William Grant & Sons fuels excitement in Singapore

William Grant & Sons is returning to the TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition with a brand-new stand design inspired by Glenfiddich’s partnership with the Aston Martin Formula One Team.

In 2024, Glenfiddich announced a long-term partnership that brings together two brands renowned for their heritage, innovation and pursuit of excellence.

Glenfiddich has partnered with the Aston Martin Formula One Team

At the TFWA Asia Pacific exhibition, which runs from May 11 to 15 in Singapore, William Grant & Sons is showcasing recent global travel retail-exclusive innovations. Throughout the show, visitors will be served cocktails featuring the recently launched The Balvenie 12 Year Old Golden Cask and Hendrick’s Sunspell, alongside Silent Pool Gin and Glenfiddich Single Malt.

With Glenfiddich and The Balvenie both experiencing strong growth over the past year, William Grant & Sons’ travel retail division has delivered robust results in Asia Pacific duty-free.

“We continue to observe a shift towards premiumisation, with travellers seeking unique experiences and exclusive whisky expressions in duty-free,” said Rufus Parkinson, Regional Managing Director Global Travel Retail.

“William Grant & Sons is well positioned to meet this growing demand with our leading malts and premium gin portfolio, strengthened by standout activation plans across key locations including the exciting launch of our Glenfiddich partnership with the Aston Martin Formula One Team.”

William Grant & Sons boosts visibility at Mumbai Airport

In other news, William Grant & Sons has launched its first permanent installation in the Arrivals terminal of Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Airport, strengthening its footprint in one of India’s busiest travel hubs.

Located in the newly renovated and expanded Arrivals store, the dedicated space brings to life the malts portfolio, comprising Glenfiddich, The Balvenie and Monkey Shoulder. This launch complements its showcase in the Departures terminal.

William Grant & Sons opens a malt whisky space with Ospree Duty Free at Mumbai Airport Arrivals

Developed in partnership with long-term collaborator Ospree Duty Free, the permanent malt area was officially inaugurated on April 6 in the presence of Rufus Parkinson, Regional Managing Director Global Travel Retail at William Grant & Sons; Damian Cooper, Regional Director Global Travel Retail at William Grant & Sons; Sheetal Kachroo, Buying Head at Ospree Duty Free; and Sumit Chatterjee, Head of Operations at Ospree Duty Free.

“This new malt-dedicated space in Arrivals is another step forward in our partnership with Ospree Duty Free and our commitment to engaging travellers throughout their airport journey,” said Parkinson. “With an established presence in Departures and now a premium, permanent showcase in Arrivals, we are well positioned to offer Indian and international shoppers a seamless and elevated experience."

Prince Albert inaugurates Top Marques show

Top Marques Monaco officially opened its doors to the public on May 8, following an inauguration by H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, who visited the 20th anniversary edition of the exclusive car show at the Grimaldi Forum.

Prince Albert started the day by unveiling several of the 13 world premieres showcased this year – a strong testament to Monaco's status as the international capital of automotive innovation and excellence.

Among the major reveals were two supercars from the Monaco-based automotive influencer and Top Marques ambassador GMK: a customised Lamborghini Aventador SV and an ultra-high-performance Porsche Taycan Turbo GT.

H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco unveils the customised Lamborghini Aventador SV

Prince Albert also lifted the veil on the Monaco edition of the LM1 by Laffite Automobili – a model to which the prince personally contributed, offering his advice on interior design and the selection of exclusive colours.

The Sovereign also admired the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante, presented for the first time by BPM Exclusive, and the Lamborghini Temerario, presented by Groupe Segond Automobiles.

The 2025 edition kicked off in style on May 7 with an Opening Cocktail sponsored by zondacrypto, where over 1,500 guests discovered more than 190 vehicles on display. Guests enjoyed an elegant evening surrounded by the latest supercar models, rare classic cars and motorcycles.

And on May 8, the event’s title sponsor zondacrypto hosted a unique experience – Valtteri Bottas' Crypto Paddock. This event was free and open to the public, offering a fun, beginner-friendly talk about the world of crypto with Formula 1 driver and zondacrypto ambassador Valtteri Bottas.

Top Marques Monaco, which ran from May 8 to 11, also showcased jewellery and watches, as well as exclusive works of arts. Many pieces were available for purchase on-site.

Top Marques Monaco celebrates 20th anniversary

Top Marques Monaco, the prestigious automotive event, will celebrate its 20th anniversary next month with a display of supercars never seen before.

From May 7 to 11, at the Grimaldi Forum in Monte Carlo, this edition will feature cutting-edge supercars and classic vehicles, including a Ferrari 250 Spyder California worth €14 million.

The event will also showcase the Brabus Big Boy, a 12-metre-long rolling apartment worth €1.2 million, and a Junkers A50 Heritage – a 1920s aircraft replica. Both will be available for sale, along with most vehicles at the show.

“This year is very special for us,” said event director Emeric Garcia. “We are celebrating our 20th anniversary – 20 years of supercars in the heart of Monaco, 20 years of world premieres with over 110 launches, 20 years of innovation and new technology, and 20 years under the high patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, whom I would like to thank.

“Top Marques has become a true launching pad, and this year we will present 13 new models, including 10 world premieres and three being showcased in Monaco for the first time. What a great birthday present!”

Among the supercars making their global debut is Aston Martin’s Vanquish Volante, the iconic British brand’s latest roadster, poised to become “the fastest and most powerful in the world”. There will also be world premieres from across Continental Europe, including a fully customised luxury van, a favourite among celebrities.

In addition, social media influencer and Top Marques ambassador GMK will bring his supercars to a dedicated area. His autograph session will be held on 11 May.

Top Marques will also highlight vintage vehicles, with treasures from Boutsen Classic Cars, including the Ferrari 250 Spyder California.

To mark Top Marques’ milestone, the Collection of Cars of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco, in partnership with the National Automobile Museum of Mulhouse, will showcase a unique exhibition highlighting Peugeot. Visitors will discover, for the first time ever, a trio of iconic models, including the Peugeot 2008 from Sébastien Loeb’s 2016 Dakar Rally and a Peugeot F1 co-piloted by Martin Brundle.

Top Marques Monaco 2025 will also showcase luxury watches and jewellery, with brands such as Bemon, C.C. Watches, Hôtel des Ventes de Monte-Carlo, Astrea, Infiniti Jewels, Sandra Bérété and Terzihan.

“I would like to especially thank our sponsors – zondacrypto, Dassault Aviation, Need for Touring, Deco Flamme and A Roca – who have made this exceptional 20th anniversary edition possible,” said Garcia.

MCM creates a pet paradise at Milan Design Week

MCM and Pet Therapy debuted a bold new collaboration at this year's Milan Design Week, unveiling pet-friendly products and an immersive installation that reimagined home design through the lens of play, companionship and creativity.

Founded within Milan design firm Atelier Biagetti and co-created with 11-year-old Altea Biagetti, Pet Therapy is a visionary design brand that transforms everyday spaces into imaginative, interactive environments.

MCM x Pet Therapy installation at Giardino delle Arti in Milan

“Their philosophy of merging function with emotion aligns seamlessly with MCM’s pioneering approach to innovation, where design transcends aesthetics to create experiences that evoke joy, nostalgia and connection. Together, this MCM x Pet Therapy collection redefines modern living into one where pets are not just welcome, but essential to the home,” said MCM.

From April 8 to 12, visitors and their pets were invited to explore the MCM x Pet Therapy installation at Giardino delle Arti in Milan, open daily from 10am to 6pm.

The space was transformed into a surreal playground where poufs shaped like cats and dogs invited interaction, and playful furniture blurred the boundaries between function and fantasy. Set against a backdrop of glowing palm tree lights and vibrant textures, the installation brought to life the idea of a "home without limits", designed for both humans and their furry companions.

The event launched with an intimate breakfast for the press, followed by a lively high tea for creatives, designers, creators and MCM friends. Guests wandered through the whimsical landscape, discovering oversized cat sculptures, soft poufs, miniature wooden houses and a pet bar. They also received complimentary treats for both themselves and their pets.

The night began with a cocktail party hosting more than 700 guests. “The atmosphere buzzed with conversation, music and a shared appreciation for design that sparks joy, connection and a sense of wonder,” enthused MCM.

A dog sits on an MCM x Pet Therapy pouf

During the installation, visitors were invited to experience daily activation events such as pet Pilates, dog training sessions, pet portraits and much more.

During Design Week, limited quantities of the exclusive poufs were available for purchase at the event and made-to-order online. All pieces in the collection were designed by Altea Biagetti with Atelier Biagetti.

Additionally, visitors could explore and shop MCM best-sellers in Cognac Visetos and the newly launched fragrance collection.

For the event, MCM also created the MCM x Pet Therapy online game, where players could virtually explore the Giardino delle Arti and win a chance to receive a special MCM prize.

William Grant & Sons cruises into the future in Miami

Independent family-owned UK distiller William Grant & Sons has showcased its brand portfolio at the F&B@Sea event, organised by Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami on April 9 and 10.

The event focused on cruise food and beverages innovation and featured major cruise industry stakeholders, coming together in a conference and exhibition format.

On an eye-catching, new-look stand, the William Grant & Sons team displayed its brand portfolio which includes Hendrick’s Gin and Monkey Shoulder Whisky, both regarded as key players in the global cruise channel.

Alongside Hendrick’s Gin Original, Hendrick’s Gin offers two distinctive expressions, Amazonia and Sunspell, both crafted under the brand's Cabinet of Curiosities, exclusive to the travel retail and cruise market.

Hendrick's Sunspell Gin

Hendrick’s Sunspell made its debut late last year, inspired by the vibrant colours of the Scottish sunset. It offers bursts of citrus layered over the Hendrick's signature cucumber and rose infusion, with a refreshing and spicy finish.

The Glenfiddich Perpetual Collection was also highlighted, along with a new release from The Balvenie and ultra-premium UK gin brand Silent Pool.

The Balvenie’s Cask Finishes Range welcomed its latest travel retail exclusive addition The Balvenie 12 Year Old Golden Cask earlier this year. The single malt undergoes 12 years of maturation in traditional ex-bourbon whisky casks, developing notes of warm, smooth honey, and is finished in rum-seasoned casks, adding bold layers of candied fruit and vanilla.

Sampling and tasting opportunities were offered on the stand, along with a selection of crafted cocktails.

The William Grant & Sons team was led by Regional Manager Global Travel Retail Holly Stevenson, who said: “This exciting F&B@Sea event is fast becoming a must for brands and other stakeholders in the cruise industry. William Grant & Sons is fortunate to have outstanding brands which are tailor-made to meet the needs of today’s cruise passengers and travelling consumers."

Bruichladdich boosted by Organic Barley 16yo whisky

Rémy Cointreau-owned Bruichladdich Distillery Company has unveiled a new global travel retail exclusive single malt whisky: Bruichladdich Organic Barley 16 Aged Years.

Following the success of last year’s Not Your Classic Whisky activation programme for The Bruichladdich Twenty One and The Classic Laddie Sherry Cask Edition, the latest expression from the progressive Islay-based distillery made its channel debut last month in Singapore Changi Airport, in partnership with Lotte Duty Free Singapore, as part of a two-month exclusive listing period.

Bruichladdich Organic Barley 16 Aged Years

The Singapore Changi debut will be followed by a roll-out to key airports, supported by an ambitious promotional programme that will also highlight the wider Bruichladdich portfolio.

Incorporating Bruichladdich’s Not Your Classic campaign concept and visuals, the Changi activation features colourful shades of bright aqua and orange – plus a life-size model of a sheep, to evoke Bruichladdich’s Islay island heritage.

A tasting bar pop-up invites travellers to sample the Bruichladdich portfolio of single malt Scotch whiskies. They include the Classic Laddie Sherry Cask Edition, 21 Aged Years, and the Micro Provenance Cask (which is exclusive to Singapore Changi Airport) as well as the brand’s signature peated range, such as Port Charlotte and Octomore.

Travellers can also play a fun, interactive Not Your Classic Jumping Game, in which they use their voices (rather than traditional arcade game controls) to direct a series of jumping sheep – and learn about the key whisky features in the process.

“We are delighted to partner with Rémy Cointreau to introduce the Bruichladdich Organic Barley 16 Aged Years as a Changi 1st exclusive,” said Lotte Duty Free Singapore Managing Director Jeff Jeong Soongyu. “This world-first launch brings travellers a whisky with true character. Bruichladdich’s focus on provenance and quality speaks to today’s discerning consumers, and we’re pleased that Lotte Duty Free Singapore is the first to offer this exceptional release.”

Fully traceable from farm to glass

The 16yo, unpeated single malt whisky is distilled using 100% organically grown malting barley in the B Corp-certified distillery. Cultivated and harvested at Mid Coul Farm, Inverness, Scotland, the barley is grown without the use of artificial fertilisers or pesticides, reducing agrochemical inputs and supporting healthy soils. 

Fully traceable from farm to glass, the Organic Barley 16 Aged Years has spent its entire maturation life on Islay. 100% bourbon cask matured, the ex-American oak adds smooth vanilla cream and subtle wood spices to the final single malt whisky, complementing the clean, cereal-forward spirit.

Beyond the malting barley alone, every aspect of Bruichladdich Organic Barley 16 Aged Years adheres to organic certification. Each step of the process is inspected and certified by the Biodynamic Association.

Bottled at 50%abv, Bruichladdich Organic Barley 16 Aged Years is described as a light and vibrant single malt whisky. A medley of tropical fruits open on the nose, with pineapple, peach and apricot jam. The ex-American oak adds to the smooth and rounded texture on the palate, with the organic barley coming to the fore with notes of malt sugar, warm straw and sweet toffee popcorn.

“I’m very proud of this exciting new addition to our travel retail exclusive portfolio,” commented Rémy Cointreau CEO Global Travel Retail Fida Bou Chabke. “Sustainably farmed, using no artificial fertilisers, agrochemicals or pesticides, Bruichladdich Organic Barley 16 Aged Years showcases the brand’s commitment to terroir and barley exploration. I’m delighted to once again be partnering with Lotte Duty Free Singapore and Singapore Changi to offer our travelling consumers the first opportunity to experience this very special release.

“Bruichladdich Organic Barley 16 Aged Years is an exceptional single malt that embodies the essence of Islay, and the distillery’s dedication to producing spirits that are pure, authentic, and respectful of the land they are born from. We know that travellers are increasingly seeking out brands that offer creativity, craftsmanship and meaningful consumption moments. This new global travel retail-exclusive expression perfectly captures Bruichladdich’s unwavering dedication to transparency, traceability and uncompromising quality."

Furry friends inspire new MCM fragrances

MCM has introduced the MCM Fragrance Collection – a whimsical array of scents inspired by the iconic animal characters of the Munich brand.

The new collection, manufactured in Italy by Inter Parfums, “delivers a unique olfactory experience, capturing the essence of you through the guise of your favourite furry companions”, the company said.

MCM Fragrance Collection - Jolly Rabbit 100ml Eau de Parfum

The fragrances were created to embody the Maverick mindset, with each scent tailored for distinct attitudes, such as bravery, boldness, mischievousness and joyfulness.

The olfactory experiences comprise the woody florals of Mighty Bear, the citrus scents of Jolly Rabbit, the bergamot notes of Charming Pup and the spicy nuttiness of the Darling Doxie dog character.

The fragrances ($150 for 100ml Eau de Parfum) come in logo-engraved glass bottles, with the corresponding ornamental figure on top.

In separate news, MCM has created a digital store in the Caliverse, a community-driven metaverse platform.

MCM Virtual Haus in the Caliverse

Unveiled at the CES 2025 show in Las Vegas, the MCM Virtual Haus immersive space lets you create and customise your own avatar, style yourself with signature MCM pieces, and get online MCM purchases delivered straight to your door.

The Caliverse is a next-generation metaverse platform based in Seoul, South Korea, combining gaming, social and shopping elements with high-quality hyper-real graphics.