NETHERLANDS. The European Travel Retail Confederation (ETRC) hosted its annual Business Forum on 1 February in Amsterdam, attracting 135 delegates from over 80 organisations.
The theme for this year’s conference was ‘Expect the unexpected’ which reflected on the turbulent times in an uncertain geopolitical context and a decisive election year.
European Policy Center Chief Economist & Chief Executive Fabian Zuleeg was the key speaker and he reflected on Europe’s global political and economic position in light of forthcoming elections in Europe and the US.
Sustainability and regulatory topics – and how travel retail is equipped to address them – were the focus of a roundtable composed of airports and ETRC policy experts. This included Athens Airport Head of Sustainability and Industry Affairs Anna Vasila; Naples Airport Commercial Consumer Director Sergio Gallorini; ETRC Secretary General Julie Lassaigne and ETRC Senior Counsel Ricardo Oliveira.
The maritime segment was addressed with Tallink Grupp Senior Vice President and Member of the Management Board Piret Mürk-Dubout offering valuable insights into ferry retailing.
Delegates were also introduced to the results of the latest ETRC Business Performance Index, presented by Pi Insight Managing Director Stephen Hillam.
The report was complemented by category insights from a lineup of retailer representatives: Gebr. Heinemann Director Purchasing Perfume & Cosmetics Britta Hoffmann; Lagardère Travel Retail Global Director for Beverages (Spirits, Wine and Champagne) Victoire Gueugnier; Aer Rianta International Global Head of Fashion & Accessories Richard Maynes and Avolta Global Category Head Confectionery, Food, Souvenirs & Toys Philippe Moryl.
The day concluded with an inspirational note by athlete Dame Kelly Holmes, who is remembered as the first woman to win two gold medals for Great Britain at the same Games during the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. She engaged the audience with her story of resilience and transformative lessons.
ETRC President Nigel Keal commented: “We are so pleased that year on year, the ETRC Business Forum continues to attract a large crowd and provides a platform for members to learn, exchange on challenges and best practices, and be inspired.
“We look forward to continue working with our members to identify and promote conditions for a sustainable future for duty free and travel retail in Europe.” ✈
