhile, the company has entered into a deal to acquire Free Duty, a border travel retail operator in Hong Kong. Page 2.
COUNTDOWN TO CANNES
With the 2024 Tax Free World Exhibition only a few days away, suppliers are getting ready to present their newest wares.
Shiseido Travel Retail will showcase the beauty of nature. Page 3.
LVMH’s Thélios eyewear division will focus on key GTR styles from its luxury maisons. Page 3.
Elizabeth Scarlett, a UK-based luxury accessory design house, is expanding its presence in global travel retail, especially in the cruise channel. Page 4.
Bric’s Bellagio Legacy Bag— the miniature version of the brand’s legendary Bellagio suitcase – is coming to Cannes. Page 4.
Japanese luxury beauty brand SENSAI will be in Cannes with sister brand Molton Brown, where it will be building on its premium skincare lines. Page 4.
PEOPLE NEWS
Anna Somogyi returns to travel retail at Mondelez as Kezer steps down. Page 5.
Carolyn Mariani joins Harding+. Page 5.
Elizabeth Taylor’s Premier Global Trading has been appointed independent Duty Free Sales agent for Latin Gin. Page 5.
Time Products (UK) expands Sekonda and Accurist international team with Cleona Henderson. Page 5.
James Mullaney, former Furla USA CEO, has joined Duty Free Holdings as President. Page 5.
SUPPLY SIDE: SPIRITS
FreeWorld Brands to distribute V Rum and Ricky Gervais’ Dutch Barn Vodka in global travel retail. Page 6.
Blue Caterpillar adds Sailor’s Home Irish Whiskey to global travel retail and Americas portfolio. Page 6.
MONARQ bolsters distribution with addition of Ardnahoe Scotch Whisky and expands its partnership with The Lakes Distillery with the launch of Boundless, a GTR exclusive. Page 6.
Diageo will be featuring its new sweet and fruity Johnnie Walker Black Ruby Scotch in Cannes. Page 6.
