Sterling Perfumes brings fun to Cannes show

Sterling Perfumes has introduced its fun take on fragrances at the TFWA World Exhibition, featuring exclusive launches and line extensions.

The star product launch is Island Breeze, the latest addition to the UAE-based fragrance specialist’s flagship ARMAF brand. 

Island Breeze takes inspiration from summer vibes and a welcome island breeze, with notes of Pink Peach, Rose, Vanilla and Floral Musk.

ARMAF is known for its sleek packaging and commitment to accessible luxury, and this new fragrance is presented in a striking bottle with details of a chic milkshake garnished with a cherry. The fragrance was revealed officially on 29 September.

Island Breeze’s debut follows last year’s successful launch – also at the TFWA fair – of ARMAF Delights’ Yum Yum and Island Bliss fragrances for women.

Fun and new: Sterling Perfumes' Dubai Chocolat fragrance

Sterling Group Chairman and CEO Dr Ali Asgar Fakhruddin said: “After a phenomenal response to our product launches in 2024, we now have Island Breeze ready to take on the world. This exciting new fragrance underscores ARMAF’S place in the international fragrance scene.”

Another first for Sterling (outside the US market) is the new Odyssey line-up which includes popular gourmand trendsetters – Marshmallow, Black Forest, Toffee Coffee, Ba Ha Mas and Go Mango. 

Influencer engagement

Sterling is expecting significant KOL engagement in its new on-stand Creator’s Lounge with a number of Master Perfumer sessions planned from Arturetto Landi, among others. 

Hamidi, with its ornamental oil collections and innovative non-alcoholic fragrance range, is featured on the exhibition stand, along with Risala, which offers a modern take on haute parfumerie with its playful, sharp twists on novel fragrance concepts. Other brands such as Just Jack, Jenny Glow, Flavia and Artistic Perfumery are on display in Cannes.

Sterling Perfumes Managing Director Hamza Fakhruddin said: “Sterling continues to live up to its name, shining and standing out in the fragrance sector through its ability to offer accessible luxury whilst combining heritage with innovation.

“Our new experiential stand is a milestone for Sterling. The Creator’s Lounge and Master Perfumer sessions will bring visitors closer to the art of fragrance-making, creating moments of discovery and interaction that reflect our brand philosophy. It’s not just about seeing the products – it’s about experiencing the creativity and passion behind them.”

He noted the strength of Sterling’s business in the Middle East and Asian markets. “Sterling has expanded its presence in multiple locations across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and India with a wide variety of brand penetrations. 

“We are seeing great interest from multiple operators who recognise our agility and our trend-setting capabilities. Importantly, we are always open to doing something fun and new."

Monaco businessman to lead global tourism body

Manfredi Lefebvre, Chairman of Heritage Group and Co-Chair of Abercrombie & Kent, has been appointed Chair-Elect of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). He will formally take over the role in September at the organisation’s Global Summit in Rome (28-30 September 2025).

Manfredi Lefebvre

A resident of Monaco, Lefebvre has been a member of the Council for more than two decades and brings with him over 40 years of experience in the cruise and leisure industries. He is recognised for transforming Silversea Cruises into a global leader before diversifying into investments through his Monaco-based Heritage Group, which is active in biotechnology, medical technologies, energy transition, real estate, IT and premium spirits.

WTTC President and CEO Julia Simpson welcomed the announcement: “Manfredi is a powerhouse in our sector. He brings with him decades of experience, and under his stewardship I am sure we will achieve unprecedented success.”

From building Silversea Cruises into a world-class brand to co-chairing luxury travel company Abercrombie & Kent, Lefebvre’s influence has shaped the modern landscape of global tourism. As Chair-Elect of the WTTC, he will guide the industry at a time when travel continues to outpace wider economic growth.

MCM turns Seoul flagship into Be@rbrick Wonderland

MCM has reimagined its Seoul flagship into a whimsical, multi-sensory exhibition space for collectible Be@rbrick toys – featuring a giant Be@rbrick bear on the roof of the five-storey building.

A collectible Be@arbrick toy on the roof of MCM Haus in Seoul

In collaboration with @medicom_toy, Be@rbrick in MCM Wonderland brings together diverse creative voices that transform MCM Haus into a landscape where art, craft and design converge.

The exhibition, which runs from 3 to 30 September, features INDEN-YA, ken yashiki and Nobuki Hizume – three artists whose works transform Be@rbrick into unexpected forms of cultural expression.

MCM Be@arbrick collector's items

“Through the iconic Be@rbrick form, the exhibition becomes a canvas where Japanese craftsmanship meets contemporary art, and imagination intersects with identity,” the German brand said.

Be@rbrick in MCM Wonderland invites visitors into an immersive experience where art, fashion and pop culture collide. The result seeks to embody the next generation of storytelling, craftsmanship and cultural imagination.

As part of the event, MCM unveils three limited-edition Be@rbrick collector’s items.

The sculptural elegance of Nobuki Hizume

Japanese milliner Nobuki Hizume brings his couture headpiece expertise to the Be@rbrick form. His sculptural figures adorn the exhibition’s entrance in a striking window display. Though he did not design one of the collectible figures for sale, his contribution set the tone for the entire experience by balancing theatrical beauty with serene minimalism.

The MCM Haus window display featuring Nobuki Hizume hats

Manga realism by ken yashiki

On the third floor, Japanese artist ken yashiki’s Be@rbrick characters stand amid a poetic landscape of cosmos flowers, his signature bloom. Known for blending pop art with manga-inspired aesthetics, yashiki infuses each figure with raw emotional energy and bright, youthful colour.

Manga-inspired Be@arbrick toys by Japanese artist ken yashiki

Crafting legacy with INDEN-YA

Representing over 400 years of Japanese craftsmanship, INDEN-YA introduces its traditional lacquer-on-deerskin technique to the Be@rbrick format for the first time. This Kōshū Inden method creates a unique collector’s item, blending tradition with street iconography and underscoring MCM’s celebration of cultural convergence.

Thai actress Nam Tan meets Be@arbrick in MCM Wonderland

To set the stage for this one-of-a-kind exhibition, guests were invited to an evening launch event during Frieze Seoul 2025 art fair, featuring music and dancing. Food and beverages, detailed with MCM and Be@rbrick touches, were served at the MCM Haus Café for a complete sensory experience.

Ferrero to showcase sustainability vision in Cannes

Italian confectionery group Ferrero will showcase novelties from its brand portfolio at the TFWA World Exhibition, while reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.

Tablets are a key priority, demonstrated by the launch of the new Ferrero Rocher 70% dark chocolate bar, developed for dark chocolate enthusiasts. At the Cannes show, Ferrero will also unveil the new visual identity for its Ferrero Rocher tablets, incorporating a clean, minimalist aesthetic and prominent Travel Exclusive branding.

Importantly, the reverse of this new packaging will also highlight Ferrero’s evolving sustainability strategy, via an on-pack QR code that connects consumers to information about the company’s quality and sustainability initiatives. In a related move, from this month the packaging of the Ferrero Rocher premium chocolate range will be 100% recyclable.

New: Kinder & Co Mix variety pack

Expanding the Kinder universe

Ferrero will build on the success of its Kinder brand with the launch of two new travel retail exclusive formats. Kinder & Co Mix is a 179g variety pack composed of Kinder and Ferrero products including Kinder Bueno, Hanuta Minis, Tronky and Duplo. The Kinder & Co White Mix 137g is a white chocolate-focused edition that includes Kinder Bueno White, Kinder Schoko-Bons White and Duplo White.

Ferrero will also update its Kinder Surprise T4x20 Natoons collection with new dinosaur-inspired Dinos toys, supported by interactive content via the Applaydu app.

With the biscuit category gaining strong traction in travel retail, Ferrero is scaling up its pioneering La Biscotteria concept, encompassing nine products from six brands: Nutella B-ready, Nutella Biscuits, Kinder Cards, Kinder Happy Hippo, Kinder Duo and Kinder Kinderini.

From September, Ferrero will roll out an innovative Say It With digital activation for La Biscotteria, tapping into the gifting trend. After purchasing the product, shoppers can scan the QR code on the pack to record a personalised digital message. Once gifted, the recipient simply scans the same code to unlock the message – turning a treat into a memorable moment.

Ferrero's pioneering La Biscotteria range

New from Nutella

Other reveals at Cannes will include the latest instalments of the Nutella Next Destination series. These travel retail exclusive packs contain 3 x 30g jars of Nutella, each labelled with the name of a different country, to drive destination inspiration.

For 2025, Ferrero is bringing breakfast to life with an interactive twist: a QR code placed on the outer packaging leads to a digital experience titled “Every Place, A Good Morning”. The landing page unlocks a colourful world map filled with morning traditions, travel inspiration and local breakfast recipes. Visitors can discover how to say “good morning” in various languages and explore fun cultural curiosities from around the globe.

This month, Ferrero will debut a high-profile sustainability-themed activation at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, highlighting the brand’s Quality at Heart credentials. This immersive concept will also be showcased at this year’s Cannes booth, underlining Ferrero’s holistic approach to responsible consumption.

The airport pop-up will be reinforced by an impactful media campaign, with the Quality at Heart initiative taking over Nice Airport from September 26 to October 2. During this period, travellers will experience an immersive digital tunnel alongside a network of 73 screens.

A bold, hazelnut-shaped installation will celebrate the brand’s iconic ingredient. Crafted from natural wood tones and lush greenery, the structure invites visitors into a multi-sensory journey through immersive stations that highlight Ferrero’s commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability. A playful maze game traces the hazelnut’s transformation from farm to finished product.

Sergio Salvagno, General Manager of Ferrero Travel Market, said: “We are delighted to return to the TFWA World Exhibition to present our latest innovations across confectionery, biscuits and gifting. Each new launch has been carefully developed to meet the evolving expectations of travelling consumers, blending premiumisation, exclusivity and digital engagement, to elevate the shopper experience.

“As consumers become more environmentally conscious, they’re seeking brands that not only deliver excellence, but also embody purpose. In response, we are focused on delivering value-added formats, meaningful gifting solutions and exclusive travel retail products – while clearly reinforcing our long-term commitment to sustainability."

MCM blends retro-futurism with utility for Fall

MCM has launched the next chapter of its From Munich to Mars journey for Fall/Winter 2025 with a collection crafted for Cyber-Galactic Nomads on the move.

Blending retro-futurism with utility, it fuses bold silhouettes, fresh materials and forward-thinking colour with the German brand’s signature design language. Driven by a vision of freedom and motion, it reimagines identity – on Earth or beyond.

MCM Herringbone Visetos FW25

The third and final chapter brings the journey full circle with a refined return to MCM’s heritage. Cognac Visetos re-emerges, now embossed with gold-toned herringbone weaves that add both texture and a subtle architectural edge. Striking a balance between softness and structure, this drop blurs the line between statement and staple by providing a futuristic nuance to tradition.

MCM Khaki Moss Visetos FW25

The second chapter grounds the collection in earthy tones, with khaki green anchoring the monogram across signature silhouettes like the Stark Backpack and Toni Shopper. Crafted from sustainable materials such as upcycled leather, recycled nylon and soft suede, this drop expands the range with new iterations of the Gym Backpack and Mama Bag, blending elevated design with everyday functionality.

MCM Blue Denim Visetos FW25

The first drop in the collection transforms MCM’s classic Visetos through a futuristic lens, introducing vibrant Blue Visetos and tactile Blue Denim Visetos – colours inspired by the energy of the deep sea and outer space. Featured across weekenders, multibackpacks and more, Blue Denim adds rich texture, while Blue Visetos brings a bold, electric edge.

Directed by Katharina Korbjuhn and shot by Yis Kid, the Cyber-Galactic Nomads campaign presents a futuristic vision where style intersects with technology, architecture and AI. 

“Blurring the line between real and rendered, it explores how identity, motion, and self-expression evolve in an increasingly technological world where individuality is the ultimate statement,” MCM said.

Heinemann supercharges cruise retail presence

Heinemann Americas has launched a bold new cruise retail concept onboard Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas, delivering first-at-sea exclusives and redefining immersive shopping at sea.

With 10 retail venues onboard, the vessel features exclusive Royal Caribbean logo merchandise, fine watches and fashion jewellery, fragrances and cosmetics, as well as vintage luxury leather goods and timepieces. A standout highlight is a collection of prestige and rare spirits, crafted to surprise and captivate connoisseurs.

The beauty offer onboard Star of the Seas

The new retail offer builds on the success of Icon of the Seas, with a focus on curated exclusivity, elevated design and category innovation across four distinct store formats.

The liquor experience onboard Star of the Seas introduces several first-at-sea features, including personalised backwalls for Macallan, Hennessy and Patrón, a dedicated Johnnie Walker gondola, and a limited-edition Louis XIII monogrammed box hand-decorated exclusively for the ship, with only 30 pieces available globally. Among the rare offerings is a bottle of Loch Lomond 50yo, one of just 100 worldwide, retailing at $34,999. The store also debuts multiple exclusive barrel programmes, such as Angel's Envy – selected by Heinemann’s team as a first-at-sea – and the rare O.F.C Bourbon 1985.

Luxury timepieces are available in branded shop-in-shop formats from Cartier, Hublot, Breitling, TAG Heuer, Longines, Rado and Norquain, a new brand for Heinemann. Swiss Crown complements the offer with a curated selection of pre-owned Rolex watches.

Cartier's shop-in-shop onboard Star of the Seas

Meanwhile, the logo merchandise store presents a new collection designed exclusively for Star of the Seas, featuring fashion-forward apparel, collectibles and a children’s line. The Vineyard Vines x Royal Caribbean co-branded range – introduced on Icon and Utopia – returns with a refreshed capsule, adding a familiar and updated touch to the retail experience.

“With Star of the Seas, we continue our mission to elevate cruise retail through storytelling, exclusivity and unforgettable experiences,” said Nicolas Hoeborn, CEO of Heinemann Americas. “This launch is a testament to our strong partnership with Royal Caribbean and our shared vision for the future of travel retail.”

The Collection store offers second-hand Louis Vuitton merchandise

Together with Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas ranks among the largest cruise ships in the world, measuring 365 metres in length and accommodating up to 5,610 guests and 2,850 crew members. It is the sixth Royal Caribbean vessel to feature Heinemann’s retail offer, following Utopia of the Seas, Icon of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas and Independence of the Seas.

Top DJ Martin Solveig to appear at Cannes fair

TFWA World Exhibition has shared details of a packed networking programme at this year's Cannes show, including an appearance by top DJ Martin Solveig.

The week will kick off with para-sports activities, including blind football and wheelchair rugby on Sunday morning (28 September) co-organised by the Stade Toulousain Handisport charity and TFWA and supported by travel retail analyst m1nd-set. As part of this year’s Yes We Cannes para-sports programme, the 500-kilometre para-bike ride from Toulouse will conclude in Cannes, with riders scheduled to arrive in front of Cannes City Hall at 17:30 on 27 September.

This will be followed by the opening cocktail held at the Carlton Beach from 19:00. Access to all networking events is complimentary for badge holders.

The popular TFWA Lounge will return with both after-work and night-time sessions taking place on Monday (29 September) and Tuesday between 18:30 and 21:00 and 22:00 and 01:00. On Wednesday at 22:00, the beach will be transformed into the Phenomena Club. This glamorous nightspot will feature a stellar line-up of DJs, including Martin Solveig who will keep revellers on the dance floor until 02:00.

TFWA President Philippe Margueritte said: “Networking is a core part of attending a TFWA event and remains vital for the progress of an industry that is forged on relationships. This year’s programme reflects our commitment to creating meaningful connections in unforgettable settings. Alongside the chance to exchange ideas, conduct business and explore new opportunities, delegates can seed and grow new partnerships in a relaxed atmosphere. We look forward to connecting the industry once again in Cannes later this year."

Monaco Yacht Show spotlights sustainable innovations

Monaco Yacht Show is set to present practical and environmentally sustainable innovations as part of its MYS Blue Wake Program (24-27 September 2025). 

Among the solutions are:

Shipyards 

Azimut Yachts and Benetti use HVO fuel for fleet trials, cutting over 75% of CO₂ emissions versus standard diesel (RED II).

Conrad Shipyard The Conrad COONE 140 blends luxury and sustainability with hybrid propulsion, regenerative sailing and zero-emission capability.

Rossinavi Seawolf X, Rossinavi’s hybrid-electric catamaran, merges solar, battery and AI systems for luxury cruising with significantly reduced environmental impact.

Tankoa Yachts‘ Vitruvius models feature parallel hybrid propulsion, offering silent cruising, reduced emissions and fuel savings with advanced battery packs.

Varador 2000 Shipyard & Marina Barcelona reduces freshwater use by 15% through pioneering desalination.

Tenders and water toys

Frauscher Boats: The Frauscher x Porsche combines stylish design with advanced electric power, giving a quiet, zero-emission boating experience.

SEAir Flying Boat designs luxury hydrofoil boats that reduce fuel use, boost speed and improve comfort.

TYKUN’s H1 hydrogen propulsion offers innovative, efficient and customisable solutions designed in Italy for high performance and low environmental impact.

U-Boat Worx builds electric submersibles with zero emissions, enabling quiet underwater exploration for tourism, research and conservation.

Equipment

Atlas Marine Systems’ ShorPOWER converters cut CO₂, noise and fuel use while providing stable, reliable shore power worldwide.

Cramm Yachting Systems’ electric telescopic gangway offers a cleaner, quieter boarding solution for luxury yachts.

FlowGrill delivers custom ventilation systems reducing energy use and emissions, with recyclable materials and local production.

Services

BOND Support Services optimises yacht HVAC systems, cutting energy use, emissions and costs through fine-tuning, digital twins and predictive maintenance.

William Grant & Sons revs up for Cannes show

UK independent family-owned Scotch whisky specialist William Grant & Sons will return to the TFWA World Exhibition in Cannes next month in a space that highlights premium storytelling and showcases its portfolio of exclusive and high-aged liquids.

The stand design is inspired by The Balvenie and Glenfiddich shop-in-shop concepts and is developed around shopper needs and behaviours in duty free.

To celebrate Silent Pool Gin’s partnership with Royal Ascot, the brand will take over the stand terrace, and cocktails featuring Silent Pool Original Gin and Silent Pool Mediterranean Expression will be served.

Among the highlights on-stand will be the debut of the global travel retail exclusive Glenfiddich 19-Year-Old Limited Edition in partnership with Aston Martin Formula One Team. The new release embodies the values of innovation, mastery and heritage shared by the two brands.

Glenfiddich will celebrate its partnership with the Aston Martin Formula One Team in Cannes

Malt Master Brian Kinsman will host private tastings for select customers, offering them the opportunity to explore the craftsmanship, innovation and heritage behind Glenfiddich single malt Scotch whiskies.

Daily cocktail hours (17.00 to 18.00) will offer guests the chance to experience the portfolio in a relaxed and sociable setting. And throughout the week, Global Travel Retail Brand Ambassador Ashvin Joshi will engage visitors with immersive tastings and stories behind the brands.

Rufus Parkinson, Regional Managing Director - Global Travel Retail, William Grant & Sons, said: “Our global travel retail portfolio is designed to meet the evolving demands of travellers seeking experiences and innovations. From limited editions to exclusive expressions, we aim to spark curiosity and deliver exceptional experiences. TFWA is always a highlight for connecting with partners and sharing what’s next for our brands in this dynamic channel."

Molton Brown launches artistic summer campaign

UK fragrance house Molton Brown has introduced a series of high-impact installations in travel retail doors, in partnership with Avolta-owned World Duty Free, as part of its Summer 2025 campaign to support its best-selling Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold fragrance.

Timed to coincide with the peak summer travelling season, the eye-catching Must Have Tables are live at London Heathrow Terminal 2 and T5, and at London Stansted, from 5 August until 3 September.

Molton Brown's best-selling Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold collection

The Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold collection includes Eau de Parfum, Bath & Shower Gel, Body Lotion, Fine Liquid Hand Wash, Hand Lotion, Candles, Aroma Reeds and Aroma Reed Refills.

A curated selection is being highlighted on the Must Have Tables, which feature a QR code customers can scan to discover more. The information is available in English, French and German. Travellers who spend £120 will receive a 7.5ml Travel Eau de Parfum gwp.

Brand storytelling through Artists of Note

Introduced in 2015, Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold was Molton Brown’s most successful fragrance in 2024. Composed by Senior Perfumer Sylvie Fischer, its winning formula takes wearers seamlessly from day to night, thanks to its signature note of olibanum resin.

Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold is the latest addition to Molton Brown’s pioneering Artists of Note series, which invites creatives to reimagine the brand’s fragrances through their unique media, to express the sensorial power of scent.

For Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold, Molton Brown chose London-based multi-disciplinary artist Karimah Hassan. Her distinctive “paint out loud” approach sees her express the scent in a painting and poem called The Golden Bridge.

“This natural meeting of perfumery and artistry is a true reflection of Molton Brown’s dedication to craftsmanship and the emotional connection we forge with scent,” the company said.

Drawing from her rich Welsh, Yemeni and Bangladeshi background, along with her strong identity as a Londoner, Hassan creates large-scale paintings and installations alive with legacy, memory and heritage. Collaborating with brands such as Burberry, and with exhibitions in Selfridges and The Rosewood, she is inspired by the fresh, raw energy of the city and its wave of painters, writers, designers and musicians moving as one.

Molton Brown's Must Have Table in travel retail

"I strive for radiance"

With The Golden Bridge, Hassan uses her multi-faceted practice to depict the “alchemy of turning scent into ceremony”.

“I strive for radiance through my painting and poetry,” Hassan noted. “I work with layers of colour, of story, of emotion.” Of the fragrance, she declared: “It makes me feel like a goddess – like I’m charging forward on a chariot.”

Much like how the scent unfurls note by note, Hassan’s artwork demands a second look to uncover its hidden intricacies. Captured in a diptych – one single composition across two connected portraits – the expressive layers of golds, rich ambers and burnt reds perfectly merge with unexpected textures to display a heady, dreamlike oasis.

“As one of our enduring best-sellers, Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold is a key priority for us in the travel retail channel, and we have a number of exciting initiatives planned for this strategic focus,” said Molton Brown Key Account Manager Global Travel Retail Rohanne Collis. “This summer’s Must Have Tables offer a strong platform to build on this fragrance’s momentum, while also celebrating its latest evolution as part of our Artists of Note series."

Metaxa targets a new generation

In an exciting development, Rémy Cointreau-owned Greek amber spirit brand Metaxa has entered the fast-growing ready-to-drink (RTD) category.

Two new canned cocktails are inspired by Greece: Peach Spritz and Ginger & Lime Long Drink.

This significant milestone seeks to reimagine the Metaxa experience for a new generation of consumers.

Metaxa's new RTD cocktail duo

The global RTD market is projected to surpass $50 billion by 2030, with the 23-25-year-old age group driving much of this growth. Metaxa’s RTD offer targets urban, socially active consumers in pursuit of authentic taste.

Each 250ml can combines Metaxa’s signature blend of aromatic Muscat wines, aged wine distillates and Mediterranean botanicals with natural fruit flavours, offering a fresh, lower-alcohol alternative for on-the-go enjoyment.

The 250ml cans echo the brand's popular classic cocktails, and are crafted for easy accessibility, with a playful, modern aesthetic that captures the vibrant spirit of Greece. Both cocktails contain 5%abv, catering to the growing demand for lower alcohol options.

Metaxa RTD is available in Greek duty free shops at airports in Athens, Rhodes, Chania and Heraklion.

“This RTD launch marks a pivotal moment for Metaxa, as we further evolve the brand to connect with a new, younger generation of consumers who value convenience, authenticity and bold flavour experiences,” enthused Rémy Cointreau Marketing Director Global Travel Retail Alice Hoffmann.

New limited-edition products

Metaxa 12 Stars Zeus Limited Edition is a new product targeted at younger legal-drinking age travellers. It features the same distinctive taste as the classic Metaxa 12 Stars, presented in a striking new contemporary bottle design. The concept references the Greek god of sky and thunder, and is positioned as the ideal choice to “light up the night partying”, the company said.

Metaxa 7 Stars Greek Riviera Limited Edition

Metaxa 7 Stars Greek Riviera Limited Edition is a new travel retail exclusive created for travellers who are seeking gifts and souvenirs that incorporate a taste of their summer holiday. This limited edition is available in selected airport doors including Greece, Germany, Romania, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Bulgaria, Finland, Latvia, Australia and the UAE.

In-store tastings led by brand ambassadors, price promotions and gwps are planned for airports in Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion and Rhodes from August through October. 

In August, to enhance visibility and encourage conversion, the new products are being supported by an integrated campaign in partnership with Avolta. Targeted promotions include free entrance for Club Avolta members to Liknon, the home of Metaxa, located on the island of Samos, and a lucky draw to win a Dinner in the Sky dining experience in Athens.

In addition, travellers who spend over €30 on Metaxa in selected airport stores are eligible to receive a free cocktail at participating bars in the Greek domestic market.

“These new editions enhance our portfolio by catering to a broader range of travelling consumer preferences,” said Hoffmann. “This summer plan is designed to immerse travellers in the world of Metaxa at every step of their journey, and strengthen brand loyalty by influencing purchasing behaviour, both in travel retail and beyond."

TFWA welcomes top brands to Cannes fair

Tax Free World Association (TFWA) is welcoming leading brands such as Hermès, Giorgio Armani, Coach, Zegna, Bally and Ralph Lauren to the 2025 TFWA World Exhibition & Conference.

This year’s fair takes place from 28 September to 2 October 2025 at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes.

Familiar names in luggage and leather goods such as Bally, Bric’s, Tumi, Samsonite and Delsey have also confirmed their participation in this year’s edition.

Powerhouses including Lacoste, Longchamp, Paul & Shark and Victorinox will have a bigger presence this year, while making a welcome return will be Furla, Napapijri and Coach, joining regular exhibitors Lancel, Coccinelle and Le Tanneur. A strong presence is also expected from leading eyewear groups including EssilorLuxottica, Safilo, Thélios, Marcolin and De Rigo.

The 2025 edition will also see a significant upswing in the number of brands showing at the Harbour Village with 30 official boats confirmed, up from 19 last year. For the first time, the Harbour Village will be fully integrated within the exhibition.

Top travel retailers including Avolta, Lagardère, Gebr Heinemann, 3Sixty, Dubai Duty Free and Qatar Duty Free have confirmed large delegations, while major international airports, airlines and cruise operators will also be attending.

Delegates will hear from high-calibre speakers during the TFWA Conference on Monday, 29 September. Two workshops, World in Flux: Travel Retail Amid Today’s Geopolitical Realities and Next Horizon: Charting the Future of Travel Retail, will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Innovation on show

The new Innovation Square will host the two workshops in addition to private evening events. TFWA’s ONE2ONE meeting service will provide opportunities for exhibiting brands, key buyers, airports and trade agents to focus on business. The exhibition halls will be open from Monday afternoon through to Thursday.

Registration remains open until the first week of September.

TFWA President Philippe Margueritte said: “It’s gratifying to see that so many of global travel retail’s most prestigious brands are planning to join us once again in Cannes for what is undoubtedly one of the most important events in our calendar. We look forward to welcoming these high-profile established names plus new game-changing tastemaker brands to TFWA World Exhibition & Conference in September."

MCM plays with the nostalgia trend

As fashion embraces the nostalgia trend, MCM has released two new collaborations exclusively available in Asia.

The first collab is with the popular Thai character Butter Bear. The sweet link-up made its debut in the German luxury brand’s Bangkok pop-up store, bringing playful styles to the heart of the city.

MCM x Butter Bear in Bangkok - Instagram (@mcmworldwide)

Visitors got the chance to shop the exclusive pieces – and meet the icon herself.

The collection is only available in Thailand.

MCM x Crayon Shinchan - Instagram (@mcmworldwide)

MCM x Crayon Shinchan

Meanwhile, over in Japan, a new collaboration with Crayon Shinchan, a Japanese manga and anime series by Yoshito Usui, reimagines MCM’s Visetos monogram with a playful anime twist.

Six exclusive pieces are available, released only in Japan.

MCM continues its style odyssey for Fall

MCM has launched the next chapter of its "From Münich to Mars" journey with a collection for Fall/Winter 2025 crafted for “cyber-galactic nomads on the move”.

Blending retro-futurism with utility, it fuses bold silhouettes, fresh materials and forward-thinking colour with MCM’s signature design language.

“Rooted in craftsmanship and driven by a vision of freedom and motion, it reimagines identity – on Earth or beyond,” the German luxury brand said.

MCM Fall/Winter 2025 collection

The first drop in the collection transforms MCM’s classic Visetos through a futuristic lens, introducing vibrant Blue Visetos and tactile Blue Denim Visetos – colours inspired by the energy of the deep sea and outer space.

Featured across weekenders, multi-backpacks and more, Blue Denim adds rich texture while Blue Visetos brings a bold, electric edge. Together, they seek to strike a balance between utility and statement, creating a modern monochrome look rooted in the MCM aesthetic.

The Cyber-Galactic Nomads campaign, directed by Katharina Korbjuhn and shot by Yis Kid, presents a futuristic vision where style intersects with technology, architecture and AI.

“Blurring the line between real and rendered, it explores how identity, motion and self-expression evolve in an increasingly technological world where individuality is the ultimate statement,” MCM said.

Rémy Cointreau pours fun into cocktail culture

Rémy Cointreau has unveiled its new Cointreau Cocktail Cities Limited Edition Collection – a travel retail-exclusive series that celebrates six iconic cocktails and destinations: Singapore, Melbourne, Sydney, Dubai, Paris and London.

Since its creation in 1885, Cointreau L’Unique Liqueur has been a staple in cocktail culture worldwide, renowned for its vibrant orange flavour. The Cointreau Cocktail Cities Limited Edition Collection offers travellers a chance to discover the art of mixology. 

The collection is available only in selected airports, across the six featured destinations, in partnership with key retailers. These are Sydney (Gebr Heinemann); Melbourne and Singapore (Lotte Duty Free); Paris (Lagardère); Gatwick North and London Heathrow (Avolta); and Dubai (Dubai Duty Free).

Each bottle in the collection is etched with a fun, emblematic feature of the city it represents, intertwined with the signature Cointreau orange. The city-specific designs also showcase a classic paired cocktail: the Sidecar for London; Margarita for Sydney and Melbourne; Singapore Sling for Singapore; Mimosa for Paris; and Cosmopolitan for Dubai.

The Cointreau Cocktail Cities Limited Edition Collection at Sydney Airport

The first high-profile activation took place at Sydney Airport from 8 May to 30 June. The pop-up site featured colourful, eye-catching visuals designed to drive footfall.

Orange merchandising highlighted signature Australian design cues and landmarks, such as surfboards, cute koalas and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, to enhance a sense of place. This space was complemented by attention-grabbing placements around the airport, including retailer screens.

A central tasting bar invited consumers to enjoy a mixed Cointreau cocktail. Gamification, in the form of a digital Marble Run game, introduced a playful element while offering up cocktail suggestions, alongside fun facts about the Cointreau brand and the stories behind each featured cocktail. A travel tote bag gwp could be customised on-site with localised iron-on graphic stickers.

A collectible opportunity

Finally, in partnership with the Mexican chain Hecho en Mexico, which has 20 venues across Sydney and Melbourne, Cointreau offered a bounce-back promotion, highlighted via floor decals and bottle neck hangers. Travellers who purchased a Cointreau Cocktail Cities Sydney Edition were eligible to receive a complimentary Margarita at Hecho en Mexico’s downtown Sydney bar.

“As cocktail culture continues to diversify and thrive worldwide, we are excited to offer travelling consumers another exceptional collectible opportunity, and unlock new opportunities within the liqueur category,” said Rémy Cointreau Marketing Director Global Travel Retail Alice Hoffmann. “By creating fun, engaging experiences that centre a sense of place, we are once again enriching the travel journey and connecting consumers more deeply with the world of premium spirits."