FRANCE. Tax Free World Association (TFWA) has unveiled a robust conference agenda for its 2026 World Exhibition & Conference, which takes place in Cannes from 27 September to 1 October.
The conference is scheduled for 28 September, running from 9.00am to 11.45am in the Grand Auditorium at the Palais des Festivals.
Additionally, a workshop programme will bring together industry experts to examine trends, behaviours and innovations across the sector, including market performance, travel demand, fashion, consumer expectations and digital engagement.
Under the theme ‘Shaping the World of Travel Retail’, the TFWA World Conference will explore current themes redefining the industry – from geopolitics and mobility to human behaviour and consumer engagement.
Returning as moderator, journalist and presenter Stephen Sackur will guide the programme.
The TFWA World Conference will open with a state-of-the-industry address by TFWA President Sarah Branquinho, including reflections on the industry’s current position, emerging opportunities, evolving traveller expectations and shifts in global commerce.
The first session will welcome Irish economist and author David McWilliams for an exploration of the geopolitical and economic realities affecting international business.
As globalisation enters a new and more fragmented phase, the session will examine the impact of shifting trade dynamics and political instability on industries built around openness and mobility.
The programme will then turn to the future of travel with Gilles Roucolle, Managing Director and Head of Industries at Oliver Wyman and author of Transformations in Mobility.
His session will explore how airports and other transport hubs are evolving in response to technological innovation, sustainability and changing traveller expectations.
As mobility becomes smarter, more connected and experience-driven, the discussion will consider how commercial spaces may transform, and what this means for the relationship between travellers, brands and destinations.
The TFWA World Conference will conclude with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author Charles Duhigg, who will explore the factors shaping human performance and behaviour, and how these shifts are influencing the consumer of the future.
At a time when attention, habits and decision-making are increasingly influenced by technology and constant connectivity, the session will examine the implications for consumer engagement, said TFWA.
Branquinho commented: “The travel retail industry has always demonstrated resilience and an extraordinary ability to adapt and evolve.
“As we look towards the future, it is more important than ever to understand the broader forces influencing our business and the changing needs of travellers.
“The 2026 World Exhibition & Conference has been designed to provide exactly that perspective, bringing together world-class thinkers to share knowledge and provide valuable insight for the decisions ahead.”
Further information about the TFWA World Exhibition & Conference, including pre-registration details, is available here. ✈
