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We at TMI are looking forward to seeing friends and colleagues at the IAADFS Summit of the Americas this weekend.
Be sure to check out the excellent series of conference sessions that the Association has organized. There are four sessions spread over two days. See the schedule and line-up on page 4.
AVIATION & NUMBERS
In part 2 of our coverage of the latest Duty Free World Council’s full-year 2025 Global Monitor, we report on the healthy air passenger traffic that surpassed 2024 levels by 7%.
But the aviation industry may have a serious hurdle to overcome this year to match the 2025 results considering the impact that the U.S.-Israel war against Iran is having on airline capacity in the Middle East – and beyond, according to OAG’s latest figures. See both reports on page 1.
While U.S. domestic air traffic was holding relatively steady in the beginning of this year, international arrivals continue to decline, and remain below the pre-pandemic level, reports the U.S. Travel Association. Page 2.
Congratulations to Vancouver International Airport, which was ranked the Best Airport in North America for record 15th year by Skytrax and 10th Best Airport in the World. No other airport has ever won the award 15 times. See full story on page 2.
The Frontier Duty Free Association pleads with the Canadian government for assistance for land border duty free stores as cross-border travel falls for 13 months in a row. Page 2.
CRUISE
Azamara Cruises and Milam & Greene embark on a “Bourbon Quest.” Page 3.
Toschi’s Dubai inspired Chocolate Cream Liqueur named a finalist at the 2026 F&B@Sea awards. Page 3
CONCESSIONS
WHSmith North America was honored at the 2026 AXN Awards for creating authentic, locally inspired retail spaces in airports throughout the United States. Page 4.
SUPPLY SIDE: BEAUTY
In a mega-deal that could have major reverberations across the beauty industry, the Estée Lauder Companies Inc. and Barcelona-based beauty group Puig have confirmed that they are in discussions regarding a potential collaboration in which the two companies would merge their businesses. Page 5.
SUPPLY SIDE: CONFECTIONERY
The Hershey Company is bringing the Reese’s and OREO® collaboration into Travel Retail Americas, after building on a strong domestic performance in the United States. The Reese’s OREO® Cup will be unveiled at the Summit of the Americas, launching across Travel Retail Americas from mid-March. Page 5.
Ferrero is reinforcing its core portfolio focus in the Americas. Ferrero Travel Market will be at IAADFS on the Otis McAllister stand (Booth 111). See more on page 6.
Storck Travel Retail targets accelerated Americas growth through B&S. Page 6.
