USA. The next wave of cruise retail opportunities, the evolution of onboard store formats and how creative partnerships can drive conversion were among the topics discussed on day two of the retail sessions at Seatrade Cruise Global on Wednesday.
As reported, Seatrade Cruise Global – the world’s leading gathering of cruiselines worldwide – runs from 13-16 April in Miami.
A series of sessions devoted to onboard retailing, organised by The Moodie Davitt Report, took place across 14 and 15 April, with participation from leading cruiselines, concessionaires and brand owners. Click here for images from day one.
Kicking off today’s sessions, MSC Cruises SVP Onboard Revenue Georg Schmickler and Azamara Cruises Head of Onboard Revenue Claudio Sammartano talked about the vision, planning and execution pipeline for their portfolios, and how these are feeding into shopping opportunity for guests through enhanced space, offers and experiences.
Assessing how great partnerships can come together in cruise retail to lift the guest experience and drive commercial gains was the subject of a trio of case studies in the session that followed.
Harding+ Retail Director Jeff Dunaway and Diageo Global Account Manager Cruise Amy Del Gatto addressed the premium spirits opportunity onboard, talking about what they have achieved together through various high-profile campaigns, plus the mechanics and the measures of success.
Starboard Group Director of Merchandising Karla Nedeski and Essence Corp Area Sales Director Yennifer Abreu assessed the all-important beauty opportunity with an emphasis on niche fragrances and the impact of a recent Parfums de Marly brand campaign.
Avolta Commercial Director Caribbean & Cruises Priscila Gonzalez and LePrix Executive Vice President Business Development Laura Swan presented how they are jointly seizing the growing pre-loved fashion opportunity onboard Norwegian Cruise Line ships.
The event closed with guest speaker, leadership mentor and AI advisor Tarja Stephens delivering an illuminating view of AI, the world of work, leadership and blending new technology with people skills in the cruise retail.
Platinum Partners for the 2026 retail sessions were Starboard Group, Harding+, Effy Jewelry and Avolta. Other partners included Any Di Munich and Keywest Sterling Silver Company.
We will bring you a full event review including additional images soon. 🛳️
