SWITZERLAND. Global distribution company Weitnauer Group is marking its 160th anniversary with a phase of ambitious expansion, entering 30 new markets across Europe, the CIS, Middle East, USA, South America and Africa.
This milestone reflects what the company describes as its enduring legacy and strong track record in cross-category omnichannel distribution in both travel retail and domestic markets.
The expansion is designed to tap into growth opportunities in the luxury goods market, with a focus on developing economies.
Weitnauer Group President Eric Laurent said: “Since day one in 1865, our family business has been driven by our passion as entrepreneurial pioneers to explore and develop new, uncharted markets where we identify cross-category potential.
“Our specialist local teams ensure direct expertise in the operational and geopolitical dynamics of niche economies enabling our clients to localise their strategies and optimise regional demand. As we celebrate 2025, we proudly reflect on 160 years of heritage and the enduring trust placed in us by our brand partners – a trust we view as our most valuable asset.
“Our ongoing adventure into rapidly expanding markets continues to inspire us, as we seek out and realise new opportunities for our clients, anchored by our unwavering commitment to complete transparency and open information sharing.
“Our comprehensive distribution+ network empowers us to craft bespoke, strategic solutions tailored to the unique needs of each partner.
“This encompasses a full suite of resources from devising go-to-market strategies and optimising outlet selection, to managing distribution and warehousing, brokering licensing agreements, forging partnerships, and overseeing sales and marketing initiatives.
“For our partners, this approach offers a more efficient and risk-averse alternative to establishing their own operations in new territories.”
From its origins in 1865 as a tobacco retailer in Basel, Switzerland, the company expanded into wholesale travel retail distribution in 1948 and went on to become one of the world’s top five retail operators, trading as Dufry.
The company’s strategic shift to a dedicated B2B model began in 2004 with the sale of its Dufry retail operations, reinforcing its role as a global distribution network while supporting brand partners in new markets.
Among the anniversary highlights is Weitnauer Group’s ‘Giving Back to our Communities’ initiative, which enables local teams across markets to choose and support organisations that provide vital resources and financial aid to socially vulnerable groups.
Examples of key projects include the Brazil team’s donation of winter kits to patients at Nefroclínica in Foz do Iguaçu, while in Ivory Coast, the local team supported Maison Akwaba by Soleterre with essential goods for children with cancer and their families receiving treatment at Treichville CHU. ✈
