Rémy Martin reveals "more than a gift"

Rémy Martin is celebrating the holiday season with a limited-edition gift collection celebrating the wine-growing areas at the heart of its aromatic signature: Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne, the two areas from which Cognacs Fine Champagne are produced.

Each collectible gift box is an artistic tribute to these terroirs. In travel retail, the festive editions of Rémy Martin XO and Rémy Martin VSOP were introduced in selected locations in September, ahead of the main roll-out in October.

The Remy Martin XO limited-edition holiday coffret

Dubbed “more than a gift”, the Rémy Martin limited-edition holiday collection 2025 is an invitation to journey back to the birthplace of the house’s award-winning Cognacs. It offers “a pictorial voyage into the rolling vineyards of Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne where the natural surroundings – from the trees and flowers to the birds and the insects – subtly influence the unique aromatic character of the region”, the company said.

The Rémy Martin XO coffret slides open to reveal the XO decanter decorated in gold, with vibrant illustrations of flowers, fruits and leaves interwoven with insects and birds. Rémy Martin XO is the signature of Cellar Master Baptiste Loiseau who draws from hundreds of eaux-de-vie from Grande and Petite Champagne to craft a complex Cognac.

An ornate red gift box and limited-edition label for Rémy Martin VSOP completes this holiday collection in the travel retail channel. The box is decorated with illustrations in gold, silver and burgundy shades, featuring depictions of aromatic fruits and spices, summer apricots, autumn pears, intense liquorice and warm vanilla, all accompanied by vine leaves, hazelnut leaves and birds.

The travel retail roll-out is being supported by high-profile, sensorial activations. Key locations include the West Kowloon High Speed Rail Link station and airports such as Singapore Changi, Sydney, Dubai, Frankfurt and Paris Charles de Gaulle.

In Hong Kong, an omnichannel experience in partnership with Avolta and Ctrip leverages pre-trip awareness and loyalty programme membership to drive footfall to the pop-up. 

To elevate the shopping experience, travellers are invited to take a virtual flight to Cognac via VR technology, transporting them to the vineyards and up into the star-filled skies. The journey is punctuated by stops in the clouds to discover the secrets of Rémy Martin, guided by the cellar masters, winegrowers and craftspeople. 

The Remy Martin Heart of Cognac activation at Hong Kong's High Speed Rail Link station

Travellers are invited to discover the Cognac collection through nosing via scent sticks. The discovery journey continues with the signature XO Opulence Reveal touchpoint, a luxury sensory food and Cognac pairing showcase.

“This holiday season, we’re excited to once again collaborate with our valued global travel retail partners to present the new limited-edition gift collection from Rémy Martin,” noted Fida Bou Chabke, CEO Global Travel Retail at Rémy Cointreau. “This festive release embodies our deep-rooted heritage and dedication to excellence, offering travellers a meaningful way to celebrate the season and creating lasting memories with loved ones."

MCM: A new chapter of luxury opens at KaDeWe

German luxury brand MCM has opened one of its largest retail spaces to date, at KaDeWe Berlin.

Spanning over 200sq m, the newly reimagined MCM space inside the prestigious German department store draws inspiration from Bauhaus architecture, blending sleek geometry, clean lines and modern form. It carries the latest apparel, leather goods and accessories.

Please see the pictures below:

MCM at KaDeWe Berlin - via Instagram

Top cyclists to appear at Monaco event

Elite cyclists Mark Cavendish and Pauline Ferrand-Prévot are set to appear at Beking, Monaco’s annual cycling event, on 23 November 2025.

The sport’s biggest names will cycle alongside amateur cyclists and families for a day of racing and activities. 

Beking 2024 in Monaco

For its fifth year, world champion Tadej Pogačar will headline the men’s professional criterium field. He will be joined by former Milano-Sanremo winner Matej Mohorič and Grand Tour stage winner Michael Matthews. 

The women’s race will feature multi-discipline world champion Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, who recently won the Tour de France Femmes. She will compete with Tour de France Femmes 2024 winner Kasia Niewiadoma, Lorena Wiebes and Chiara Consonni, a medal winner at the Track World Championships.

Amateurs to ride with legends

Meanwhile, amateur riders will compete alongside cycling legends in the Pro/Am charity race. Captains will include Tour de France stage wins record-holder Mark Cavendish, 2010 world champion Thor Hushovd and Paris-Roubaix race winner Sonny Colbrelli. Formula 1 driver Antonio Giovinazzi and former French footballer Jean-Pierre Papin will also lead teams.

Children remain at the heart of the event. Young cyclists will be able to ride the same circuit as the professionals and a Kids Area will host activities centred on road safety and sustainable transport.

Proceeds will support the Beking Foundation, which was set up by professional cyclists and focuses on educational and sporting projects for young people.

“Reaching the fifth edition feels truly inspiring,” said Matteo Trentin, the event’s host and the driving force behind Beking. “We race all over the world for a living, but Beking is different. Here, we ride with a purpose: the ambition to build something lasting for the next generation and for the planet."

Suntory links with Heinemann on landmark shop

Japanese liquor group Suntory Global Spirits has partnered with travel retail operator Gebr Heinemann to create the first-ever permanent House of Suntory shop-in-shop in Oceania.

Situated at Heinemann Oceania’s main store in Sydney Airport Departures, the 9sq m space showcases luxury Japanese whisky and premium white spirits.

Using “subtle yet impactful” messaging, the shop-in-shop aims to create memorable interactions in the strategically important travel retail setting.

The House of Suntory shop-in-shop in Heinemann Oceania's Sydney Airport store

Celebrating craftsmanship through design

Rooted in Shizen, the Japanese design principle of natural flow and organic harmony, the Sydney shop-in-shop aims to deliver a clean, modern aesthetic and facilitate seamless transitions. This simplicity elevates the overall elegance of the environment, inviting consumers on their journey to explore Japanese artistry and craftsmanship.

The space incorporates the minimalist principle of Ma – emphasising negative space to create balance and mindfulness – while Okuyuki adds depth and visual layering. A traditional Ikebana-style floral arrangement anchors the Japanese aesthetic, alongside a digital screen that displays evocative imagery of Japan.

The merchandising displays incorporate contemporary Machiya-inspired wood lattices – a tribute to the facade of the company’s first shop in Japan.

To drive footfall, high-value expressions are positioned at the entrance, while Suntory’s prestige whisky collections – Yamazaki, Hibiki and Hakushu – are featured on the left. This space showcases Suntory’s limited-edition releases, including Yamazaki 18 Years Mizunara and Hibiki’s exclusive artist collaboration with the world-renowned Japanese artist Hiroshi Senju.

Evocative imagery of Japan inside The House of Suntory shop-in-shop

Visionary spirit

The right-hand side of the space spotlights craft spirits, including Toki Whisky, Roku Gin and Haku Vodka. At the rear, a dedicated sampling area and an Art of Gifting counter allow consumers to personalise a gift card with every bottle purchase.

“The unveiling of this exceptional new shop-in-shop exemplifies the visionary spirit of our partnership with Heinemann Oceania,” said Suntory Global Spirits Managing Director Travel Retail Ashish Gandham. “Meticulously crafted for Sydney International Airport, this stunning space offers an immersive journey into the artistry of luxury Japanese spirits, inspiring travellers while driving transformative growth for our category.”

Heinemann Asia Pacific Regional Purchasing Director Ranjith Menon noted: “The opening of The House of Suntory shop-in-shop at Heinemann Tax and Duty Free at Sydney International Airport reflects our shared commitment to premium, experiential retail environments. This initiative is a significant step forward in our joint ambition to drive visibility and growth within the premium spirits category in one of the most dynamic airports in the region."

The Dalmore Anthology tells a bold brand story

Upscale Scotch whisky brand The Dalmore has introduced The Dalmore Anthology – a bold travel retail exclusive collection of rare single malts.

Available in selected airport locations, this trio of aged expressions – 13yo, 16yo and 19yo – is each finessed in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. The multi-cask process maximises maturation time.

The Dalmore Anthology 13yo, 16yo and 19yo

The Dalmore Anthology made its Middle East debut in October 2025 at Dubai Airport, in partnership with Dubai Duty Free.

Drawing inspiration from the literary world, the name Anthology – a collection of the finest artistic works – defines the philosophy behind this launch. Each expression is for those who seek “rare and meaningful finds”, brand owner Whyte & Mackay said.

The Dalmore Anthology features 13yo Pedro Ximénez Cask Finish (£62/$80/43%abv); 16yo Pedro Ximénez Cask Finish (£128/$165/46%abv); and 19yo Pedro Ximénez Cask Finish (£271/$350/47%abv).

The Dalmore Anthology pop-up at Dubai Duty Free

Literature-inspired storytelling

Launching at a flagship 38sq m activation with Dubai Duty Free, the visual storytelling of The Dalmore Anthology is brought to life through a striking, literature-inspired retail concept. Bespoke display units feature elegant bookshelves. Gondolas are styled as oversized book sleeves, while illuminated glorifiers, designed to resemble stacked books, spotlight each whisky. 

In addition, The Anthology Olfactory Studio sensorial experience invites travellers to nose all three whiskies using aroma strips. Even the olfactory kit is presented in a hand-crafted hardback ”book”, reinforcing the literary theme.

Striking in-store presence

Whyte & Mackay Marketing Director Global Travel Retail Janice McIntosh said: “Drawn from the pages of our rich whisky-making heritage, The Dalmore Anthology is a celebration of legacy and possibility that showcases our ambition to innovate within the luxury whisky space. We are proud and excited to offer these exceptional new releases to our discerning travel retail clientele.”

Dubai Duty Free Senior Vice President – Purchasing Sharon Beecham added: “This exceptional new travel exclusive collection brings together age and unique cask finish, offering strong shopper appeal – exactly the kind of innovation our customers are seeking. With its striking in-store presence and curated luxury positioning, we are confident The Dalmore Anthology will drive excitement and commercial momentum within the whisky category.”

The Dalmore is the fastest-growing top 10 global malt brand in the ultra-premium and prestige sectors, according to IWSR 2024 (2019-2024 sales by value).

MCM: The art of motion in fashion

For Milan Fashion Week 2025, MCM placed motion at its core. Inspired by Taekwondo’s codes of respect and balance, the German luxury brand wove martial artistry into modern design. An exhibition at Casa degli Artisti marked another milestone on MCM’s path to its 50th anniversary.

Taekwondo inspiration: MCM at Milan Fashion Week 2025

Taekwondo’s values of respect, balance and flow combined with cosmic undertones to centre the exhibition’s narrative, MCM said.

A holographic projection by Capsa Studio, along with a motion-sensing digital display of the latest MCM motif – a rabbit-robot hybrid called the Rabot – illuminated the space, guiding visitors to explore the runway-exclusive pieces.

For the looks, MCM's Chief Brand Officer Dirk Schönberger translated martial codes into sculptural silhouettes.

MCM's Rabot rabbit robot takes pride of place among the new bags

Belts folded into dresses, knots shaped mini-dresses, and trousers carried the calm intensity of the Taekwondo masters. Bomber jackets and tailored blazers echoed discipline while embracing fluidity.

Alongside the exclusives, MCM previewed its latest bag collection. Featuring bold colours and the Rabot rabbit robot, these styles offered a glimpse into MCM’s next era of innovation.

Spotlight on the MCM community

The presentation opened in true party style: cocktails, beats by New York DJ Malik Hendricks, and a vibe that transformed Casa degli Artisti into the IT scene. The energy was electric as guests celebrated, connected and danced through the night.

Guests, creators and MCM Mavericks joined the party, reflecting the global community that inspires the brand.

"Their attendance underscored MCM’s dialogue with a community shaping contemporary and digital culture," the company enthused.

Ice Spice 

Koolkid Nelly

Malink Lindo

New Suntory gin inspired by Japan’s art of layering

Suntory has expanded its super-premium Roku Gin portfolio with Roku Botanical Kasane Edition – a global travel retail exclusive that aims to exemplify the brand’s craftsmanship, “seasonal harmony” and premium positioning.

Super-premium: Roku Botanical Kasane Edition gin

Kasane is the Japanese art of perfect layering – colours, textures and shades inspired by the seasons. Roku Botanical Kasane edition seeks to embody this art form, layering botanicals for a richer, deeper flavour.

This exclusive expression enhances, then layers Roku’s six signature Japanese botanicals – Sakura flower and leaf, Sencha and Gyokuro teas, Sansho and Yuzu, all harvested at peak season.

Adding a fresh dimension to these rebalanced botanicals is a rice distillate that brings layered character, complemented by a smooth aftertaste, resulting in a more intense, elevated expression. Roku Botanical Kasane Edition is bottled at 47%abv, compared with 43%abv for the core expression.

Roku Botanical Kasane Edition made its travel retail debut in September 2025 at Singapore Changi Airport. The roll-out covers airports in Dubai, India, Hong Kong, Taiwan, London and Paris, and is supported by high-profile in-store activations.

To elevate the shopping experience – and bring the Kasane layering concept to life – the HPPs incorporate sampling and luxury branded gwps.

Kimono collaboration

Additionally, Suntory has collaborated with Chiso, Kyoto’s preeminent Kimono House established in 1555, to create a bespoke bottle label for the Roku Botanical Kasane Edition. This design integrates artistic interpretations of Roku’s six signature botanicals, blending heritage craftsmanship with a contemporary aesthetic.

“We are proud to introduce this new Roku expression exclusively to our travel retail partners,” said Nandini Valio, Suntory Global Spirits Senior Marketing Director for Global Travel Retail. “Premium gin remains a high-potential category in the channel, and we believe Roku Botanical Kasane Edition is perfectly positioned to capitalise on this opportunity.

“This elevated travel retail exclusive is more than just a new expression – it offers a truly special experience that travellers won’t find anywhere else.”

Underlining the new product’s versatility and layered botanical depth, recommended serves include the Kasane Gin Fizz cocktail.

Women in Travel Retail+ celebrates fundraising success

Women in Travel Retail+ (WiTR+) marked another milestone at this year’s networking event in Cannes, welcoming more than 350 members and guests for an evening of connection, celebration and charity.

Hosted by US drinks group Brown-Forman during the TFWA World Exhibition, the event brought together dynamic women and allies from across the travel retail industry. The evening was praised for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent hospitality and strong sense of community.

WiTR+ Chair Sarah Branquinho addresses the WiTR+ networking group

There was huge energy and buzz in the room as women shared their experiences. The special guest was Ylva Binder, whose conversation in 2006 with WiTR+ Chair Sarah Branquinho sparked the idea for WiTR.

At that time Binder worked for Bacardi, and she is now a distiller, as is Dr Rachel Barrie, Master Blender at Brown-Forman, who gave the audience a taste of her amazing career path and a swift master class tasting of Glendronach Scotch whisky.

A raffle raised funds for Toutes à l’École, which supports the education of disadvantaged girls in Cambodia, WiTR+’s 2025 charity.

Thanks to the "incredible generosity" of members and supporters – including significant donations from Victoria’s Secret and Brown-Forman – this year’s fundraising to refurbish the sleep and study areas for female students in Cambodia has surpassed its target.

WiTR+ members in party mood at Cannes

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+.”

WiTR+ extended its “heartfelt thanks” to Brown-Forman for hosting such a memorable event and to all members, partners and donors for their support.

For details on WiTR+, please visit www.womenintr.com.

Ferrero unveils hazelnut-shaped airport experience

Ferrero has launched its first global digital communications campaign at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, bringing its Quality at Heart commitment to life through an innovative installation to showcase Ferrero's values, heritage and responsible sourcing.

From 23 September to 20 October, travellers at Nice Airport are invited to explore an eye-catching hazelnut-shaped installation that guides them through the lifecycle of Ferrero’s ingredients, featured in best-selling products such as Ferrero Rocher. It traces the journey of the hazelnut, from the fields where it is cultivated to the final product enjoyed worldwide.

Ferrero's hazelnut-shaped Quality at Heart installation

Passengers could also walk through an immersive sustainability-themed digital tunnel inside the airport, alongside a network of 73 screens, ensuring strong brand visibility during their journeys.

The campaign was spotlighted at the 2025 TFWA World Exhibition in Cannes, where Ferrero unveiled upcoming novelties from its powerful brand portfolio, while reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and responsible consumption.

Ferrero has renewed its Hazelnut Charter which promotes regenerative farming practices, fair working conditions and full supply chain transparency.

Today, more than 90% of hazelnuts are traceable back to individual farms, and more than 21,000 farmers have been trained in sustainable cultivation.

Exclusive Tic Tac TWO campaign

In other news, Ferrero Travel Market has partnered with Avolta and Ticketmaster to create a high-impact promotional campaign to support the global roll-out of Tic Tac TWO – the brand’s first sugar-free offering in the travel retail channel.

Following its debut at the 2024 TFWA World Exhibition, Tic Tac TWO has rapidly gained traction among a new generation of travellers, attracted by its sugar-free positioning and distinctive double-layered flavour experience.

Travel retail exclusive: Ferrero's Tic Tac TWO campaign

The Tic Tac TWO initiative is exclusive to travel retail and offers shoppers the opportunity to win a Ticketmaster voucher worth up to €300. 

The Ticketmaster partnership pays homage to Tic Tac’s long-standing association with music and festival culture, engaging younger consumers through fun, socially shared experiences.

The promotion runs from mid-September through October at high-footfall airport locations in Barcelona, Ibiza and Palma de Mallorca – all selected to engage the brand’s key Gen Z and millennial target demographics.

The Tic Tac TWO x Ticketmaster competition is open to all travellers who are members of the Club Avolta loyalty programme. Shoppers who purchase two Tic Tac TWO products are entered into a draw to win a €300 Ticketmaster voucher. Each location has been allocated 10 winning vouchers.

To amplify visibility and encourage participation, the promotion is being supported by a branded newsletter and Club Avolta member push notifications.

A new chapter for Tic Tac in travel retail

“The launch of Tic Tac TWO represents an exciting new chapter for the brand in travel retail,” said Sergio Salvagno, General Manager of Ferrero Travel Market.

“By partnering with Avolta and Ticketmaster in this way, we are not only showcasing innovation in product development, but also delivering an engaging, relevant experience for today’s travellers. This campaign is a perfect example of how Ferrero is evolving its travel retail strategy to better connect with different consumer profiles and evolving purchasing behaviours.”

Tic Tac TWO is available in two flavours: Strawberry & Lime and Spearmint Fresh & Mild. Each box contains 38 Tic Tac Twos, all of which are double the size of traditional Tic Tacs. The two layers deliver two distinctive flavours at the same time – consumers simply flip to enjoy.

Luxe Pack Monaco packs a punch in 2025

Luxe Pack Monaco, the leading event for creative luxury packaging, underwent a transformation this year with 450 exhibitors in the newly expanded Grimaldi Forum venue.

Held from 29 September to 1 October 2025, Luxe Pack introduced two major features: The Portal and The Col’Lab.

Luxe Pack Monaco

In response to the rapid transformation of the industry, The Portal was a new space dedicated to packaging innovation, highlighting disruptive and responsible solutions. This immersive space was structured around four main areas:

Eco-innovation: biomaterials, sustainability, recycling, circular economy;

Smart packaging: connectivity, traceability, blockchain, IoT, cybersecurity;

Artificial Intelligence: generative AI, data intelligence;

Design and experience: UX/UI, augmented reality, 3D visualisation, 3D printing.

Described as a new space for dialogue, The Col’Lab brought together consortiums, collectives and associations committed to the sustainable transformation of packaging and luxury.

The Col’Lab hosted presentations of initiatives and collective projects; meetings with players such as SPICE, RESET, EcoBeautyScore, Circul’R, B Beauty and the Green Impact Index; and conferences.

This year's event unified the Luxe Formulation (formulation and full-service) and Luxe Home (scented accessories) sectors in the same hall. This regrouping reflects the convergence of sensory worlds – cosmetics and home fragrances – and responds to growing consumer demand for comprehensive, multisensory experiences.

Committed initiatives

The Luxe Pack in Green exhibition celebrated its 14th edition with a stronger focus on eco-design. Two categories were highlighted: best packaging solutions and most impactful CSR initiatives.

La Fabrique Singulière was an immersion into artisanal know-how serving luxury and brand storytelling.

The Make a Mark initiative brought together packaging design agencies around sustainability and creativity, with Estal, Avery Dennison and Leonhard Kurz.

The Formes de Luxe exhibition of the finalists of the Formes de Luxe Awards showcased major packaging innovations.

And on the occasion of the Year of the Sea, Besign returned to Luxe Pack Monaco. Students from the international school of sustainable design presented “Ocean Contest: How can brands take action for ocean protection?”, an initiative that questioned the role of brands in ocean preservation.

Meanwhile, the future-focused conference programme explored AI, simulation and digital twins; augmented supply chain; eco-design and the desire for luxury; new aesthetics in China; global regulatory mapping; Middle Eastern consumers; and redefining the emotional value of luxury.

Among the renowned speakers were LVMH Recherche, Chanel, Christian Dior Parfums, La Prairie, Pernod Ricard, Moët Hennessy, La Rosée, L’Occitane and Groupe Yves Rocher.

Bric’s brims with confidence at TFWA World Exhibition

Italian luxury luggage brand Bric's presented its collection of Porsche Design luggage at the 2025 TFWA World Exhibition in October.

Speaking to MJ Rabbit on its super-busy stand at the Cannes fair, Bric’s Travel Retail Manager Michele Maccapani said: “The Porsche Design Collection of aluminium luggage has been highly successful for us, and Orlando Bloom is the new brand ambassador.

“Also, we’ve had a major hit with the Bric’s Bellagio collection of luggage, which was recently carried on set by Anne Hathaway.”

The Bellagio collection features the cute new mini Bellagio Legacy bag, which was modelled at the fair by Bric’s PR & Communication Manager Luisa Puggioni.

Orlando Bloom is the new Porsche Design brand ambassador

Bric’s inks luggage deal with Replay

In other news, Fashion Box, the premium casualwear group and parent company of the Replay denim brand, has signed an agreement with Bric's to create and distribute a collection of luggage and travel accessories.

The exclusive worldwide licence lasts four years and includes the launch of the first Bric's Replay Fall/Winter 2025 collection in high-end retail shops, in Replay flagship stores and online: www.replayjeans.com and www.brics.it.

The special edition is inspired by Bric’s best-selling X-Collection, made of recycled fabric. It includes soft trolleys, a weekend bag, an underseat backpack, handbags and other travel items.

All items are available in two colour variants: camouflage with orange lining, or sand-wood with teal blue lining.

Passion, innovation and heritage

The collection stands out for its branding: Replay’s signature triangle denim label, customised R-shaped pull-tabs, inner linings embellished with Replay’s tagline 'Follow your dreams', and a metal rhombus-shaped co-branded logo.

Fashion Box CEO Matteo Sinigaglia said: "Bric's is an Italian company with an important background in the luggage sector. We immediately saw an affinity that led to this partnership, as we share passion, innovation and an extraordinary heritage."

Bric's President Roberto Briccola said: "We are excited about this collaboration with Replay, a brand that shares our values of tradition and innovation. This collection combines Bric's know-how with Replay’s unmistakable identity, creating a unique offer for contemporary travellers."

Monaco Yacht Show ends on a high note

After four days, the 34th Monaco Yacht Show closed another year as a successful showcase for the world’s finest vessels.

The 2025 show featured more than 400 stands and 120 of the world’s most important yachts on display in Port Hercule, ranging from 25-metre classics to 100-metre megayachts.

More than 30,000 visitors attended the 34th edition, first launched in 1991 under the patronage of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II.

Prince Albert receives a donation for his Foundation at the Monaco Yacht Show (Palais Princier)

During his official visit to the show on 25 September 2025, Prince Albert received a €54,000 donation to support His Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, presented by Gaëlle Tallarida, Managing Director of the Monaco Yacht Show, and Lord Stephen Carter, CEO of Informa Group, the show organiser.

Olivier Wenden, Vice-President and CEO of the Foundation, welcomed this gesture, which is renewed each year.

Since 2010, the Monaco Yacht Show has supported the Foundation's initiatives, notably the Ice Memory project, which aims to study climate change and its effects by preserving ice cores from glaciers that are at risk of degradation or disappearance.

Celebrating the world of yachting

The donation was officially presented aboard the catamaran Reduce (35.9m, 2024), built by Silver Yachts and winner of the Special Jury Award at the inaugural Monaco Yacht Show Blue Wake Awards, in recognition of its eco-friendly innovations.

This visit followed a stop aboard the sailing yacht Maximus (59.29m, 2024), built by Vitters Shipyard and also nominated in the category.

The donation marked the conclusion of the Sovereign’s tour of the show, during which he engaged with exhibitors in the Upper Deck Lounge.

Prince Albert also paused to discover the photographic exhibition Tribute to Yachting. Curated by the Monaco Yacht Show in collaboration with photographer Guillaume Plisson, the exhibition offered visitors an artistic and poetic immersion celebrating the world of yachting.

Swaine accelerates its global expansion

Swaine is set to expand internationally to meet the growing demand for quiet luxury.

Adding to its London flagship in New Bond Street, the brand is joining UK department store Harrods. A dedicated corner within the luxury menswear collection showcases its three iconic lines: leather goods, umbrellas and hats.

Swaine, a symbol of British luxury since 1750, is continuing its international expansion, starting this Summer with a corner at the prestigious Hotel Palace in Montreux, Switzerland.

And in Autumn 2025, Swaine will reach a new milestone by opening its first US location in Beverly Hills, at the heart of Los Angeles' luxury district.

Swaine's London flagship store

The US represents Swaine’s largest and most dynamic market and is a major driver of growth and brand influence. This opening also reinforces the brand’s deep connection with the film industry, just steps from Hollywood. The boutique will feature an exclusive selection that blends iconic on-screen pieces, timeless classics, bespoke offerings and a capsule collection of small leather goods available only in Los Angeles.

In addition to these openings, Swaine has launched a series of trunk shows. The first took place in Monaco in September, followed by a second edition in February 2026 at Badrutt’s Palace in St Moritz.

Carine de Koenigswarter, President of Personal Goods at Swaine's Paris-based owner Compagnie Chargeurs Invest, said: “Swaine’s development is part of a long-term investment strategy. Over the past few years, Swaine has strengthened its offering for women, men, the home and the art of living. In parallel, the establishment of new workshops in England has reinforced its exceptional craftsmanship and its ability to showcase the finest materials in leather goods, hats and accessories.”

Swaine's London flagship store

A lifestyle brand

Reflecting the spirit of Swaine’s reinvention as a lifestyle brand, this targeted expansion is “cost-conscious and not driven by a race for scale. Rather, it embodies a meticulous approach, offering high-quality touch-points dedicated to serving our clients”, de Koenigswarter said.

“The trunk shows we are launching will extend the experience of our flagship store – a privileged encounter with bespoke craftsmanship, even far from New Bond Street.

“This commercial strategy is designed to leverage the very specific interest of affluent consumers in quiet luxury brands – those that are discreet rather than ostentatious, valued for their creativity, authenticity and exceptional quality." 

The invitation-only trunk shows offer an immersive experience into the world of Swaine, presenting made-to-measure pieces to international clients and partners.

About Compagnie Chargeurs Invest

Compagnie Chargeurs Invest is a mixed industrial and financial company with a role as an operator and developer of global champions in industry and services, and as an investor with a culture of active portfolio management of high value-added businesses. Present in nearly 100 countries with around 2,600 employees, Compagnie Chargeurs Invest relies on the long-term  commitment of Groupe Familial Fribourg, a committed controlling shareholder, and on its portfolio of assets, to meet the major challenges of its markets. Compagnie Chargeurs Invest achieved revenues of €729.6 million in 2024.

Furla chief sets out new brand ambitions

Italian fashion accessories brand Furla has renewed its commitment to the travel retail channel under new CEO Eraldo Poletto.

The seasoned fashion executive has made a welcome return to Furla, where he worked as CEO alongside the founding Furlanetto family more than a decade ago. (For details, see my interview with Eraldo Poletto in 2013.)

Furla's Iride bag

Speaking to journalists at the TFWA World Exhibition, Poletto hinted at his long-term ambitions for the accessible luxury brand and acknowledged that the journey has only just started.

He spoke of a “relaunch of brand passion for the product”, sparked in no small way by Gerry Munday, the supremely experienced travel retail executive whose passion for the channel knows no bounds.

“We can rebuild the brand with our knowledge and expertise,” Poletto said, noting the evolution of the airport shopping experience, where he’s seeing the establishment of more malls. “It’s an exciting time,” he enthused.

The travel retail market focus for Furla will centre on airports in Europe, the Middle East and Asia, including China.

Furla Spring/Summer 2026

At Cannes, Furla introduced its Spring/Summer 2026 collection, which explores Milan’s intimate details: refined entryways that open onto secluded gardens, interiors where metal meets marble, glass offsets ceramic, and mosaic plays against natural stone.

Leading the season is the Iride bag, dubbed ”the ultimate expression of the brand’s colourful and playful spirit and a vibrant explosion of joy”. At the heart of this new icon stands a sculptural jewel-like hardware, where Furla’s signature arch logo is reimagined with a diamond-cut design. Smooth and rounded to the touch, the closure is both a visual and tactile centrepiece, guiding the bag’s entire design.

The hardware plays with light and perspective, offered in either classic gold tones or in the same bold, vibrant hues of the bags. Seasonal colours are Mudec Yellow, Amatore Blue, Aperitivo Orange, Velvet Pink and Carta da Zucchero Blue.

Named after the Italian word for iris and rainbow, the Iride bag is available as a crossbody or a mini hobo and with an adjustable leather strap that allows for versatile styling.

With a nearly century-long heritage dating back to 1927, and a renewed vision for the future, Furla returned to TFWA to strengthen its presence in travel retail.

“This is the perfect moment to re-engage with our partners, introduce our newest designs and reaffirm our position as a leading voice in accessible luxury. Our objective is to highlight the evolution of Furla, where heritage meets innovation, and timeless elegance embraces playful modernity,” he concluded.