Introduction: As the travel retail industry marks International Women’s Day 2025, the call to Accelerate Action has never been more urgent. Across the sector, men and women alike are recognising that gender equality requires more than just conversation – it demands real, measurable change.
This year’s theme is a powerful reminder that progress needs action. From ensuring equal opportunities in leadership and mentorship to fostering inclusive work environments, those in the industry are championing initiatives that go beyond International Women’s Day. Whether through company-wide policies, grassroots efforts or personal commitments, they are shaping a future where diversity, equity and inclusion are embedded in the fabric of the workplace.
We asked leaders from across travel retail to share what Accelerate Action means to them. Their voices highlight the industry’s collective determination to break barriers, challenge biases and create a more inclusive future. From driving policy changes to celebrating women’s achievements, these perspectives underscore a shared commitment to ensuring that gender equality is not just an aspiration – but an ongoing reality.
We present those responses in two parts. Click here for Part 1.
Essence Corp Vice President Patricia Bona
The theme of International Women’s Day 2025, Accelerate Action, carries a powerful sense of urgency. It’s not just about pushing the pedal to move faster toward gender equality. It is also a moment to look in the rear mirror and think: are we advancing, or are we moving backward?
Now is the time to act. We must protect the hard-won rights that women have fought for over the past century: equal pay for equal work, access to training and opportunities for recognition and advancement. We excel not because of our gender, but because of our qualifications.
Essence Corp is committed to supporting these principles by offering management and leadership training, foreign language classes, flexible hours with remote-working options, mental health days to encourage work-life balance and an open-door policy, ensuring that all employees, male or female, have the tools they need to succeed.
WiTR+ Chair Sarah Branquinho
This year I will be celebrating International Women’s Day at the Women in Travel Retail (WiTR+) networking meeting that our good friend Lois Pasternak – also WiTR+ Steering Committee member for North America – has organised at IAADFS (in Miami on 8 March, just before the Opening Cocktail).
That event in itself is all about Accelerating Action as all of us involved in WiTR+ work together to help each other to grow in our professional roles. We are now nearing 800 members and have a successful mentoring programme up and running. Ladies, come along and join WiTR+.
A double celebration this year as on 10 March I will be celebrating with the Avolta Miami team.
The Shannon Airport Group CEO Mary Considine
This International Women’s Day, The Shannon Airport Group proudly celebrates women’s achievements in aviation. We were excited to host a Women in Aviation Mid-West Region event at Shannon Airport, uniting women to connect, learn and inspire.
Together, we can create a future where every woman in aviation can soar to new heights. As a Group, we’re committed to Accelerating Action by fostering inclusivity, investing in women’s leadership and promoting gender diversity.
Rémy Cointreau Marketing Director Global Travel Retail Alice Hoffman
For me, International Women’s Day is more than a date on the calendar – it’s a daily commitment to empowerment, progress and action. Accelerating action means empowering my team to take initiative, fostering autonomy and enabling agility in decision-making. In travel retail, where adaptability is key, pushing for creativity and innovation through open dialogue is essential.
Teamwork is what drives real change – when we collaborate, support each other and challenge the status quo, we create momentum. By championing inclusivity and diverse perspectives, we build a dynamic industry where every voice contributes to shaping the future of retail and delivering exceptional experiences for travellers worldwide.
Rémy Cointreau CEO Global Travel Retail Fida Bou Chabke
Diversity, equity and inclusion are not just ideals, they are essential to driving innovation, creativity and long-term success. At Rémy Cointreau, we are committed to fostering an environment where every voice is valued and opportunities are accessible to all. In travel retail, a rapidly evolving industry, embracing diverse perspectives is key to accelerating change and shaping a more inclusive future.
This International Women’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment to breaking barriers, championing equity and ensuring that talent, not background, defines success.
Unifree Duty Free Chief Commercial Officer Ceren Tonguç
At Unifree Duty Free we aim to unlock women’s full potential. On this International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating by not only acknowledging the achievements of women within our organisation but also by taking actionable steps to create a more inclusive and empowering workplace.
We are committed to providing mentorship, promoting gender equality in leadership roles and offering professional development opportunities specifically designed for women. We will accelerate action by amplifying women’s voices and fostering an environment where all can thrive.
Essential Communications Managing Director Rowena Holland
This International Women’s Day, I will celebrate through the rhythm of my own steps, walking along the Northumberland coast in Alnmouth. Each stride represents my independence, my love for nature, the outdoors and the space I find to challenge myself, both physically and mentally. Walking helps me to ‘re-balance’ and I often have my best work ideas during a walk, so we will see what the Northumbrian views bring.
Exploring new places always highlights for me the power of connection – between mind, body and the wild landscapes around me. In every incline and every mile, I find clarity, and I walk forward not just for me, but in celebration of the strength and resilience of all women.
Duty Free Global Chief Operating Officer Nathalie Roelands
It’s wonderful to see The Moodie Davitt Report shining a spotlight on the incredible women in our industry and the steps we’re collectively taking to drive progress.
For this year’s International Women’s Day, I’ll be celebrating in Miami (I hope to meet a lot of industry leading ladies there), during the opening event of Summit of the Americas. Within our organisation, there is a commitment to support every team member long-term with a specific focus on gender equality and ensure progress continues well beyond IWD itself.
Blue Chip Group Managing Director Flora Lee
This International Women’s Day, I’m celebrating the heart and wisdom that I’ve grown as a mother, which has also helped me with my business. As I grow with my family, I know how I can handle my issues at work wisely and how to build sophisticated relationship with my partners. I could not be happier to enjoy the privilege of being a mother and a business owner.
Penfolds Global Travel Global Marketing Manager Lina Lim
This International Women’s Day, I’m proud to champion equity and inclusion through our TWE4SHE initiatives. From breaking taboos with our ‘From Taboo to Talk: Navigating Menopause’ Lunch & Learn to empowering women through our Dress for Success donation drive, our commitment goes beyond just one day – it’s about driving meaningful change every day.
Women in leadership have a responsibility to be stronger supporters, coaches and champions for other women in the workforce at all stages of their career. By lifting each other up, we create a future where equality isn’t just an aspiration but a reality.
iClick Interactive Associate Sales Director Amber Woon
Throughout my career, I’ve had the honour of working alongside incredible women – clients, stakeholders and colleagues – who embody dedication, mentorship and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Their influence has reinforced that true workplace success goes beyond hard work – it’s about cultivating a culture of inclusion, support and empowerment.
Accelerate Action is a powerful reminder to continuously recognise and celebrate the women who drive meaningful change in the workplace. To the women who lead with purpose, inspire transformation and create spaces where others can thrive – your impact is invaluable, and your contributions deserve recognition. This International Women’s Day, let’s honour those whose dedication shapes our workplaces, homes and communities every day.
Sif Jakobs Jewellery Founder & Creative Director Sif Jakobs
International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder of the importance of taking action toward gender equality. At Sif Jakobs Jewellery, we are committed to empowering women – both within our organisation and beyond – by fostering an inclusive workplace, supporting female talent and celebrating women’s achievements every day.
As an international brand, we embrace diversity and ensure that our global team thrives in an environment of equality and opportunity. This year, we continue to Accelerate Action by amplifying women’s voices and championing opportunities for growth and success.
Malaysia Airports Senior General Manager Commercial Services Hani Ezra Hussin
International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder that progress isn’t just about recognition, it’s about meaningful action.
At Malaysia Airports, we are dedicated to fostering an environment where women in leadership don’t just grow in numbers, but in influence and impact.
This means creating real opportunities, amplifying diverse voices and shaping a commercial landscape that champions inclusivity. True change happens when we act with purpose, and that’s how we continue to drive progress.
Liviko Export Marketing Specialist Gloria Hallaste
I enjoy working at Liviko and feel truly appreciated. We value and support everyone, fostering an inclusive and empowering environment. Taking action to drive positive change and create opportunities for all is important to us.
Seeberger International Sales Key Account Manager Erlande Hagenbusch
This IWD, I will celebrate with my family, reflecting on the incredible contributions of women around me. I believe that to Accelerate Action we need to lead with optimistic realism – be consistent in supporting and encouraging women around me to strive in their personal, professional and mutual pursuits. Not just on IWD but every day.
Neuhaus Travel Retail & Business Development Director Alexandra Bevernage
In travel retail, women are not just shaping journeys – they are redefining destinations. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the vision, resilience and leadership of women driving the industry forward, creating a more inclusive and inspiring world for all.
Like the finest Belgian chocolate, the women of travel retail bring richness, smoothness and joy to have a sweet impact across the world. We will accelerate action through empowering women at Neuhaus wherever they are based.
La Prairie Business Development Director Global Travel Retail Sabine Fagan
For me, feminism is about believing that women’s potential has no limit, especially when it comes to challenging the status quo and shaping a better future. As such, every woman should not only thrive but lead with great confidence, embracing who she truly is.
In a more challenging context for the beauty industry in 2025, I’m more committed than ever to driving change by consistently showing positivity and boldness to explore new paths and make an impact. At the same time, I will strive to cultivate a trustworthy and empowering environment where my team can bring out the best in themselves.
Ajmal Perfumes Travel Retail Manage Sylvia Vasile
On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the women who inspire, lead and drive change across the travel retail industry. At Ajmal Travel Retail, we are committed to Accelerating Action by fostering an inclusive environment where women’s voices are heard, their achievements are celebrated and their potential fully realised. Through mentorship, equal opportunities and proactive support, we are working together to create a more equitable future for all.
Ajmal Perfumes Head – People & Culture Trisha Gulati
Empowered women don’t just break barriers – they build legacies. At Ajmal Perfumes, women have always been the pillar of our success. This International Women’s Day, we are celebrating their contributions with a special yacht party, honouring their dedication and excellence.
True to this year’s theme Accelerate Action, we have made significant strides – over the last two years, our female workforce has grown +25%, and the representation of women in leadership roles has increased significantly from 10% to 30%. We remain committed to fostering an inclusive and empowering workplace where women continue to thrive and lead. We are not just Accelerating Action – we are shaping a future where women rise, thrive and leave an indelible mark on the world.
Areas Chief Corporate Officer Montse Adán Cros
At Areas, just as we carefully blend ingredients to achieve the perfect taste, we cultivate a workplace that mirrors the diversity of the communities we serve – promoting fair opportunities for all and building an inclusive culture where differences are valued.
Areas is determined to eliminate gender stereotypes and biases by providing equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender, with a strong commitment to empowering women to excel in leadership roles across our company.
Babor Beauty Group Director Travel Retail Lara Schlüter
Babor Beauty Group is accelerating action on diversity, equity and inclusion with an in-house Changemaker programme. Women, with their entrepreneurial mindset and their passion for making a difference, are shaping the future of our company.
At Babor Beauty Group we believe that the diversity of opinions makes us stronger. As part of this initiative, we strive to achieve a gender balance in leadership positions as soon as possible – and we are almost there: 47% of all positions with leadership responsibilities are occupied by women. To us it is important to not only accelerate action on IWD, but every day.
Mazaya Head of Global Travel Retail Rawan Elayyan
This International Women’s Day I’m celebrating by reflecting on the incredible strength and resilience of women everywhere, and taking time to honour the women who inspire me daily.
My effort within the organisation towards Accelerating Action is to collaborate with other divisions to establish a women’s empowerment network that fosters an environment where women can share insights, amplify their voices and work together towards achieving their goals and thriving in the organisation.
Barton & Guestier Trade Marketing & Communications Manager Petra Frebault
On International Women’s Day, it is essential to come together – because while fighting alone can be challenging, uniting together gives our actions greater meaning and impact. This year, let’s turn awareness into action. I invite all who read these lines to make a donation to IWD, Women for Women International or any organisation that supports women in need. Even a small contribution can help provide education, safety and opportunities to those who need them most. Together, we can make a difference.
Elizabeth Arden Asia Pacific Travel Retail General Manager Yumie Chia
Being a woman with multi-faceted roles, I will give myself a pat on the back and celebrate the milestones I have achieved with my favourite dessert.
In terms of Accelerating Action, our organisation strongly believes in and exercises gender equality and an inclusive culture. Everyone’s opinions and feelings are highly respected. Equal opportunities are given to everyone.
Scent of Africa Sales Manager Loice Muforo
Accelerating Action in the perfume industry begins with empowering women to lead, innovate and thrive. By breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity, we unlock untapped potential and drive transformative change.
Women bring creativity, resilience and a unique perspective to every aspect of the industry – from sourcing to storytelling. Let’s champion equal opportunities, amplify diverse voices and create a future where sustainability and success go hand in hand. When women rise, the entire industry flourishes. Together, we can redefine the fragrance landscape, ensuring it reflects the strength, elegance and vision of the women who shape it. The time for action is now.
Essence Corp Executive Director Lilo Fuentes
Women in travel retail not only travel the world, but we also shape it with passion and purpose. The constant change inspires us to Accelerate Actions, driving innovation together with our commercial partners. Success is better and bigger when shared.
Majorica Export Area Manager Xilef Grateron
For me, International Women’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar – it’s a reminder of the everyday contributions of women. At Majorica, I am celebrating the talented artisans, colleagues and friends whose dedication and skill shape our work.
Women play a fundamental role in every part of life. They nurture, lead and support their families, their teams, and their communities. Respecting and valuing their contributions should come naturally.
Every day, we do what we do for our families, for our dreams and for the future. Let’s continue to recognise and support the women around us – not just today, but always.
Diageo Commercial Director APAC, MENA and India Sandra Tassilly
At Diageo, we understand the importance of an intersectional approach to building a truly inclusive culture where everyone can thrive. This year, we’re combining our annual Accelerating Inclusive Culture Week and International Women’s Day celebrations, bringing together diverse voices from inside and outside the company to share their experiences.
I’m excited to learn and be inspired as we celebrate the progress we’ve made on gender equality and keep pushing for more through our business, our people and our brands. Our Dial Up Behaviours and more precisely Collaborate Efficiently empower each of us to take action.
Templemere PR CEO and Founder Clare Williams Fannin
International Women’s Day is a great time to give thanks to the women who went before us to create an environment in which many of the barriers to personal and professional fulfilment my mother faced are not things that my own daughter needs to consider.
But there’s still a way to go. In my own sector of PR, across the industry 60% of practitioners are women. However, this number falls to 46% at director level, and the issues behind why senior women quit the workforce need to be addressed.
At Templemere PR, we take great pride in bringing talented women into PR and communications. For a number of years, we’ve been part of an apprenticeship programme run by the Public Relations and Communications Association, and we’ve worked with Birmingham and Leeds Beckett universities to offer paid work placements to promising PR students.
To help everyone take those all-important next steps, all our team members are allocated a training budget and their career progress is carefully monitored to ensure they are fully prepared for their next role. In addition, family-friendly benefits such as paid sabbatical leave and hybrid working policy supports women as their career progresses.
Thélios Head of Corporate Communications Agathe Zakarian
International Women’s Day is, for me, an occasion to celebrate the numerous battles women have fought for their rights. It is also a moment to reflect on what still needs to be achieved to attain true gender equality. A significant aspect of it today takes place in the workplace.
I am actively involved in the OWA, the Optical Women’s Association, contributing to its expansion in Europe. At Thélios, we celebrate International Women’s Day annually in our international offices, providing all our employees, regardless of gender, with a convivial moment while highlighting the achievements of great female minds. For instance, last year we gifted the essay ‘We Should All Be Feminists’ by Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, a true source of inspiration which I believe has the power to accelerate action.
Maestrani Senior KAM BD Avelines & Travel Retail Faozia Math-Ly-Roun
I’m very grateful to have been able to meet such inspiring, enterprising and supportive women and men of all nationalities and from different backgrounds in this dynamic sector of travel retail over the last few years.
The road is sometimes long and full of pitfalls, but with patience, perseverance, confidence, action and passion, women can achieve great things. Each of us has our own path to follow, and any model is possible.
I do everything I can to learn more every day. Even if I sometimes encounter setbacks I keep moving forward, experiencing and trying and, above all, I pass on and share what I can, especially to young women.
Coccinelle Travel Retail
This international Women’s Day we wish that all women in travel retail enjoy a day that celebrates how strong, beautiful and incredible they are.
PeppaRose Creative Director & Founder Jacqueline Lampert
International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the talented women artisans who bring our designs to life. We partner with manufacturers in Nepal and Italy where skilled craftswomen are integral to our production process.
In Nepal specifically, our collaboration supports women from local villages, providing stable, local employment that allows them to provide for and remain with their families rather than seeking work abroad. This meaningful employment directly contributes to their children’s education and enhances overall community livelihoods.
Accelerating Action for us means deepening intentional partnerships while also advancing sustainable and ethical production methods – combining cutting-edge printing technology with the multigenerational cashmere expertise of Nepalese artisans.
We’re committed to ensuring that heritage and innovation work hand-in-hand, creating a supply chain where women’s economic empowerment and exceptional skills drive a more equitable future.
Borghese COO Dawn Hilarczyk
Princess Marcella Borghese was a visionary who redefined beauty through innovation and empowerment. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we honour her legacy by launching the La Bella Figura Award, a tribute to the inspiring women who embody her spirit today. This initiative is more than recognition – it is a call to action, encouraging women to uplift, celebrate and nominate one another for recognition. Through their stories, we continue accelerating progress and shaping a future where every woman’s strength and impact is seen and celebrated.
2.0 & Partners Senior Partner Vittoria Passoni
I am very lucky to have grown up in an environment where women have always been celebrated as equal, capable, resilient and powerful. My first professional experience was in the hospitality industry, a world where I had the privilege of working alongside women from all over the globe who were strong, determined and exemplary leaders. These women were my role models.
In travel retail, just like in hospitality, women play a fundamental role in shaping experiences, driving innovation and leading with vision. ✈
