Moodie Davitt Live: On location at TFWA World Exhibition : Moodie Davitt Report

FRANCE. Welcome to Moodie Davitt Live, our rolling coverage of last week’s TFWA World Exhibition in Cannes (27 September-1 October).

Once again The Moodie Davitt Report team attended the show in force to bring you highlights of the week in words, photos and video, in association with our partners The Shilla Duty Free Singapore, PMI Global Travel Retail and Bath & Body Works.

THURSDAY 1 OCTOBER

Speaking on film in joint conversation outside Le Palais des Festivals – venue for the TFWA World Exhibition & Conference, the duo talked about their individual and collective journeys.

Davitt said, “Today, we have a transition in terms of management after many, many years – 24 years going into 25 in 2027 – Martin since you founded the company and led it to such great heights.

“I am taking over as CEO, a move about which I’m hugely humbled and honoured. And obviously you’re staying with us for what I hope will be a long, long time and will help guide our fortunes into the future.”

Moodie replied, “Dermot, you and I have been to so many of these shows down the years, and it’s kind of poignant that it’s the final day of the [TFWA World Exhibition] trade show, and we’re seeing this transition and handover today.

“This transition is very important to my legacy, having founded the company that I’m not leaving but shaping very strongly for the future. You have worked with me since the mid ’90s, initially at Duty-Free News International when everything was about print.

“And then, of course at The Moodie Davitt Report, as it is now called, which is all about multimedia. Dermot and I have really shaped that together. You have been very much part of the journey since 2006 and what a ride we’ve had.

“We’ve become the market leader, we’ve ridden through a few storms – the biggest of them all, of course, being COVID – and we’re still standing.

“And for me to step away from the CEO role, but remain Founder, which I’ll always be, and Chairman and see the business in such good hands – not just with Dermot, but with an amazing team behind him – makes me feel really proud.”

**Martin Moodie and Dermot Davitt have been colleagues (apart from a brief 2002-2006 gap) over a remarkable 30-year span**

Moodie reinforced that message, adding, “My feelings today are all about pride in what we have created. As I have told the story many times, we started from my garden shed in west London. We launched a six-page PDF on 16 September 2002, and to see what we’ve created since is just absolutely remarkable. And we haven’t stopped yet.”

Davitt added: “Many of our strengths revolve around areas like reach, reputation and remaining relevant. That’s going to be part of our drive – to make sure our reach is extended and maintained, our reputation is enhanced and I want to nurture the great relationships in the industry along with you and the rest of the team. And of course, that we remain hugely relevant.

“That means ideas, innovation, continuing to do many of the things we’ve been known for over the years, and staying one step ahead of the other industry media.”

Click on the YouTube icon above to hear the whole conversation.

The quality quartet on the right represents some 170 years of duty-free industry experience. After a fascinating conversation over coffee with Inflight Sales Group Founder Jean-Marcel Rouff (photo left), Martin Moodie joined fellow travel retail pioneers Rakhita Jayawardena (King Power Traveler) and Antares Cheng (King Power Group Hong Kong and King Power Duty Free, Thailand) for a memorable keepsake photo of TFWA World Exhibition 2026.

**Epitomising genuine travel retail friendship over the years: Martin Moodie, Antares Cheng, David Spillane and Rakhita Jayawardena enjoy a fun final night in Cannes**

Raising a glass: The Moodie Davitt Report team unwind after an exhilarating week in Cannes. From left are Hannah Tan, Christelle Hill, Ameesha Raizada, Dermot Davitt, Martin Moodie, Alexander Roux, Irene Revilla, and Irene’s partner, Roberto, with Coco the Poochon.

**Final dash: Martin Moodie and Dermot Davitt joined forces for a late extra push on the bikes, helping take the #KickCancerThon total to be donated by TFWA beyond a hugely impressive €15,000**

**High five for a great cause: Jonathan (Chaps) Holland, MD of Jonathan Holland & Associates, and The Moodie Davitt Report’s Aran Turner clock up the kilometres for #KickCancerThon**

**Marathon women: Our brilliant show reporters Ameesha Raizada (left) and Hannah Tan finally take the weight off their feet after four gruelling days pounding the halls of TFWA World Exhibition**

Update: TFWA cycles for #KickCancerThon

You may recall yesterday we were creeping in on €10,000 as TFWA World Exhibition delegates took to the stationary bikes on the parvis outside the Palais des Festivals to help raise vital funds for the cancer research programme at The Royal Marsden Hospital.

As reported, TFWA is donating €10 for every kilometre cycled, transforming delegates’ participation into direct financial support for cancer research, with every rotation contributing to the overall fundraising effort.

We are pleased to share that not only have we hit the €10,000 mark, but we have smashed through it to hit a current total (at the time of writing) of €12,618. The Moodie Davitt Report Brands Director Hannah Tan (pictured below, right) was joined by our acclaimed Chinese columnist Yilin Wang as she waited her turn on the bikes, watching on as two delegates put in a great shift to cover 10km each (pictured below).

The Moodie Davitt Report Founder and Chairman Martin Moodie has committed to a further 15km after lending his pedal power earlier in the week – come along and join him and let’s see how high we can push this total for #KickCancerThon.

**The enthusiasm and support from the travel retail community has been incredible and heartwarming, as these two delegates took to the bikes to complete 10km each**

4pm

Quintessential Brands Group Regional Sales Director for Global Travel Retail Oliver Storrie (left) and European Travel Retail Manager Rosies Summers-Haywood explain the background to an updated Dublin Liberties Irish whiskey offer

The Austrian crystal house Swarovski earlier this year pledged 10% of proceeds from its TREX Symbolica collection to #KickCancerThon. Our Brands Director Hannah Tan (second from left) paid the generous brand a visit today and is pictured with (from left) Swarovski Head of Global Travel Retail Isla Daw, Head of Travel Retail Americas Martin Ortiz de Rozas and Global Head of Wholesale Andreea Marginean.

**Bollinger Group Global Travel Retail Manager Antonin Ottenheimer de Gail showcases the latest expression from Cognac Delamain**

3pm

**Gulf Pacific’s Gary Leong, business development consultant to Coeur de Lion, with the brand’s Head of Travel Retail Europe & Asia Ana Vassallo**

**Sif Jakobs is promoting her eponymous jewellery brand at the show**

Caudalie APAC Key Account Manager Perrine Delmas and General Manager of Global Travel Retail Benoît Davaillon share how the brand recently expanded its Asia Pacific profile with launches in Auckland and Sydney as well as Singapore

2.30pm

**Stay tuned for an upcoming Moodie Davitt Showtime interview between Brands Director Hannah Tan and Babor Beauty Group Director Travel Retail EMEA Lara Schluter (right)**

2pm

**Travel Retail Expert Eric Carlier and Fauchon Global Chief Commercial Officer Sandrine Girault show off the French luxury gourmet food and delicatessen brand’s latest offerings**

1pm

Stay tuned for a future episode of Redefining the Flightpath, when The Moodie Davitt Report Brands Director Hannah Tan sits down with Naos Global Travel Retail and Expansion Manager Irina Beltcheva (above right)

**Spin to win: Kurate International Logistics & Stock Coordinator Aine O’Kane (left) and Marketing Executive Leanne Selfridge invite delegates to spin the wheel (below) with goodie bags up for grabs**

12pm

Venchi, which recently made its UK airport debut at London Gatwick, presents its renowned Italian chocolate craftsmanship at the show. Head of Key Accounts Sara Schiavon says she is looking forward to The Trinity Forum in March.

11.30am

TFWA President Sarah Branquinho (second left) addresses the media at the Palais des Festivals, confirming that the World Exhibition & Conference will return to Cannes from 3-7 October 2027 and outlining changes to the association’s board. Full details will follow shortly on The Moodie Davitt Report website, so stay tuned.

“We are part way through our brand journey,” says Branquinho as she reflects on the association’s refreshed visual identity in Cannes. The revamp introduces a new symbol and ‘Shaping Travel Retail’ positioning, with the updated look set to roll out across TFWA’s website and other platforms in the coming months.

She also urges delegates to get pedalling for #KickCancerThon, with TFWA donating €10 to The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity for every kilometre cycled on the bikes outside the Palais. The total passed €11,000 by the time of today’s media gathering. She says, “We’re counting on you to make it up to 12 or 13 by this afternoon.”

11am

**The Moodie Davitt Report Strategic Partnerships Lead Christelle Hill (right) drops in to catch up with Emirates Pride Travel Retail Manager Miram Gomaa**

10am

An array of colours: Mandarina Duck Head of Merchandising Federica Stefanelli (left) and Franchising & Travel Retail Manager Silvia Rossi highlight the brand’s colourful collection. A new range is in the pipeline for next year to mark the brand turning 50 years old.

The Bric’s team says the family-owned company, which will mark 75 years in 2027, is expanding in India and Saudi Arabia. Pictured here, from left, are Travel Retail Manager Michele Maccapani, Head of Marketing & Communication Luisa Puggioni and CEO Attilio Briccola.

The Association Française du Travel Retail (AFTR) today presented details of a major study that sizes and profiles the French market, which will provide an invaluable tool in conversations with government and tourism authorities about the contribution made by the sector.

Board members (pictured above) took part in a session with selected media (including The Moodie Davitt Report) this morning at the Chanel booth in Cannes to outline the key information, with full details to follow.

Making its TFWA Cannes debut is RéVive Skincare, represented here by, from left, Integrated Marketing Manager Isabella Hudanich, Global Training Director and Elite Esthetician Klaudia Wachowski, and Chief Operating Officer Qiu Hong Lin. The brand is growing in Asia with stores opening in Macau this week. More to follow.

**Hosting delegates at Noblewood Group’s beautiful stand and showcasing Oyster gin is Head of Travel Retail Vladimir Poriadin**

9am

The new Fendi collection is central to Thelios’ showcase at this year’s TFWA World Exhibition. Head of Travel Retail Alessandro Eucaliptus, pictured here with The Moodie Davitt Report Brands Director Hannah Tan, shares the company’s plans to focus on the eyewear brand in travel retail amid recent double-digit growth.

**Cover stars: Diptyque Area Manager Travel Retail Nhu Y Tran (left) strikes a pose with The Moodie Davitt Report’s Hannah Tan and Irene Revilla as she talks about the brand’s holiday line**

(Above and below) As Furla prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary next year, the Italian premium accessories brand is showcasing a new collection in Cannes. As reported, travel retail store launches are planned for the Maldives this month and Dubai in January.

**Juvé & Camps International Sales Manager Catarina Soares hosts a tasting session as the company marks its 50th anniversary this year**

Publisher and Managing Director Irene Revilla becomes the latest Moodie Davitt Report team member to add her pedal power to the TFWA’s fundraising effort for #KickCancerThon. The association has pledged to donate €10 for every kilometre cycled to the cancer research programme at The Royal Marsden Hospital. Today is your last chance to be a part of something special on the parvis outside the Palais des Festivals.

Readers’ competition

“Avez-vous une table pour neuf antipodean travel retail rock stars, s’il vous plait?”

And indeed, the popular Le Marais restaurant (a long way) up the hill in the Suquet old town of Cannes made room for this ennead (i.e. a gathering of nine mythological figures, like the nine Greek muses) ensemble. After all, how could you turn such immaculately tailored talent away?

These, however, are very real, not mythological, travel retail personalities. But who are they?

**The Antipodean travel retail rockstars ennead ensemble lights up the Old Town**

The reader who names (clockwise from bottom left) the most identities behind the rock star personas wins two fabulous bottles of spirits and a top-class wine.

Send your entries to Dermot Davitt (not in the picture as he is already a rock star) at Dermot@MoodieDavittReport.com headed ‘Antipodean travel Retail Rockstars’. Competition closes next Monday.

It was a proud moment earlier this week for The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie as he received a special presentation from Avolta CEO Xavier Rossinyol to mark Martin’s stepping down as CEO from 1 October

As reported, Martin will retain his Chairman role and continue to lead the company’s Asia Pacific operations and its burgeoning Moodie Davitt STUDIO division. Rossinyol presented Moodie with a Montblanc fountain pen engraved thoughtfully ‘Ever Onward’, a reference to the latter’s allusional description of his plans by quoting from Peter Pan in The Moodie Blog. “Onward, ever onward, till hunger and sleep beckoned”, which captures the timeless tireless journey of Peter Pan, Wendy, John and Michael as they fly past the stars following Peter’s directions: “Second to the right, and straight on ’til morning.”

**Look out for a compelling film interview with Xavier Rossinyol, coming soon**

WEDNESDAY 30 SEPTEMBER

10pm

Qatar Duty Free captures the Frontier Award for Best Airport Retailer, a huge accolade amid a challenging year; below, an emotional moment as long-time Essentials Communications Director Editorial & Key Accounts Rowena Holland is recognised with the Outstanding Contribution Award in association with Dubai Duty Free

8pm

Lagardère Travel Retail attracted a strong guest list of airport and brand partners to its second annual cocktail on Wednesday night in Cannes; pictured centre is CEO West, Central & East Africa Sountou Bousso with Dermot Davitt (left) and Mondelez WTR Vice President and Managing Director Joost Rosmuller

5pm

Penfolds Brand Ambassador EMEA & Luxury Sales UK & Europe Toby Amphlett leads a tasting across the Treasury Wine Estates portfolio, including Penfolds Bin 707, described as a leading expression of South Australian Cabernet Sauvignon, alongside Grange 2022, DAOU Soul of a Lion and travel retail-exclusive (TREX) Patrimony Caves des Lions

Our Brands Director Hannah Tan caught up with L’Oréal Travel Retail Luxe Division General Manager Danièle Lahana-Aidenbaum today to record the latest episode of *Redefining the Flightpath*, the Moodie Davitt podcast featuring candid conversations with female founders, changemakers and senior leaders in travel retail. Danièle reflected on her 20-year career with L’Oréal and discussed the pivotal role of Luxe in advancing the beauty giant’s ambition to transform travel retail into an “entertainment destination”.

We visited fashion jewellery brand Nadri’s team, which is showcasing new lines at their stand (product examples in the image below). Pictured above are (from left) Nadri Vice President Design and Product Development Renee Stonebraker, Vice President of Sales Stephanie Miano and Director of Marketing Kolleen Meeker.

EviDenS de Beauté Commercial Director Frédéric Carrera and International Operational Marketing Product Manager Julie Hui speak to The Moodie Davitt Report’s Ameesha Raizada about the brand’s focus on quality over quantity, from product development to its measured expansion in travel retail. Stay tuned for the full interview.

**The Moodie Davitt Report’s Irene Revilla shares a Milka moment with the brand’s mascot on the Mondelez World Travel Retail stand**

4pm

A behind-the-scenes snapshot of Travel Blue Managing Director Daniel Levin (seated, left) chatting with The Moodie Davitt Report Founder and Chairman Martin Moodie, with filming by Moodie Davitt STUDIO Filmmaker Alexander Roux. The company is rolling out a new generation of travel pillows at the TFWA World Exhibition – read our report here.

3pm

The Hershey Company Strategic Marketing, Innovation, Communications & Brand Management Carol Iskander (right) poses with The Moodie Davitt Report Strategic Partnerships Lead Christelle Hill. The company is showcasing its revamped travel retail-exclusive (TREX) portfolio at the show.

Paul & Shark Head of Sales Europe and Global Travel Retail and Chiara Di Matteo (left) and Chief Commercial Officer Silvia Popescu, cover star of our just-published Category Insight focusing on Fashion and Jewellery & Watches in travel retail, are pictured on the brand’s stand at the TFWA World Exhibition. Access the publication, held in the image by Silvia, via this link.

**Vivel Founder Shahnaz Bagherzadeh and General Manager Ehsan Hosseini (above) present the luxury Persian-influenced confectionery brand’s latest offerings (below)**

Dubai-based premium confectionery and gifting specialist Vivel has unveiled the London Collection, the latest chapter in the company’s growing travel retail offering.

Created around the concept ‘A Taste of London, Reimagined’, the collection brings together 12 products and 12 original illustrated stories, combining British confectionery traditions and contemporary flavour combinations with Vivel’s playful approach to destination storytelling.

The London Collection is the latest in the Vivel Voyage line, which brings together the flavours, ingredients, formats, original artwork and storytelling that represent an authentic connection to the different places it represents.

2.35pm

Closing in on €10,000: The Moodie Davitt Report’s Ameesha Raizada covers an impressive 5km as she helps push up the fundraising total for #KickCancerThon – TFWA has pledged to donate €10 for every kilometre cycled to the cancer research programme at The Royal Marsden Hospital. Come and help us hit that five-figure mark on the parvis outside the Palais des Festivals.

2pm

**Coty Senior Vice President, Global Travel Retail Mette Engell shares with Hannah Tan updates on the company’s coty.curated strategy and upcoming new brand launches, including Etro and Swarovski**

Nice Airport Chief Commercial Officer Candice Cadreils hosts guests at the airport company’s annual Cannes lunch, and outlines exciting plans for a terminal expansion plus a major food & beverage tender spanning 5,500sq m of space. Full details to follow.

1pm

From left: Joseph Ribkoff Global Business Development and Events Manager Rebecca Forsyth and Vice President Global Sales and Business Development Nadine Clour say the brand is focusing on cruise. Clour spoke to us recently about learnings from recent openings at Auckland and Cairns airports, the brand’s evolving fashion proposition and the role travel retail can play in reaching a new generation of consumers. Read the full interview here. Clour features in the image below, mid-conversation with The Moodie Davitt Report Managing Editor Ameesha Raizada.

(Above and below) Kashkha Design Director Daniela Farinetti and Business Development Manager Aashish Bajaj showcase the brand’s new products, designed by local artists and presented in boxes that resemble books

12.30pm

MEADFA board members Dr Munif Mohammed, Abdeslam Agzoul (President) and Nuno Amaral present details of the association’s activities in a difficult year, and promote the forthcoming MEADFA Conference in Rabat, Morocco. More to follow.

12pm

**Famille Perrin is showcasing the latest addition to its portfolio, premium French juice brand Alain Milliat. Pictured is Famille Perrin Export Director Florian Garrigues.**

Razan Al Masri, Chief Business Development Officer at Notions Global, which represents Dubai-based Chocodate, sits down for a chat with The Moodie Davitt Report Managing Editor Ameesha Raizada (right), filmed by Moodie Davitt STUDIO Filmmaker Alexander Roux (middle of picture)

11am

Nice to meet you: Hannah Tan is introduced to the L’Oréal Travel Retail robot, Milo, an engaging talking assistant designed to captivate travellers, building memorable experiential retail moments as they journey through the airport

Coccinelle Head of International Markets & Global Travel Retail Giada Cappelletti highlights the brand’s Moroccan-inspired collection and expansion to new markets such as India and Egypt. The brand has also recently launched an eyewear line. Read our full report here.

10am

TFWA Dailies Publisher Paul Hogan (right) and The Moodie Davitt Report President Dermot Davitt race each other on stationary bikes in support of #KickCancerThon today in Cannes. TFWA has pledged to donate €10 for every kilometre cycled to the cancer research programme at The Royal Marsden Hospital – come and show us your pedal power and help raise funds for a great cause.

9am

**L’Oréal Travel Retail President Eva Yu (left) welcomes The Moodie Davitt Report Brands Director Hannah Tan to L’Oréal’s morning media briefing**

Mars Wrigley International Travel Retail Market Director An De Volder says the opportunity for confectionery goes well beyond attracting attention. “It’s beyond having the stopping power, which also means making sure that there’s enough staying power. We create momentum for shoppers to engage throughout their shopping journey.”

**Miss Purple brings a playful M&M’S touch to the Mars Wrigley showcase in Cannes**

**Last night saw a special occasion as Regent Travel Retail Group Founder & Chairman Jose Maria ‘Chim’ Esteban celebrated his 70th birthday in style at Villa Archange – Bastide Bruno Oger**

**The Moodie Davitt Report Founder and Chairman Martin Moodie (left) shares a personal moment with Chim and daughter Celina as the celebrations continue**

The Moodie Davitt Report’s Irene Revilla (centre) catches up with L’Oréal Travel Retail Asia Pacific Managing Director Jesús Abia (left) and Vice President Communication and Engagement Delphine Nathan as the team gets set for their press event

The Duty Free Global duo of Nathalie Roelands and Brenna Klomp lend their support for cancer fundraising and visibility campaign #KickCancerThon, as they put in the kilometres on special bikes installed by TFWA on the parvis outside the Palais des Festivals; every kilometre covered adds to the funds raised for The Royal Marsden Hospital in London

Reflections on a memorable panel organised by The Moodie Davitt Report on Tuesday, with PMI Global Travel Retail as host; talking transformation, tech and the future of the industry were (from left) Swarovski Head of Global Wholesale Channel Management Andreea Marginean; Rémy Cointreau CEO Global Travel Retail Carlos Radulovitch; Nestlé International Travel Retail General Manager Frédéric Porchet; PMI GTR Vice President Beste Ermaner; The Moodie Davitt Report President Dermot Davitt; Geneva Airport Chief Commercial Officer Kristina Mees; EssilorLuxottica Global Travel Retail Director Alessio Crivelli; and ETRC President Nigel Keal. Highlights to follow.

**Dermot Davitt talks loyalty, marketing and ecommerce with Qatar Airways Group Chief Retail & Hospitality Officer Thabet Musleh; full story to follow**

TUESDAY 29 SEPTEMBER

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8pm

Guests at niche Italian fragrance house Tiziana Terenzi’s ‘Art of Scent’ event at Plage Mademoiselle Gray are treated to an entertaining live performance by traditional singers. Read our recent story about the brand’s partnership with ATÜ Duty Free to introduce the travel retail exclusive (TREX), Tılsım **here**.

**Our Brands Director Hannah Tan (left) dropped in on Shiseido’s cocktail event in Cannes this evening and met with Managing Director Global Travel Retail Adele Zhang**

7pm

Noblewood Group Head of Travel Retail Vladimir Poriadin (centre) discusses Oyster gin and what’s next for the brand with The Moodie Davitt Report Strategic Partnerships Lead Christelle Hill (left) and Managing Editor Ameesha Raizada

The Moodie Davitt Report Senior International Account Manager Aran Turner (right) enjoys an evening with friends and contacts at an event hosted by Travel Retail Fine Wine Alliance on Plage La Mandala. They include utu’s Ameer Jumabhoy (left), Gulf Pacific’s Gary Leong (third from right) and Duty Free Global’s Barry Geoghegan (second from right).

A great cocktail event is hosted by PMI Global Travel Retail onboard its Cannes yacht this evening. Our Brands Director Hannah Tan was there with Estée Lauder’s Umair Ansari (above) and PMI’s Beste Ermaner (below).

5pm

There is a tremendous attendance for the annual Cannes Women in Travel Retail+ (WiTR+) event, hosted by Brown-Forman. TFWA President Sarah Branquinho addresses the audience (above), as updates on WiTR’s admirable fundraising efforts are shared. Below, The Moodie Davitt Report women are in high spirits for the occasion: (from left) Christelle Hill, Ameesha Raizada, Hannah Tan and Irene Revilla.

Swiss chocolate house Goldkenn stage a media event to introduce two cocktail-inspired chocolate tablets. The brand’s new 100g Cocktail range comprises Margarita and Mojito variants, developed in collaboration with Cointreau and Mount Gay Rum, respectively.

4pm

**The Scent of Africa team presents a new chapter for the brand with the Akua’ba fragrance collection, drawing on African mythology, architecture and symbolism across its Cannes showcase**

Scent of Africa Operations Manager Ayla Tissot highlights the Akua’ba doll, a symbol rooted in Ghana’s Akan culture and associated with fertility, hope and beauty. “This is a new beginning for Scent of Africa,” she says.

Osborne Global Travel Retail Manager Cathy Aumiaux unveils the company’s latest gastronomic concepts in partnership with Avolta, including the Toro Tapas airport dining offering. Bringing together Spanish spirits & wine and gastronomy, more details will be revealed soon.

**Cathy Aumiaux toasts Osborne’s showing in Cannes with Trade Activation & Area Manager Lucas Gailhac**

**Representatives from Avolta and Osborne, including Cathy Aumiaux (second from right) and Avolta CEO Southern Europe Isabel Zarza (second from left), celebrate their gastronomical collaboration**

3pm

Dolce & Gabbana Beauty Chief Executive Officer Gianluca Toniolo discusses taking back ownership of the famous brand’s beauty business and its recent performance with our Brands Director Hannah Tan in a video interview for Moodie Davitt Showtime. Stay tuned for the full interview, coming soon.

Clarins Group Global Marketing Director, Travel Retail Sandrine Tesniere (left) and Global General Manager Katalin Berenyi (centre) tell Hannah Tan of the brand’s Double Serum Foundation and its roaring success in the channel.

Gifts of kindness: KOSÉ Travel Retail Senior Executive Officer Keita Matsunami (left) and President and CEO Hiroto Kitaki (right) present The Moodie Davitt Report Chairman Martin Moodie with a special engraved bottle from the Decorté line

**The Moodie Davitt Report and the PMI Global Travel Retail team gather for a roundtable discussion dedicated to the theme of ‘Travel Retail Transformation’ onboard the Hat Mill Yacht**

Cartwright & Butler is taking British teatime global, supported by more than 30 product and format innovations this year. Global Travel Retail Business Development Manager Julie Feryn (left) says: “Travel retail is going to be a big part of our journey. We have some super retail partners, including Avolta, which has been a really important part of that journey. We also have a great relationship with Lagardère Travel Retail, which allows us to retain that artisanal feel, while WHSmith gives us access to a really broad mix of consumers.”

**Mont Blanc Vodka Head of Travel Retail Victoria Leonova at the brand’s stand**

Nestlé International Travel Retail has doubled down on its focus on Gen Z travellers with new KitKat innovations, travel-exclusive (TREX) packaging and immersive in-store experiences. Head of Marketing Aura Sánchez (pictured) says the aim is to turn strong category interest into conversion.

**The Moodie Davitt Report Managing Editor Ameesha Raizada (left) tries her hand at the KitKat x Formula 1 racing simulator**

Qatar Airways Group Chief Retail & Hospitality Officer Thabet Musleh (right) celebrates as QDF is ranked first in Advantage Group International’s 2026 Global Travel Retail Voice of Supplier CORE benchmark, taking the top position among 36 global travel retailers. Read our report here.

**TFWA President Sarah Branquinho is delighted to be presented with a stunning birthday cake to celebrate her special day in Cannes**

Having recently expanded its travel retail footprint with spaces at Birmingham and Cairo International airports in partnership with Avolta, fragrance house Ajmal Dubai is highlighting a new collection in Cannes. Pictured is Head of Business – Travel Retail Global Sylvia Vasile.

The Moodie Davitt Report Brands Director Hannah Tan poses with footballers, including (from left) Nigeria’s Jay Jay Okocha, France’s Presnel Kimpembe, French World Cup winner Blaise Matuidi, and England and Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard

Showing off Kering Eyewear’s new space at La Malmaison on La Croisette is Trade Marketing Manager Alessandra Masiero, pictured here with The Moodie Davitt Report’s Irene Revilla (left) and Hannah Tan (right)

12.30pm

The ASUTIL Conference 2027 was today announced for June 2027, with final dates to be confirmed. Pictured are ASUTIL board members Gustavo Fagundes and Enrique Urioste with Secretary General Carlos Loaiza and Augustin de la Guardia representing host Motta Internacional. Read our story here.

12pm

**A Champagne Lanson press conference focuses on the brand’s plans for 2027 and its high-profile sponsorship of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships**

On The Mark Beauty Chief Commercial Officer Katy Mason is in the hot seat as a Beauty Advisor from Wonderskin showcases some of the viral beauty brand’s travel retail offerings. On The Mark Beauty recently partnered with Wonderskin to introduce the name to the channel.

More behind-the-scenes shots, this time from The Moodie Davitt Report Managing Editor Ameesha Raizada’s interview with Ferrero Category Manager Kinder, Nutella and Biscuits Chiara di Canossa (left) and Category Manager Premium Chocolate, Tic Tac and Fin Biscuits Roberta Masia (right). As reported, Ferrero Travel Market is presenting the latest developments on its stand in Bay 11, Bay Village.

11.30am

Above and below: Some behind-the-scenes snapshots from our Moodie Davitt Showtime interview between Hannah Tan and Coach Director, Travel Retail & Emerging Markets Liam Dewis. Stay tuned for the full interview, coming soon on The Moodie Davitt Report.

The International Association of Airport & Duty Free Stores (IAADFS) has transitioned to a new identity as the Travel Retail Alliance of the Americas. The move was announced today by long-time IAADFS Chair Rene Riedi at a press conference in Cannes.

**TRAA Chair Rene Riedi (left) and long-time IAADFS President & CEO (now an advisor) Michael Payne reveal the new identity in Cannes**

Riedi said the change reflects the evolution of travel retail beyond duty free into a “diverse eco-system”. Having canvassed members for their views, he said it was clear that they wanted “an organisation that represents the industry but also brings people together”.

The Alliance will become more active year-round in serving its members in the Americas through advocacy, insights, education and connecting the industry. Riedi said over time TRAA would engage further and explore synergies with other industry bodies in the region to reflect their common interests.

Riedi confirmed that West Palm Beach will host the Summit of the Americas in 2027 (7-10 March) and 2028 (19-22 March). Click here for more on this story.

11am

**Light and shades: Bacardi Global Travel Retail Managing Director Charlotte Rann shares a glass with Dermot Davitt at the drinks company’s enviable outdoor space in the Bay Village**

10am

Showcasing Indri’s travel retail-exclusive (TREX) Diwali Limited Edition (below) are Piccadily Agro Industries General Manager – Global Travel Retail Manmeet Kaur and Head of International Business Madhu Kanna. Kaur recently spoke to The Moodie Davitt Report about Indri’s proudly Indian roots, its international ambitions and how the brand is positioning itself for growth in the global travel retail channel. Read the full interview here.

Bateel International Area Manager – Travel Retail Foyzul Choudhury and Director of Travel Retail Arora Rupali are presenting the brand’s signature premium dates, gourmet products and luxury gifting at the Cannes show

9am

Martin Moodie shows us how it’s done as he puts his best pedal forward on the parvis outside the Palais des Festivals in support of #KickCancerThon. Above, he is joined by TFWA Event, Marketing & Communication Director Cécile Lamotte as the pair celebrate another kilometre covered and more funds raised for The Royal Marsden Hospital.

How many kilometres can we cover before the end of the end of the week? TFWA has pledged to donate €10 for every kilometre cycled to the cancer research programme at The Royal Marsden Hospital – delegates and media peers, come and stretch your legs and do your bit for a great cause.

8am

In Conversation: An early morning start with a beautiful French Riviera backdrop at the Diageo Majestic Beach Pavilion for a very well-attended panel discussion featuring (from left) Diageo Managing Director Andrew Cowan, Mondelez WTR Vice President & Managing Director Joost Rosmuller and Heathrow Head of Category for Duty Free Luxury and High Street Nancy Stewart

**“Music, sport and culture are three key amplifiers,” says Andrew Cowan of the opportunities to convert more leisure travellers into buyers**

**The Moodie Davitt Report’s Martin Moodie and Hannah Tan join Diageo for the breakfast session**

Pedal Power: Delegates are getting behind the #KickCancerThon fundraising push as they go for a spin on the stationary bikes in front of the Festival de Palais. TFWA has pledged to donate €10 for every kilometre cycled to the cancer research programme at The Royal Marsden Hospital. Click here for the full story.

**Above and below: Kering Eyewear hosts Maui Jim’s first sunrise run in Cannes, witnessing the day begin through the brand’s famous polarised lenses**

MONDAY 28 SEPTEMBER

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9pm

How refreshing to see an airport company hosting an event in Cannes, as Vienna Airport does each year with its typical warm hospitality. Senior Vice President Centre Management Philipp Ahrens greets guests to the Annex Beach venue as a big year approaches for retail and dining at the Austrian gateway; the ambitious southern terminal expansion opens in April 2027.

**#Oribeobsessed: The Oribe team is joined by The Moodie Davitt Report Brands Director Hannah Tan (middle) and freelance journalist Naomi Chadderton (second left) at the Kao Beauty Group reception**

**SENSAI EMEA General Manager Julien Noilou and Oribe General Manager Jessica Friedman welcome guests to Kao Beauty Group’s annual cocktail reception at Canopy by Hilton**

**Former The Moodie Davitt Report colleagues, Essential Communications Managing Director Sarah Genest and Brands Director Hannah Tan, catch up at Canopy Hilton**

7pm

All smiles at this evening’s well-attended Avolta Cocktail are (from left) Avolta Global Public Affairs Director Pedro Castro, Delaviuda International Sales Director Ramon Iglesias and The Moodie Davitt Report’s Irene Revilla

**Jules Destrooper brings a taste of Belgium to the Riviera Sunset gathering with freshly pressed stroopwafels**

**Delegates sample Flor de Caña 25 Year straight from the barrel**

**Neuhaus brings a taste of Belgian chocolate craftsmanship with a selection of pralines and gifting favourites**

Granado Director of Marketing & Sales Sissi Freeman takes The Moodie Davitt Report through the Brazilian perfumery’s heritage, dating back to its founding in Rio de Janeiro in 1870, and its evolving portfolio. The brand is set to make its travel retail debut in Madrid this November.

6pm

“Avolta IQ is our own data platform, our own intelligence platform, our commercial engine. It involves the collection of all possible data, but equally specific software to develop that data into specific actions. So it is not about knowledge; it is about converting that knowledge into value.”

That’s how Avolta CEO Xavier Rossinyol introduced Avolta IQ, the company’s new data platform, in Cannes on Monday night.

He said that access to traveller data was a key differentiator for the company given its vast global network.

“Last year, we had 700 million customers, and we had exposure to 2.5 billion people. That is people who actually went through the airports and other channels where we have a presence. Even if they don’t all shop, they see our businesses there. It is exposure. We have invested a lot of effort in Club Avolta. We have now 20 million active members, which for a loyalty programme in the travel space is massive.

“But we don’t believe just having the data is what makes the difference. What makes the difference is connecting the data.”

More to follow on this story.

Avolta CEO Xavier Rossinyol took to the stage on Monday evening to launch Avolta IQ. The innovative platform is Avolta’s proprietary commercial intelligence engine, connecting travel signals and turning them into meaningful commercial actions. Powered by in-house AI and machine learning, it collects Avolta data inputs, links and interprets them, triggers commercial actions and continuously improves through shared value and response data.

5pm

Our Brands Director Hannah Tan is pictured with Bath & Body Works Chief International Officer Tony Garrison after filming an edition of Moodie Davitt Showtime which focuses on the brand’s revamp and ‘Find Your Perfect Scent’ marketing campaign

My Jewellery Head of Business Development Thom Timmer speaks to The Moodie Davitt Report Managing Editor Ameesha Raizada about what the brand is learning from travel retail and how those insights are shaping its next phase of growth. Stay tuned for the full interview.

Champagne Lanson President François Van Aal talks about how the historic maison is staying relevant to today’s Champagne consumer while building on its ambitions in travel retail. Watch this space for more.

Business Development Director Evarist Peter Rigo showcases the latest interpretation of ARMAF’s globally recognised Club De Nuit franchise: Intense Overdose. About the company’s vast portfolio, Rigo says: “Variety is one of ARMAF’s strengths, allowing us to cater to a wide range of preferences around the world. And this is just the beginning – we have much more in the pipeline.”

**‘The Scent of One World’ brings together SHK I, II, III and IV, co-created by ARMAF in collaboration with Saoud AlKaabi (pictured)**

Polish vodka brand U’Luvka is stepping up its travel retail ambitions following its acquisition in August by independent Indian drinks group Aspri Spirits. Head of International Business Justin Weston says: “I’m a huge believer in the power of duty free as a discovery window. With U’Luvka, we want to focus first on global expansion in travel retail, with the next step being special editions and channel exclusives.”

(From left) Edrington Regional Managing Director, Western Europe & Global Travel Retail Kasper Andersen; The Macallan Senior Whisky Maker Diane Stuart; Edrington Marketing Director Western Europe & Global Travel Retail Alessandro Felicani; and The Macallan Brand Education Manager Global Travel Retail Stefan Mases present Carta Nautica. The new travel retail-exclusive (TREX) 20 Year Old expression draws inspiration from The Macallan cask’s nautical voyage from America to Scotland.

**Diane Stuart and Stefan Mases enjoy a dram of the new TREX The Macallan Carta Nautica whisky**

**TR Partners Founder & Managing Director Vincent McDermott charts the rise of Korean skincare brand ANUA, which he says has grown from a new entrant in 2019 to US$1 billion in sales in 2026**

Pictured above at Pernod Ricard’s Cocktail Hour at The Majestic Hotel are (from left) Duty Free Holdings Senior Buyer – Spirits and Tobacco Aida Young, SYZYGY Brands Founder & Managing Director Catherine Restrepo Gallo and The Moodie Davitt Report’s Irene Revilla. Below, Irene is pictured with Pernod Ricard Senior PR & Comms Manager Charlotte Turner.

Edrington Regional Managing Director – Global Travel Retail Kasper Andersen talks about The Macallan’s Mastery Beyond Reason global campaign, an ethos the brand has had since its beginnings, telling the audience this initiative will inform all brand communications moving forward

The Macallan Senior Whisky Maker Diane Stuart takes the media through a tasting of the brand’s most recent launches. Some of the distillery’s rare expressions are set to appear at Changi Airport Group’s annual World of Wines & Spirits (WOWS) showcase, which you can read more about in our story here.

3pm

**Painting the town red in Cannes are Loacker Head of Travel Retail and Duty Free Juan Miguel Cabrera and Communication Manager Martina Oberkofler. Discover the brand’s Cannes showcase here.**

**Duty Free Global Beauty CEO Jonathan Holland (left) and Sales Manager Ben Geoghegan are showcasing the company’s K-beauty line-up at the Cannes** **event. Read more about the expanded portfolio in our story here.**

DPT Antwerp Co-Founder, Designer and Creative Director Stephanie Wilms-Verté and CEO Edward Verté pose at the company’s Cannes stand. Edward recently chatted with The Moodie Davitt Report about the demi-fine jewellery brand’s growing presence across the travel retail channel. Read the full interview here.

Kellanova snacking brand Pringles is showcasing its Nachos Sharing Crisps range, marking its move into the corn-based chips category with Original, Cheese and Paprika flavours. Kellanova Assistant Brand Manager Pringles – Benelux and Global Travel Retail Lou Gagneux (left) says that two novelty gift boxes, Innovative Air Pringles and Suitcase packs, are planned for launch next year.

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1pm

Crafting Life Ties: The Moodie Davitt Report Chairman Martin Moodie (middle) was honoured to receive a special presentation from L’Occitane en Provence CEO Adrien Geiger and L’OCCITANE Group Managing Director Global Travel Retail Evelyne Ly-Wainer in Cannes in honour of Moodie’s late daughter Sinead (formerly Chief Operating Officer at The Moodie Davitt Report). Sinead created the hugely successful travel retail cancer research campaign #KickCancerThon, which since her passing on 1 February, has raised hundreds of thousands of Dollars. Sinead was an aficionado of L’OCCITANE Creme Mains Delice de Rose. The duo are also pictured below with The Moodie Davitt Report Brands Director Hannah Tan.

12pm

**Tallink Grupp Member of the Management Board Piret Murk-Dubout (left) and Tallink Duty Free Managing Director Aimar Parna swap stories over a convivial lunch with Dermot Davitt as the show begins**

**The Estée Lauder Companies team welcomes delegates to the company’s celebratory event at Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes**

**Estée Lauder Companies President and CEO Stéphane de La Faverie addresses guests at the Majestic event**

**Suited and booted: The Moodie Davitt Report Chairman Martin Moodie (left) is all smiles as he catches up with Qatar Airways Chief Retail and Hospitality Officer Thabet Musleh**

**The Moodie Davitt Report’s Irene Revilla (centre) and Hannah Tan (right) enjoy a chat with Estée Lauder Companies Travel Retail Asia Pacific Vice President/General Manager Selina Thng**

Striking a pose for The Moodie Davitt Report photographer are, from left, King Power Duty Free Chief Commercial Officer Antares Cheng; The Estée Lauder Companies Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Asia Pacific and Travel Retail Worldwide Fiona Morgan; and Martin Moodie

**From left: The Duty Free Philippines’ Chim and Celina Esteban pose for a photo with The Moodie Davitt Report’s Irene Revilla and Hannah Tan**

**The Villiger team are out in force at this year’s TFWA Exhibition, with the company’s new Senior Vice President Export & GM France Giovanni Samperi on the right**

11am

**TFWA World Exhibition opens with a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony**

“Travel, at its best, is an opportunity for us to become the people we hope we are, to break free of the old and do something new and exciting,” says author and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Charles Duhigg, leading a session on how effective communication can transform duty-free shopping. “When I encounter someone in retail who connects with me, who matches my energy, then it’s not just that I want to buy something from them. It’s that I trust them – I come to see this place and this person and this retail brand as an ally to help me move through the world and be the person that I want to be.”

10.30am

**“Airports are under pressure but 50% of cost recovery comes from non-aeronautic revenues. Non-aeronautical revenues are still -15% versus pre-COVID numbers.” – Gilles Roucolle**

Oliver Wyman Managing Partner and Head of Industries Gilles Roucolle, author of Transformations in Mobility, explored how airports and transport hubs are evolving in response to technological innovation, sustainability and evolving passenger expectations.

He said: “Airports are the global connectors of the new age. They are the true facilitator of the global economy and are often the economic power for cities.

“Airports sit at the intersection of mobility, infrastructure, technology, commerce and human experience. Twenty-five million passengers go through an airport every day. The first duty-free shop opened in Shannon, Ireland in 1947. Today, duty free has become the standard feature in an airport.”

**Roucolle highlights intramodal connectivity, technological innovation and ecommerce as the biggest trends that will shape airport mobility**

Roucoulle explored how the airports of the future will transform to adapt to a more connected, increasingly experience-driven world.

He commented, “The next generation of travel will not be defined by faster aircrafts of larger airports, it’s about creating mobility ecosystems that are seamless and can connect people, places, brands and commerce.”

9.45am

In conversation with journalist and presenter Stephen Sackur (right), economist and author David McWilliams distinguishes between long-term economic “shifts” and shorter-term “shocks”, arguing that AI will fundamentally reshape white-collar work while political pressures, trade tensions and demographic change will continue to test developed economies. Yet he remains optimistic: “The beautiful thing about humanity is we do recalibrate, and we always adapt.”

McWilliams explores the role of creativity and risk-taking in driving economic growth, arguing that entrepreneurs, like artists, are compelled to create something new. He says, “The optimism of their will has to always supersede the pessimism of their intellect.”

9am

**A new look for TFWA befitting a new chapter for travel retail. TFWA President Sarah Branquinho reveals the new branding for the association.**

TFWA President Sarah Branquinho urges the industry to join the #KickCancerthon initiative by pedalling on the stationary bikes in front of the Festival de Palais. The initiative aims to collectively generate as many kilometres as possible. TFWA has pledged to donate €10 for every kilometre cycled to the cancer research programme at The Royal Marsden Hospital. Click here for the full story.

The three focus areas Branquinho highlights for TFWA over the coming year were market trends, proving value through collaboration and finding the way forward to ensure the next chapter of travel retail will be more successful than the last

TFWA President Sarah Branquinho welcomed delegates to the Monday morning conference with an overview of the health of the industry. She also previewed what the association is doing to navigate the challenges faced by the channel.

She said, “In the last 25 years, I have seen travel retail sales nearly quadruple to US$76 billion, and yet I believe the opportunity ahead of us is greater still.

“Today, only 1.4 billion of the world’s 8.3 billion people hold a passport. While international travel would not be accessible or relevant to everyone, that figure still gives a sense of the enormous potential for our industry.

“However, growth doesn’t mean more traffic and traffic doesn’t mean more value,” she added. “The question we should ask ourselves is: ‘How do we turn the extraordinary growth of travel into sustainable growth for travel retail?’”

TFWA President Sarah Branquinho urges the industry to have better transparency on retailer sell-out data. She highlights the success of the ETRC Index and announced the creation of an industry-wide database for sell-out data supported by the TFWA.

SATURDAY 26/SUNDAY 27 SEPTEMBER

9pm

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The Moodie Davitt Report team is out in force at TFWA World Exhibition. Pictured from left at the Opening Cocktail tonight are Managing Editor Ameesha Raizada; Senior International Account Manager Aran Turner; Strategic Partnerships Lead Christelle Hill; President & CEO Dermot Davitt; Publisher & Managing Director Irene Revilla; Brands Director Hannah Tan and Moodie Davitt STUDIO Filmmaker Alexander Roux (Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie is also at the show).

**A dazzling start: Fireworks light up the Cannes sky as the TFWA World Exhibition opening cocktail draws to a close on Carlton Beach**

Brisbane Airport Head of Commercial Property Development Toby Innes, Sydney Airport Head of Retail, Leasing and Business Development Aaron Gupta, The Moodie Davitt Report President Dermot Davitt and Travel Markets Insider Author Michael Pasternak compare air miles as they arrive in Cannes

**TFWA Chief China Representative Hannah Gao and JCR Consulting Director John Rimmer at the TFWA opening cocktail**

A warm welcome to Cannes: The Moodie Davitt Report Brands Director Hannah Tan with KOSÉ Travel Retail President and CEO Hiroto Kitaki (left) and Gulf Pacific Founder Gary Leong at the TFWA World Exhibition opening cocktail

The DPT Antwerp team at the opening cocktail. Co-Founder and CEO Edward Verté (right) recently spoke to The Moodie Davitt Report about the demi-fine jewellery brand’s growing presence across airports, cruise and inflight, and its accessible natural diamond proposition. Click here for the interview.

**CVH Spirits International Sales and Global Travel Retail Director Lynsey Eades and Prescott Advisory Founder James Prescott are all smiles at the TFWA World Exhibition opening cocktail**

Yilin Consulting Founder Yilin Wang and Narraid AI Founder & CEO Melvin Broekaart enjoy the opening cocktail. Wang recently shared her fascinating insights on China’s Super Golden Week on the recent Yilin Watch column on The Moodie Davitt Report.

**The Moodie Davitt Report Managing Editor Ameesha Raizada and Brands Director Hannah Tan grab a rare photo together at the photobooth**

**Building connections: The LEGO Group Senior Business Development Manager Travel Retail Sebastian Alt and Duty Free Global COO Nathalie Roelands celebrate the start of TFWA World Exhibition**

The Swarovski team are sparkling at the opening cocktail at Carlton Beach. The Austrian crystal house has pledged to donate 10% of proceeds from its travel retail-exclusive (TREX) Symbolica collection to charitable causes under the umbrella of The Moodie Davitt Report’s global #KickCancerThon fundraising initiative. Click here for the full story.

**WEPURPLE’s James Brown (left) and Paula Wilson (middle) represent the integrated design agency at the TFWA World Exhibition opening cocktail on Carlton Beach**

**Setting the tempo: A DJ keeps the energy high as the travel retail industry gathers for an evening by the sea**

B&S hosted an ever-popular party on Sunday night with Global Sales Director Duty Free & Travel Retail Luke Maga (right) welcoming The Moodie Davitt Report President Dermot Davitt (left) and Duty Free Georgia Managing Director Faruk Yilmaz

**Dermot Davitt with Avolta Global Public Affairs Director Pedro Castro (centre) and ASUTIL Secretary-General Carlos Loaiza-Keel**

**Leading cruise retailer Harding+ hosted a first Cannes cocktail on Sunday night; pictured is Brand Partnerships Manager Carolyn Mariani with Dermot Davitt**

A wonderful ETRC cocktail gathered the industry together on Sunday evening; from left is the ETRC board and management, Lylian Vignau (Lagardère Travel Retail), Pedro Castro (Avolta), Julie Lassaigne (ETRC), Nina Semprecht (Gebr. Heinemann), Nigel Keal (ETRC), Sarah Branquinho (Duty Free World Council & TFWA), Paul Neeson (ARI), Piret Mürk-Dubout (Tallink Grupp), Nicole Regecová (ETRC) and Ricardo Oliveira

**At a memorable ETRC Cocktail are (from left) Paul Neeson (ARI), Dermot Davitt (The Moodie Davitt Report), Piret Mürk-Dubout (Tallink Grupp) and Lylian Vignau (Lagardère Travel Retail)**

The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie shows he is determined, as always, to stay on top of things at TFWA World Exhibition. The veteran publisher will hand over the CEO reins at the company to his long-time colleague and business partner Dermot Davitt on 1 October, the concluding day of the show.

Saeed Hamou, Head of Global Business at Lamo’s, a premium sweets and pastries brand based in Sharjah, UAE, popped into Cannes briefly today to drop off some samples to a brand representative. While there he caught up briefly with The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie, who was in distinctly non-business attire. Lamo’s is launching an exquisitely packaged super-premium chocolate range into travel retail. Watch this space for details and an interview with Hamou, coming soon.

Sky Connect Founder & Commercial Director Catherine Bonelli hosted an unforgettable dinner at the magnificent La Villa Archange – Bastide Bruno Oger on Saturday night for a small group of industry friends.

La Villa Archange – Bastide Bruno Oger is a two Michelin Star restaurant renowned for its classic yet magnificently innovative French cuisine and seafood dishes served in the sumptuous midst of an 18th-century Provençal villa.

(From left) The SEVA Group Founder & Chairman Severino Pušić, Yulim Lee (wife of The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie), Havadrink Enterprises Co-Founder Joanne Corrigan, Sky Connect Founder & Commercial Director Catherine Bonelli, Chef Bruno Oger, Havadrink Enterporises Co-Founder Steve Corrigan and Martin Moodie pictured after an unforgettable evening

As the industry builds towards another edition of its biggest annual show, TFWA has released a special preview video via LinkedIn as the set-up continues. Click below for access.

The Cannes show is as ever a magnificent meeting place for friends old and new. On Saturday the annual Pinkie Pairs golf tournament took place at the wonderful Old Course in Mandelieu, offering a superb social kick-off to the event.

Importantly, there was also a strong charity angle, with the 28 players contributing €2,320 across the day that will be donated to The Royal Marsden, a specialist cancer treatment hospital and one of the leading cancer research bodies in the world. This was later supplemented by a wonderfully generous €10,000 donation from The SEVA Group Founder Severino Pušić.

**Allez les Pinkies! A swinging start to the show week as the Pinkie Pairs tournament begins.**

King Power Group (Hong Kong) CEO and Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association President Sunil Tuli is recognised by Pinkie colleagues (he is pictured front with event co-organiser Kevin Walsh) for his recent fundraising efforts conducted as part of #KickCancerThon. In February he completed the Mardi Himal Trek in Nepal’s Annapurna region, a five-day expedition reaching an altitude of 4,500 metres. He raised around HK$240,000 (US$30,600), with all proceeds directly supporting cancer research.

**Anyone for tee? A fine four-ball featuring (from left) Jonathan Holland (Duty Free Global Beauty), Michael Payne (IAADFS), Peter Marshall (TRUnblocked) and Martin Moodie (The Moodie Davitt Report).**

**A mixed day on the course but a memorable day out with friends: (From left) Rodger Craig (ii-wines), Luke Maga (B&S), Dermot Davitt (The Moodie Davitt Report) and Lloyd Maxwell (GMAX Travel Retail)**

Nadine Heubel (who later won a superb prize to The Open 2027 courtesy of Loch Lomond Whisky) with Barry Geoghegan, Fiona Webster and Lucas Roberts. Below, Martin Mullen, Jeannie Archer, Catherine Bonelli and Denz van der List.

In a poignant moment, Duty Free Global Founder Barry Geoghegan (centre) was presented with the inaugural Colm McLoughlin green jacket for his long track record of bringing people in the industry together. Colm McLoughlin, former Dubai Duty Free Executive Vice Chairman & CEO, and one of the great statesmen of duty free, sadly passed away in October 2024. Pictured are friends and colleagues toasting Barry for the well-deserved honour.

The Marsden treated the late Sinead Moodie (and previously her father Martin Moodie) who was the creator of #KickCancerThon, the travel retail visibility and fundraising campaign for cancer research that has had such an impact through this year.

As reported, Tax Free World Association (TFWA) is lending fantastic support to #KickCancerThon during TFWA World Exhibition this week. Exhibitors, visitors and other industry partners are invited to cycle on stationary bikes installed on the parvis outside the Palais des Festivals.

The initiative aims to collectively generate as many kilometres as possible. TFWA has generously pledged to donate €10 to the The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity for every kilometre cycled.

Above we feature some pictorial highlights from a magnificent golfing day out at the Old Course.

*Click here for Martin Moodie’s reflections on the day and on returning to Cannes in The Moodie Blog.

THURSDAY 1 OCTOBER

Update: TFWA cycles for #KickCancerThon

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SATURDAY 26/SUNDAY 27 SEPTEMBER

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