FRANCE. Women in Travel Retail+ (WiTR+) welcomed a record attendance of over 350 members and guests at its annual networking evening during the TFWA World Exhibition in Cannes.
Hosted by Brown-Forman, the event once again brought together influential women and allies from across the global travel retail community for an evening that combined connection, celebration and philanthropy.
The occasion reflected WiTR+’s growing role as a powerful platform for empowerment and collaboration in travel retail.
Among the highlights was the appearance of Ylva Binder, whose conversation with WiTR+ Chair Sarah Branquinho in 2006 inspired the creation of the organisation.
Binder, who then worked at Bacardi and is now a brand owner and distiller in her own right (she is the creator of Rhuby rhubarb liqueur and PiGin gin), joined Brown-Forman Master Blender Dr Rachel Barrie for an engaging session that explored their career journeys and included a Glendronach tasting masterclass.
WiTR+’s membership now approaches 900 globally – a milestone that underlines the group’s continued commitment to supporting and connecting women across all areas of travel retail.
The evening also raised significant funds for WiTR+’s 2025 charity partner, Toutes à l’École, which supports the education of disadvantaged girls in Cambodia.
A raffle, bolstered by generous contributions from Victoria’s Secret and Brown-Forman among others, ensured the fundraising target was surpassed. The proceeds will fund the refurbishment of sleep and study facilities for female students in Cambodia.
WiTR+ expressed its gratitude to Brown-Forman for hosting the event and to all members, partners and donors for their support in driving the organisation’s mission forward.
WiTR+ Chair Sarah Branquinho said: “This was our flagship event, and we were delighted that it was hosted at the Brown-Forman stand in the Beach Village. We reached absolute capacity, which was wonderful to see. Our membership is now heading towards 900, thanks in part to the corporate partnership scheme that has really helped boost our numbers – a fantastic development for WiTR+.”
As reported, Qatar Duty Free has joined Women in Travel Retail Plus (WiTR+) as its 25th corporate partner, celebrating the milestone alongside the retailer’s 25th anniversary. The company’s latest initiative reinforces its commitment to supporting gender diversity, empowerment and leadership in travel retail.
For more information on membership or to get involved in future WiTR+ initiatives, visit www.womenintr.com ✈
