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In a major step forward for prestige beauty in the travel retail channel, Duty Free Americas and The Estée Lauder Companies last week announced a strategic global partnership that will launch ELC brands across DFA stores. Calling the collaboration a “significant milestone,” the joint announcement said the agreement will be a key driver in ELC’s accelerated expansion ambitions in the Americas. See page 1 for more details.
IN MEMORIAM: Anthony (Tony) Pinero. We at TMI are very sad to report the passing of Tony Pinero. A familiar figure at industry trade shows in the Americas and across the world for decades, Pinero died in August after a two-year battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease. Page 1.
Looking south, Cellshop Importados Paraguay – one of the fastest growing duty free retailers in South America—officially inaugurated a new store on the border with Brazil earlier this month. Page 1.
NUMBERS
UN Tourism reports that international tourism grew by 5% in the first half of 2025, despite global challenges. Growth was not consistent among the regions, however. See more on page 2.
PEOPLE & COMPANY NEWS
Imperial Brands has created a new Global Travel cluster. Page 2.
Heineken promotes Natalia Kuldyaeva to head up its global duty free business. Page 3.
Tito’s Handmade Vodka names Diageo’s Nick Cook as managing director for international sales, as John McDonnell announces he will depart at the end of the year. Page 3.
In related news, Tito’s enters Argentina and appoints new distributor in Peru.
TFWA Board elects EssilorLuxottica’s Alessio Crivelli new VP of marketing. Page 3.
Paradies Lagardère appoints John Jamison as president under new leadership structure. Jamison will report to Gregg Paradies, who continues as CEO. Page 4.
TARIFFS
The effect of tariffs on trade is now being felt in the U.S., where imports are declining following a summer surge ahead of deadlines, reports the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates in their September Global Port Tracker. Page 4.
