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.

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."

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."

Monkey Shoulder keeps on trucking in Mumbai

Monkey Shoulder, the disruptive whisky brand from William Grant & Sons, has debuted its Monkey Mixer Truck at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai.

Launched in the departures area on 26 May 2025 for a three-month period, the showstopping pop-up was developed in collaboration with Ospree Duty Free.

Monkey Shoulder's Monkey Mixer Truck at Mumbai Airport

The truck, with its barrel evoking a giant cocktail shaker on wheels, doubles as a DJ platform, complete with a dynamic onboard sound system. Alongside the striking truck installation, Monkey Shoulder brand ambassadors invite visitors to discover why Monkey Shoulder is the perfect spirit for mixing.

Bringing together technology and mixology, an interactive digital cocktail recipe selector helps travellers to explore new drinks to try at home. Meanwhile, a 3D brand video plays on a giant curved screen. As a memorable takeaway, shoppers who purchase two bottles receive a set of six Monkey Shoulder vinyl coasters.

To celebrate the launch, Ospree Duty Free and Monkey Shoulder partnered to create a one-of-a-kind takeover event, featuring a live DJ spinning a Monkey Shoulder playlist to bring festive vibes to the terminal, while shoppers were gifted with branded caps and coasters. Those who purchased a twin pack were treated to a ride to their gate in branded Monkey Shoulder golf carts.

“This is the first time we’re bringing the Monkey Shoulder Mixer Truck to an airport, and it perfectly showcases our commitment to delivering outstanding experiences that drive footfall and shopper engagement,” enthused Rufus Parkinson, Regional Managing Director – Global Travel Retail at William Grant & Sons.

“This milestone was made possible through our trusted collaboration with Ospree Duty Free, and we’re thrilled to bring this unique activation to Mumbai.”

An Ospree Duty Free spokesperson said: “This collaboration with Monkey Shoulder is truly one-of-a-kind, and we’re proud to bring something so fresh and engaging. The DJ set-up, the larger-than-life truck and the whole vibe creates a fun, experiential moment for travellers. At Ospree Duty Free, we’re always looking to create new ways for travellers to pause, engage and take back a unique memory, and this one checks all the boxes."

Bowmore and Aston Martin unveil 'spun gold' whisky

Bowmore Scotch whisky and Aston Martin have introduced the second, and final, release in their groundbreaking ARC Series.

The striking Bowmore ARC-54 creation unites a rare 54yo whisky from Bowmore distillery with a distinctive hand-blown decanter inspired by the cutting-edge design of the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar.

Distilled in November 1968, this rare whisky is the culmination of 54 years of maturation, latterly spent in a second-fill European oak sherry butt and third-fill American oak hogshead. Inspired by the Golden Ratio, the 61.8% European oak aged spirit and 38.2% American oak aged spirit are finally unified for 15 months. The liquid looks like "spun gold", according to the tasting notes.

Bowmore ARC-54

Each hand-blown decanter takes inspiration from the F1-inspired aerodynamic exterior of the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar, including the full-length Venturi tunnels that contribute to around 1,100 kilograms of downforce, and the natural fluid forms of the terroir of Islay in Scotland.

Inspired by the design direction and principles of an Aston Martin, Bowmore ARC-54 is sculpted with precision, creating a striking sense of flow in its lines and styling. The shape is defined by these fluid aerodynamics and showcases the shared philosophy through the diffuser-inspired glass sculpture to enhance the flowing reflections of the whisky.

As befits its ultra-exclusive positioning, only 130 decanters of Bowmore ARC-54 (44.3%abv) are available globally. Underlining the importance of the channel to the Suntory Global Spirits portfolio, an allocation of 20 has been set aside for selected key travel retail partners, starting with Dubai Duty Free in May.

The past year has marked a milestone for Bowmore in global travel retail, underpinned by the reveal of a new brand world and visual identity. This transformational style was introduced through the Bowmore Appellations Collection travel retail exclusive whisky range, which made its debut in October 2024.

A pinnacle of craftsmanship

“Bowmore ARC-54 represents a pinnacle of craftsmanship, and we are thrilled to present this extraordinary release to discerning travellers in select locations through our valued travel retail partners,” said Nandini Valio, Suntory Global Spirits Senior Marketing Director for Global Travel Retail.

“It is absolutely fitting that Bowmore ARC-54 will be highlighted in the travel retail channel, which is a vital global stage for showcasing Bowmore’s prestige portfolio. The Bowmore Appellations Collection was the first chapter in a new story of elevation and premiumisation for the brand. The unveiling of ARC-54 builds on that momentum and further extends our legacy within the world of rare and remarkable whiskies.”

Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer of Aston Martin, enthused: “Bowmore ARC-54 continues the cutting-edge, technology-based collaboration between two exceptional brands that are steeped in heritage and tradition. It embodies the innovative thinking that we apply to Valkyrie and Valhalla, our mid-engined sports cars. A truly creative collaboration."

The Balvenie celebrates Golden moments

The newest addition to The Balvenie’s celebrated Cask Finishes Range, The Balvenie 12-Year-Old Golden Cask whisky, is taking centre stage in a series of high-profile activations for 2025 in key locations.

The campaign launched in Seoul Incheon, Hong Kong, Taipei Taoyuan, London Heathrow, Shanghai Pudong, Beijing Capital, Istanbul, Mumbai, Delhi and Dubai airports, and will be rolled out in Singapore Changi, London Gatwick, Paris Charles de Gaulle and Los Angeles airports.

The Balvenie 12-Year-Old Golden Cask activation at Singapore Changi Airport

Created to highlight the brand’s expertise, each location-tailored experience invites adult travellers to embark on an immersive sensory journey that explores The Balvenie distillery’s signature approach to crafted whisky making with a curated selection of The Balvenie’s portfolio, led by the Cask Finishes range.

A focal point of the campaign was a pop-up designed in collaboration with Lotte Duty Free, live at Singapore Changi Airport earlier this year, located in the prime T3 Departure transit area. The circular design harnessed The Balvenie’s signature honey-toned accents and iconic arches, subtly nodding to the brand heritage. Inside the pop-up, dedicated displays featured the available expressions, with a prominent wall bay position for The Balvenie 12-Year-Old Golden Cask (43%abv).

Other key elements of the experience included an immersive Cask Finishes Flavour Discovery and Tasting area, where visitors could explore how cask finishing influences whisky flavour. Through an interactive deconstruction, this sensorial section demonstrated how different casks shape the whisky’s character. The tasting area, guided by an expert brand ambassador, was enhanced by a chocolate pairing to create a new depth of flavours and textures.

The Door to Distillery touchpoint was a digital installation acting as a virtual gateway to Scotland. This immersive display transported visitors to the distillery, offering an intimate look at the brand’s makers, bringing to life the dedication, artistry and time-honoured techniques that define The Balvenie.

To complete the shopping experience, a central Art of Gifting podium allowed passengers to customise their purchases with personalised Changi-exclusive key chains and luggage tags.

“We are excited to partner with our long-term customers on this new series of activations, presenting The Balvenie’s Cask Finishes range and the newest 12yo addition to travellers globally in an interactive and personalised way,” said Gwilym Cooke, Head of Marketing Global Travel Retail at William Grant & Sons.

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."

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."

Suntory to sponsor APTRA India conference

Suntory has announced its commitment as a Gold Partner sponsor for the 2025 APTRA India Conference, scheduled to take place in Mumbai from 7 to 9 April, following its sponsorship of the inaugural event, held in Delhi last March.

Suntory’s renewed sponsorship underscores the strategic importance of the Asia Pacific region, the Indian traveller, and this market’s potential for growth.

Liquor is a dominant category in this region, and is poised to maintain its robust growth trajectory. Thanks to its highly sought-after spirits portfolio, Suntory Global Spirits is strategically positioned to leverage these emerging opportunities.

Within the Indian travel retail channel, the spirits category is mainly characterised by Scotch whiskies, a sector where Suntory benefits from multiple renowned brands that resonate with Indian consumers. Additionally, the rapidly rising demand for Japanese whisky presents a significant opportunity for Suntory’s premium Japanese offerings, including Toki, which has been a key growth driver in 2024.

Investing in the market

“We are delighted to once again sponsor APTRA’s India Conference,” said Suntory Global Spirits Managing Director Global Travel Retail Ashish Gandham. “India represents a pivotal opportunity for our travel retail business, and we are investing in the market to accelerate growth and build on the solid foundations we have already established.

“Through strategic partnerships with our customers and a focus on immersive branding touchpoints at airports, Suntory aims to deliver premium products and experiences tailored to the diverse needs of Indian consumers. The increasing sophistication of travelling shoppers, coupled with the ongoing expansion of the premium spirits category, positions India as a key market for our long-term growth."

Rémy Cointreau’s Westland whiskey sets sail

Rémy Cointreau has introduced its Westland American Single Malt Whiskey to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, in partnership with operator Avolta.

As the home of Westland Distillery, the Seattle opening marks a milestone for Westland in the travel retail channel, and highlights both Rémy Cointreau’s ambitions for the brand in the region.

Westland American Single Malt Whiskey

Westland’s award-winning whiskies are distilled in Seattle’s SoDo neighbourhood, where visitors to the distillery can enjoy tastings and tours. As a pioneer in the American Single Malt Whiskey movement, Westland Distillery welcomes the official recognition – announced last year – of American Single Malt Whiskey as a designated category by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau. This landmark decision represents a pivotal moment for the growing segment, solidifying its place within the world of whiskey, and establishing a unique identity for American Single Malt Whiskey on the global stage.

Westland American Single Malt Whiskey made its global travel retail debut last year with International Shoppes at New York JFK Terminal 1 and Houston George Bush Intercontinental Terminal D, followed by openings at JFK T4 and San Francisco and Los Angeles Tom Bradley International Terminal, in partnership with DFS Group.

A new partnership with Holland America

In an exciting new development, Westland has partnered with Holland America Line to secure its debut cruise listing, starting with the company’s Alaskan itinerary. In 2024, Westland Distillery was proud to obtain B Corp Certification, which demands adhering to the highest levels of social and environmental performance, public transparency and accounting.

The brand’s sustainable practices were a key factor in its selection by Holland America, which also strives to offer passengers high-quality, locally produced spirits.

A unique Westland Single Cask bottling will be available to purchase on the cruise company’s Alaskan routes, alongside Westland Flagship. A second, exclusive single cask whiskey will be available on all of Holland America’s Caribbean ships. Furthermore, to celebrate this new partnership, renowned bartender Sam Ross – inventor of the famous Penicillin cocktail – has updated his signature whisky sour recipe to include Westland whiskey. The PNW Penicillin will be available for passengers onboard.

Elsewhere in US travel retail, the product focus centres on Westland Flagship, a DFS-exclusive Single Cask and Colere 4, in line with the brand’s vision to delight travellers as they explore new possibilities within the malt whiskey category.

Westland Distillery Managing Director Jason Moore said: “Westland is thrilled to launch its American Single Malt in Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and onboard Holland America, allowing more people globally to savour the iconic whiskey. We are excited to embark on this journey of delivering exceptional spirits to more discerning customers worldwide, setting a new standard for the duty-free shopping experience.”

Whyte & Mackay to sponsor APTRA conference in India

Whyte & Mackay is to sponsor the 2025 APTRA India Conference, set to take place in Mumbai on 7-9 April, which will bring together stakeholders in the travel retail industry to explore the potential of the Indian market.

As a Gold Sponsor, Whyte & Mackay is committed to progressing the conversation around the Indian modern luxury consumer.

Whyte & Mackay's portfolio includes The Dalmore Scotch whisky

Whyte & Mackay Regional Director Global Travel Retail Clarisse Daniels will once again take to the conference stage to share her insights. Last year at the inaugural event, Daniels participated in an insightful panel discussion that highlighted Indian consumers’ taste for single malt – and the significant growth potential in travel retail for both this demographic and this category. This year Daniels will address the luxury experience expectations of Indian modern luxury consumers, in order to drive footfall and conversion.

“I am excited to be partnering with APTRA once again, and look forward to engaging with industry partners to share our insights, learnings and ideas on how we can drive headline growth together in the region,” said Daniels. “Whyte & Mackay continues to experience significant and category-leading growth in the Middle East and India, which is underpinned by Indian consumers seeking high-quality and great-tasting single malts.”

She added: “However, we know that what brought us this far won’t take us to the next level. We are therefore continuing to invest in understanding the consumer journey, building shopper and category insights, and obtaining real clarity about how best to optimise them. We recognise that our best route to growth is to grow the whole category, and we want to share our thoughts on the high value spirit opportunity – and the consumers and shoppers it serves.”

Whyte & Mackay’s brand portfolio includes award-winning brands such as The Dalmore, the fastest-growing luxury malt brand (according to IWSR 2019-2023 sales by volume), Jura, Fettercairn and Tamnavulin.

Daniels concluded: “Last year’s inaugural APTRA India Conference was a true eye-opener, revealing the immense potential for growth this region holds. The intimate setting allowed for meaningful discussions with customers and suppliers. I look forward to strengthening those connections as we work together to seize the great opportunities ahead of us all."

Frankfurt Airport welcomes Suntory shop-in-shop

Suntory Global Spirits has opened a new shop-in-shop showcasing its premium Japanese spirits at Frankfurt Airport Terminal 1’s B-West store.

The liquor group’s first House of Suntory shop-in-shop in Europe is operated by Frankfurt Airport Retail, a joint venture between Fraport Group and Gebr Heinemann. The store reopened last year as a World of Fine Taste experience.

To celebrate the opening, on 30 and 31 January, specialist brand ambassadors were on hand to help travellers discover The House of Suntory portfolio through tastings, and learn more about Suntory’s whisky heritage.

Suntory's shop-in-shop at Frankfurt Airport Terminal 1

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony was conducted by Gebr Heinemann Head of Buying Spirits Manuel Schilling, Frankfurt Airport Managing Director Gordana Schiel and Suntory Global Spirits General Manager Global Travel Retail Gareth Jones.

The boutique incorporates The House of Suntory’s signature merchandising design features, inspired by harmony with Japanese nature and elevated by Japanese craftsmanship (Monozukuri).

Lightboxes and a screen displaying eye-catching images of Japan’s beautiful landscape illustrate Suntory’s harmonious balance with Japanese nature and traditions.

The space features Suntory’s luxury Hibiki, Yamazaki and Hakushu whiskies. Highlights include rare exclusives such as Hibiki 40 Year Old – a blend of Japanese whiskies from Suntory’s globally acclaimed distilleries Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita – each matured for over 40 years. Only 400 bottles of the ultra-luxury Hibiki 40 Year Old have been released globally.

The offer will include other sought-after releases such as the travel retail exclusive Kogei Collection, and the limited-edition Tsukuriwake Series. Premium offerings from the brand’s Toki and Chita whiskies are spotlighted through a Japanese garden-themed merchandising pillar, alongside other Japanese spirit categories, notably Roku Gin and Haku Vodka.

“The opening of this new shop-in-shop is a testament to our strong collaboration and long-term partnership with Gebr Heinemann,” noted Gareth Jones, General Manager Global Travel Retail Suntory Global Spirits. “The space has been curated for Frankfurt Airport and offers travellers a unique sense of luxury, storytelling and Japanese culture.”

“Step into our newly opened shop-in-shop boutique and embark on a journey of inspiration,” commented Gebr Heinemann Head of Buying Spirits Manuel Schilling. “Our partnership with Suntory Global Spirits brings [travellers] an unparalleled experience that combines luxury with the essence of Japanese craftsmanship.”

“We are excited to delight our customers with the unique combination of various flavours and aromas from the House of Suntory,” added Frankfurt Airport Director Gordana Shiel. “With authentic Japanese spirits, we bring a piece of Japanese nature into the bustling environment of the airport, inviting our customers to immerse themselves, indulge their senses, and take their taste buds on a special journey.”

Bowmore celebrates first travel retail boutique

Suntory has opened the first boutique for its single malt whisky brand Bowmore in the travel retail channel, in partnership with global operator Avolta.

The 100sq m space is located in the main T5 Departures area at Heathrow Airport Terminal 5. The pop-up will be present until the end of January 2025.

The boutique showcases the new, exclusive Bowmore Appellations Collection, which made its European travel retail debut in October at Heathrow Airport, in partnership with Avolta. These four whiskies mark an innovative collaboration with some of the world’s finest wine-producing regions. From the vineyards and wineries of Burgundy and Bordeaux to the exclusive port houses of the Douro Valley, these single malts combine influences from Bowmore’s Islay home with the charm of renowned European terroirs.

Bowmore's first travel retail store at London Heathrow Airport Terminal 5

The retail space also spotlights a selection of rare, vintage and limited-edition expressions. They include Bowmore 30 Year Old, Bowmore Timeless 33 Year Old, Bowmore Vaults 1971, and the Bowmore Frank Quitely 23 Year Old, 24 Year Old and 34 Year Old.

The boutique design reflects the new Bowmore visual world, incorporating the fluidity and dominant use of the colour black showcased on the new whisky packaging. Key features include distinctive transparent panel detailing and oak textured merchandising units.

A selection of interactive elements allow travellers to connect with the Bowmore brand on a deeper level. Visitors are invited to taste the new Bowmore Appellations 14 Year Old and 16 Year Old whiskies. They can also learn about and sample Bowmore's permanent collection, and explore the rare and vintage expressions.

“The opening of our first-ever Bowmore boutique in global travel retail, at Heathrow’s Terminal 5, marks another significant milestone for the brand, as we strive to captivate the travelling consumer by offering multi-dimensional and immersive experiences to stimulate the senses,” noted Suntory Global Spirits Managing Director Global Travel Retail, Ashish Gandham. “It also underscores our commitment to travel retail, which remains a key brand-building channel for our portfolio.

“This new retail concept has been created to offer travel retail shoppers a deeper, richer experience, and aligns with our vision of positioning Bowmore as the world's most desirable single malt whisky. We are thrilled to partner with Avolta to open this landmark boutique, and further elevate our global travel retail offering through innovative and experiential best-in-class brand building.”

David de Miguel, Global Head of Liquor at Avolta, commented: “We are constantly seeking new and exclusive products to offer to our customers, whilst making the retail experience as immersive and engaging as possible. We are delighted to have been able to work in close partnership with the team at Bowmore, to help launch this first Bowmore boutique in travel retail. The multi-sensory experience it delivers, alongside the exceptional range of whiskies, will definitely delight and surprise travellers.”

Fraser Brown, Retail Director at Heathrow, noted: “We’re thrilled to welcome the first-ever Bowmore boutique to Terminal 5, offering our passengers a unique and immersive experience from one of the world’s leading whisky brands. Heathrow has recently been voted the Best Airport for Shopping, and this Trinity partnership between Heathrow, Avolta and Suntory Global Spirits highlights Heathrow’s commitment to providing exciting travel retail experiences that engage and inspire our global travellers."

Suntory unveils experiential shop-in-shop in Changi T4

Suntory has partnered with Changi Airport Group and Lotte Duty Free Singapore to open a new experiential shop-in-shop boutique at Singapore Changi Airport T4.

The 30 sq m store opening follows Suntory’s first ever shop-in-shop boutique in the travel retail channel, which made its debut earlier this year in Lotte Duty Free’s refurbished central duplex store in Changi T3.

Suntory's shop-in-shop at Singapore Changi T4

Inspired by the beauty of Japan’s natural world and elevated by Japanese craftsmanship, the new shop-in-shop invites travellers on an experiential sensory journey, seeking to foster a deep and lasting connection with the brand.

It showcases the full range of exceptional whiskies from Yamazaki, Hakushu and Hibiki, complemented by a strong focus on other Suntory craft spirits such as AO, Toki, Roku Gin and Haku Vodka.

Embodying Suntory’s signature aesthetic, the Changi boutique incorporates dynamic designs, including large display screens to attract footfall from afar. These screens project different seasons within nature, to evoke the changing natural environment that surrounds the birthplace of different Suntory spirits.

Immersive branded discovery stations featuring interactive screens invite travellers to embark on a journey of digital discovery, enhanced by a mobile tasting table where visitors can sample a selection of craft spirits.

“Travel retail is a vital brand-building channel for the group,” noted Suntory Global Spirits Managing Director Global Travel Retail Ashish Gandham. “I am delighted to further expand our presence at such a key airport location, in partnership with Changi Airport Group and Lotte Duty Free.”

Gandham continued: “This beautiful boutique is another perfect showcase for The House of Suntory’s exceptional portfolio of spirits, and exemplifies our commitment to delivering high quality innovation and rich experiences for our customers.”

Lotte Duty Free Singapore Managing Director Jeff Jeong Soongyu commented: “The high-end Japanese whisky category continues to perform positively, and this new shop-in-shop boutique will allow Lotte to further strengthen its offering and leverage demand.

“We understand that our discerning customers seek innovation and memorable experiences when they travel. This specialised boutique diversifies Lotte’s product selection and enhances the premium shopping journey for travellers."

Suntory unveils its oldest blended whisky

Suntory has announced the release of Hibiki 40 Year Old, seeking to underline the brand’s role as a leading pioneer of Japanese whisky.

Hibiki 40 Year Old is an exclusive liquid with a blend of high-quality Japanese whiskies from Suntory’s distilleries – Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita – each matured for over 40 years.

Only 400 bottles of the ultra-luxury Hibiki 40 Year Old will be released globally across selected markets and channels.

Hibiki 40 Year Old blended whisky

This release, which is the oldest blended whisky in brand history, aims to strengthen Suntory's position at the forefront of Japanese spirits.

An allocation has been set aside for the global travel retail channel. These bottles have been earmarked for key global airport locations: Sydney, Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, Hainan, Taipei, Singapore, Dubai, Qatar, Istanbul, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Paris, London, Madrid, New York and Los Angeles.

Suntory's Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo crafted Hibiki 40 Year Old from a variety of Suntory's ultra-high-aged whiskies produced by earlier generations. The “decadent and truly innovative” result has layers of unprecedented aroma and mellowness, the company said.

On the nose, it reveals aromas of Japanese loquat, dry lemon peel and clove. It unveils flavours of pure acacia honey and dry fig on the palate, culminating in an aromatic aftertaste.

Shinji Fukuyo said that behind the elegance and bloom that is typical of Hibiki, there is a sense of subduedness, like that of an old temple, and a wabi-sabi patina due to the long ageing process.

He explained: “I would like people to enjoy the pure aroma that has been sharpened over the years; the tranquillity of old temples and storehouses and the nostalgic warm feeling that accompanies them.”

"The pinnacle of Japanese luxury and craftsmanship"

Hibiki 40 Year Old demonstrates the next chapter for Hibiki, where its signature ‘Creating Harmony’ not only resonates with the complexity of Mizunara Japanese oak and the subtle sweetness of Spanish oak, but is further elevated with the smoothness of caramelised cacao from the aged American oak.

To honour Japanese craftsmanship, Suntory has partnered with the renowned Japanese washi artist Eriko Horiki to handcraft the washi label on the presentation box.

The bottle is fashioned from crystal glass, boasting 30 facets crafted by a renowned glassware maker known as a purveyor to the Japanese imperial family. It is decorated with traditional Japanese maki-e, mother-of-pearl inlay and gold lacquer to pay homage to its heritage and tradition. This design seeks to amplify the golden hue of the liquid.

The wooden box is made of 12 kinds of Japanese wood such as pine and zelkova, and has 12 faces, representing the 12 months of the year. Around the box, flowers and grasses of the four seasons of Japan are depicted in maki-e lacquer, representing the changing seasons and linking the past and future through Hibiki.

“This is a landmark release from The House of Suntory, so I am delighted that we can offer it to our key global travel retail partners,” said Suntory Global Spirits Managing Director Global Travel Retail Ashish Gandham. “Hibiki was introduced in 1989 to commemorate Suntory’s 90th anniversary, and it embodies the pinnacle of Japanese luxury and craftsmanship.”

He continued: “We have huge ambitions for this brand, as we continue to develop and enhance our premium whisky portfolio. The word Hibiki means resonance in Japanese, and I am confident that Hibiki 40 Year Old will absolutely resonate with travelling connoisseurs seeking to experience a truly exceptional whisky."

Bowmore bets on a brand transformation

Suntory Global Spirits-owned single malt Scotch whisky brand Bowmore is introducing two new boutique collections in a fresh brand livery.

Bowmore Appellations is a travel retail exclusive series, a collaboration with some of the world’s finest wine-producing regions, from the vineyards and wineries of Burgundy and Bordeaux to the exclusive port houses of the Douro Valley.

Bowmore 22yo Sauternes Cask Finish whisky

The collection comprises: Bowmore 14yo, matured in American oak ex-Bourbon casks and finished in Bordeaux barriques; Bowmore 16yo, matured in American oak ex-Bourbon casks and European oak sherry casks, and finished in ruby port casks from the Douro Valley; Bowmore 19yo, matured in American oak ex-Bourbon casks and finished in Pinot Noir casks from Burgundy; and Bowmore 22yo, matured in American oak ex-Bourbon casks and finished in Sauternes casks.

Bowmore Appellations Collection will be available in key travel retail hubs, beginning with exclusive launches at London Heathrow and Singapore Changi airports, from October 2024.

Meanwhile, the Bowmore Sherry Oak Collection showcases four whiskies: 12yo, 15yo, 18yo and 21yo. Bowmore Sherry Oak range will begin to roll out to key global cities including London, Paris, Toronto and Munich from September 2024, via domestic whisky specialists and luxury retailers.

The permanent portfolio of Bowmore whiskies will take on the new livery and start to make itself known from early 2025, Suntory said.

The fresh design aims to express the brand’s spirit story in a clear and authentic way. Inspired by the expressive and layered nature of Bowmore’s character, the morphic linework design reflects this. The dominant use of the colour black, part of the brand livery for decades, pays homage to one of the most iconic whiskies – Black Bowmore, distilled in 1964.

Deeper, richer experiences

Bowmore Marketing Director Kirsteen Beeston said: “We have a duty of care as custodians of this incredible distillery to best reflect and capture the true essence of Bowmore, out of both respect to all that has been achieved so far but equally out of a desire to ensure we honour the spirit as we know it today. As such, we made the decision to evolve the world which surrounds the brand, across brand creative, experience and innovation.

“This is exemplified by the upcoming launch of two new whisky ranges: Sherry Oak Cask and Bowmore Appellations which, along with the existing range of Bowmore whiskies, will be offered to our customers and consumers in a new brand livery. As we look to the future, we aim to redefine what it means to enjoy a glass of Bowmore, transforming each moment into a captivating experience.”

Suntory Global Spirits Brand Marketing Director Global Travel Retail Manuel Gonzalez noted: “Travel retail is a key showroom for our iconic global brands, and I am very proud that we are able to offer our retail partners such an exceptional new channel-exclusive collection. Bowmore Appellations is a very special series, a showcase for the multi-dimensional Bowmore spirit, and the different terroirs celebrated through these expressions.”

He added: “We know that our travelling consumers expect high-quality product innovation and authenticity, enhanced with deeper, richer experiences. This new collection embodies our commitment to deliver a best-in-class premium brand portfolio, to truly elevate the airport shopping experience, and to help us achieve our ambition to become the world’s most admired premium spirits company."

The Dalmore unveils an artistic exclusive for travellers

The Dalmore Portfolio Series has introduced three limited-edition single malt whiskies which make their worldwide debut exclusively with travel retailer Avolta, retailing at between £500 and £1,000 per bottle. 

The series debuts at World Duty Free stores at London Heathrow Airport in September, before launching at other international hub airports in October.

The Dalmore Portfolio Series 2024 release

The trio of bottlings is dubbed “a toast to creative talent” and celebrates a young artist. In this first year, Scottish artist Fraser Gray of Edinburgh has created a striking interpretation of The Dalmore Distillery, operated by Whyte & Mackay.

The Dalmore Portfolio Series is the latest initiative under the creative partnership between The Dalmore and Scottish design institution V&A Dundee.

For The Portfolio Series, V&A Dundee paired The Dalmore with artists, the first of whom is Fraser Gray, who grew up in the area. The Portfolio Series seeks to shine a light on contemporary art and design talent through creative works evoking what makes The Dalmore special.

Fraser Gray’s Portfolio Series will also be available to purchase in Scotland, exclusively at V&A Dundee.

The 2024 Portfolio Series comprises:

The Dalmore Portfolio Series No.1 (£500/$635): Bottled at 46.8%abv, this Dalmore expression is limited to 5,000 bottles, aged in Bordeaux wine casks.

The Dalmore Portfolio Series No.2 (£750/$950): Bottled at 46.0%abv, this Dalmore expression is limited to 2,000 bottles. The whisky is finished in selected casks from the Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region.

The Dalmore Portfolio Series No.3 (£1,000/$1,250): Bottled at 49.7%abv, this Dalmore expression is limited to 1,000 bottles. "An iconic vineyard, classified as Premier Grand Cru, granted The Dalmore access to finish this whisky, imparting exceptional character," the company said.

Heathrow Airport Retail Director Fraser Brown said of the new release: “As the UK’s international gateway, Heathrow has a unique platform on which to introduce an international audience to the best of British craftsmanship. We are proud to host the global debut of The Portfolio Series, a limited-edition range which brings together the exciting work of emerging young artists and The Dalmore’s expert Scotch whisky makers.”

Paul Martin, Avolta’s Category Manager for Liquor in the UK, added: “We are extremely proud to be able to offer this exceptional Dalmore Portfolio Series in our Heathrow World Duty Free stores, as a one-month exclusive in travel retail, ahead of its roll-out across the sector. We’re always looking for innovative and unique products for our customers and it’s exciting to be able to offer exceptional whiskies such as these.

“The creative partnership between The Dalmore and the V&A Dundee showcasing the work of talented local Scottish artists, all takes this collection of whiskies to another level, whilst delivering that all-important sense of heritage and place. We’re confident it will be extremely well received by our customers.”

Joanne Morris, Whyte & Mackay’s Commercial Controller, commented: “The Dalmore is enjoying continued consumer demand, especially in global travel retail. We are particularly proud to unveil this exceptional trio of whiskies, with the beautiful creativity of Fraser Gray.

“The partnership with Avolta and London Heathrow is of strategic importance to us, as we seek to push the boundaries of the channel. The Dalmore Portfolio Series is set to offer global travellers another truly memorable experience, for which The Dalmore has become known."

Suntory unveils 2024 Tsukuriwake Series at Changi Airport with Lotte

Japanese whisky specialist Suntory has partnered with Changi Airport Group (CAG) and Lotte Duty Free Singapore to present the Tsukuriwake Selection 2024 Limited Edition range at Singapore Changi Airport. 

This world-first airport activation showcases four single malts from the Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries, alongside the inaugural global travel retail exclusive Yamazaki and Hakushu Kogei Collection (2024 Japanese Kimono Edition), plus other House of Suntory craft spirits such as Roku Gin, Haku Vodka, Toki and Chita.

The event went live in July in Changi’s T1 Departure/Transit Zone, and will run until 25 August.

The 2024 Tsukuriwake Series comprises Yamazaki Golden Promise (retail price: $520), Yamazaki Islay Peated Malt ($520), Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt ($1,400) and Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara ($1,800). 

Suntory's 2024 Tsukuriwake Series activation at Singapore Changi Airport

The unique art of Tsukuriwake translates as “artisanship through a diversity of making”. Accordingly, each expression spotlights different elements of Japanese whisky artistry. The Tsukuriwake approach transcends diversification of cask maturation, incorporating whisky-making elements such as ingredient selection, peat and cask choice. It is driven by the core values of wa (harmony with Japanese nature), monozukuri (elevated Japanese craftsmanship) and omotenashi (the enjoyment of an authentic Japanese cultural experience).

“We are renowned worldwide for the innovation and artistry of our prestige spirits – and this exceptional series raises the bar once again,” said Suntory Global Spirits Managing Director Global Travel Retail Ashish Gandham.

“The 2024 Tsukuriwake Collection is the perfect showcase for the diversity of elements that go into the making of Yamazaki and Hakushu whiskies, which are sought after globally by discerning travellers. We are delighted to partner with Lotte Duty Free Singapore and Changi Airport Group for the global travel retail introduction of these four remarkable expressions, which epitomise the quality and craftsmanship that imbues our entire portfolio.”

Bespoke gifting

Highlights of the Changi activation include a central display case containing the Chiso kimono pattern that inspired the 2024 Kogei Collection (Japanese Kimono Edition). Dedicated stations explain the essence of Tsukuriwake; key details of the new Tsukuriwake 2024 Collection; and the uniqueness of the Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries.

Passengers can discover the tasting notes from the Kogei Collection and other key spirits, through nosing elements and sampling opportunities at the activation’s Tasting Bar. Finally, at the Art of Gifting station, dependent on spend, travellers can receive a selection of upscale gwps, including a decorated paper gift bag, branded coasters and limited-edition lapel pins.

“We are excited to unveil this House of Suntory flagship activation at Changi Airport Terminal 1, in partnership with Suntory Global Spirits and Lotte Duty Free Singapore,” said CAG Head of Airside Concessions Chandra Mahtani. “Not only does this immersive experience invite visitors to better appreciate the story behind the crafting of each spirit, but it presents a unique opportunity to purchase limited-edition bottles, complemented by bespoke gifting options.”

Lotte Duty Free Singapore Managing Director Jeff Jeong Soongyu said: “Lotte’s customers are always looking for innovation, and we know this new collection will have huge appeal, fuelled by the rise in demand for high-end Japanese whisky."