Travel retail Archives - The Spirits Business

Whisky to drive GTR recovery

Nicola Carruthers — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 11:21:35 +0000

Sales of whisky in global travel retail (GTR) rose by 77% by volume last year and are expected to increase by 16% in 2023, according to data from IWSR Drinks Market Analysis.

The IWSR revealed its key trends for GTR in 2023, with whisky and Champagne to ‘spearhead’ the channel’s resurgence in the years ahead. The analyst noted that a full recovery for GTR 'remains elusive in the short term, partly due to high global inflation and economic concerns’, and the war in Ukraine. The IWSR said GTR whisky volumes are predicted to post a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8% between 2023 and 2027. “Whisky proved the key engine for volume recovery in 2022, notably US whiskies benefiting from strong performance in the Americas,” said Jairo Lopez Suarez, head of GTR insights, IWSR. “Blended and malt Scotches also posted strong growth in 2022, but from a deep drop, and are still way short of pre-crisis volumes (-22% for malt, -26% for blends).” The IWSR noted that gin has led the recovery of spirits in the channel, while agave-based spirits surpassed 2019 levels in 2022. Furthermore, the analyst noted that recovery for brandy and Cognac were less positive, with the latter hit by softening demand in the US and the absence of Chinese travellers. China 'key' to GTR recovery General recovery in the channel is reliant on the return of Chinese travellers, the IWSR pointed out. The GTR channel is waiting for international travel to pick up since pandemic restrictions on Chinese consumers were relaxed in early 2023, Suarez noted. After recording a decline in 2022, duty free shopping destination Hainan is expected to bounce back in 2024 but with less focus on higher-priced segments. “The sheer size and growth of China’s burgeoning middle class, who will be adopting Hainan as a travel destination, is believed to be fuel enough to compensate for those Chinese nationals who are now ready to rejoin the international travel circuit,” Suarez explained. “There are also signs that Hainan is beginning to attract an international audience.” Citing International Air Transport Association (IATA) data, the IWSR said a full recovery in international air passenger numbers is now not forecast before 2025/2026. It also noted a potential move towards self-catering holidays as consumers deal with cost-of-living challenges. “The global travel retail channel is transforming as beverage alcohol brand owners reshape their strategies and adopt a more holistic approach across all global travel retail channels,” said Emily Neill, chief operating officer, market research, IWSR. “Brand activations will evolve to reinforce the halo effect from GTR to domestic channels. Renewed focus will fall onto subchannels such as cruises and airline pour, and premium segments will regain market share as the channel increasingly embraces its role as a high-end product showcase.” The IWSR also named ‘re-imagined’ brand activations for luxury customers as a trend in the channel. “The rise of standalone boutiques, shop-in-shop concepts, pop-ups and tie-ins with non-beverage luxury brands in GTR environments are all indications of brand owners seeking to target not only the high-end drinker, but also the more general luxury shopper who may also be after fashion, accessories or cosmetics,” Suarez added.

Maestro Dobel retail experience opens at JFK

Georgie Collins — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 09:06:20 +0000

Proximo Spirits has launched a three-month ‘store-in-store’ experience in John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) for Maestro Dobel Tequila.

The immersive experience, called Smoothness Mastered, offers travellers the chance to ‘delve into the world of luxury Tequila’ and discover more about Maestro Dobel. The brand has been named as the Official Tequila of the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions, and the shop represents one of the first activations within the multi-year partnership between the premium brand and Spanish golfer Jon Rahm, whose presence is thematic within the experience. Roy Summers, head of global travel retail for Proximo Spirits, commented: “We are delighted to bring this innovative retail experience to life, that sees our world-class Tequila from Maestro Dobel on display in the equally revered location of John F Kennedy International Airport. “Not only is it the first of many activations that celebrate Maestro Dobel’s relationship with PGA Tour Golf, it’s also the first Maestro Dobel Tequila dedicated pop-up. “As the growth of luxury Tequila in the travel retail continues to go from strength-to-strength, we’re delighted to share this experience with both international and domestic travellers.” The retail space was developed in partnership with International Shoppes and is located in Terminal 1. Once in-store, customers are immersed in ‘a luxury experience for Tequila and golf-lovers alike’, where they can pose on a putting green, journey through the partnership with Rahm, and try samples of Maestro Dobel. Customers will be offered a custom-made shopping experience, with on-site bottle engraving available across the featured range of Maestro Dobel. More than one million passengers are expected to pass through JFK International Airport in June, July and August, with the activation set to impact inbound passengers travelling onwards to PGA Tour events, including the upcoming FedExCup Playoffs in Memphis, Chicago and Atlanta. Scott Halpern, co-CEO of International Shoppes, said: “We are excited to announce this partnership with Proximo Spirits, a world-class premium spirits company. It is a collaboration that allows us to expand our premium Tequila offerings and introduce an innovative range of Maestro Dobel Tequilas to our world-class travellers. “This activation promises to be unique, engaging and an immersive opportunity that is designed to provide a thoughtfully curated sensorial experience. "We are appreciative that Proximo chose International Shoppes to bring this exceptional luxury experience to life at JFK’s T1, as it embodies our commitment to providing the finest selection of spirits and delivering one-of-a-kind ‘retail-tainment’.” Smoothness Mastered will be in residence at JFK until the end of August, with prices ranging up to US$165 per bottle of Maestro Dobel.

Diageo opens cocktail bar in Dublin Airport

Nicola Carruthers — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 09:34:21 +0000

Tanqueray owner Diageo has opened a cocktail and spirits-only bar in Dublin Airport's Terminal 2.

Tailors Bar is described as ideal for those in search of a ‘luxurious pre-flight beverage’. Guests can choose drinks from a menu of cocktails made with three Diageo brands: Ketel One Vodka, Tanqueray gin and Roe & Co Irish whiskey. The décor of the bar is inspired by the three brands, while the design is based on the worlds of fashion and fine tailoring. Hilary Quinn, Diageo Ireland marketing director, said: “We are immensely proud to bring Irish and international travellers the first-ever cocktail and spirits-only bar to Dublin Airport. “We are thrilled to showcase the elevated drinks and luxurious experience that discerning travellers can look forward to enjoying before their journey with Ketel One, Tanqueray gin and Roe & Co whiskey at the helm of this exciting opening, just in time for summer 2023 travels.” Located next door to the Sunglasses Hut in the central thoroughfare of Terminal 2, Tailors is open every day from 10am to 7pm. The venue offers bar service and table service with limited seating managed on a first-come, first-served basis. Leonard Miller, head of media sales and brand partnerships at Dublin Airport, added: “This partnership exemplifies our commitment to enhancing the airport journey and providing an exceptional experience for our passengers. We cannot wait for travellers to immerse themselves in the allure of Tailors, where craftsmanship, flavour, and ambiance intertwine." Diageo has also opened an alcohol-free pop-up bar adjacent to Tailors, where drinkers can sample zero-ABV versions of Tanqueray, Gordon’s, Guinness and Carlsberg. Citing Kam Media data from June 2022, Diageo said Ireland was the fastest-growing alcohol-free market globally. Last month, Diageo promoted Jenna Ba to the role of global brand ambassador for its Tanqueray No. Ten gin.

Chivas finishes part of blend in Irish whiskey casks

Melita Kiely — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 11:40:00 +0000

Blended Scotch brand Chivas has released its first whisky that uses some liquid finished in Irish whiskey casks.

Chivas Extra 13 Irish Whiskey Cask will be available exclusively through global travel retail from July. A portion of the blend has spent time in Irish whiskey casks – a first for the brand. It sits at 40% ABV. Sandy Hyslop, director of blending at Chivas, said: “After the success of the previous expressions in the range, we felt the time was right to bolster the collection with a new variant selectively finished in Irish whiskey casks. “At Chivas, we believe that blended is better and this is perfectly demonstrated through the unique and experimental Extra 13 range, which is pushing the boundaries of traditional Scotch whisky.” Tasting notes include subtle spice, fresh red apple and soda on the nose, leading to honey on the palate. The finish is said to be smooth and sweet. Liya Zhang, vice-president of marketing at Pernod Ricard Global Travel Retail, said: “We are thrilled to launch the new Chivas Extra 13 Irish Whiskey Cask expression, exclusively for travel retail customers globally. “The first of its kind blend includes Scotch heritage with the rich elements of Irish whiskey casks, offering shoppers and collectors a unique taste experience.” In February this year, Chivas introduced Ultis XX, a blended Scotch whisky containing five single malts each aged for at least 20 years. Earlier this month, The Spirits Business compiled the list of 10 biggest-selling Scotch whiskies by volume, following the publishing of The Brand Champions 2023 report.

Old Pulteney unveils 13YO whisky

Alice Brooker — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 11:33:30 +0000

Scotch brand Old Pulteney has released a travel retail-exclusive expression, finished in Spanish oak casks.

The liquid was matured in American oak barrels, and showcases a ‘coastal influence’ that has been derived from the distillery’s location in Wick on the Caithness Coast, located on the northerly-most shores of Scotland. The bottling delivers notes of coconut, citrus, vanilla custard and candied almonds. Malcolm Waring, Pulteney distillery manager, said: “I’m so pleased to introduce Old Pulteney’s 13 Years Old to our range. "The expression truly embodies Pulteney Distillery’s signature coastal style, with a deliciously distinctive flavour that comes from being lovingly matured by the sea.” The 13 Years Old joins the brand’s global travel retail range of single malts, currently comprising the 10 Years Old and the 16 Years Old. Waring hand-selected the casks for the 13-year-old single malt. Waring added: “Our 13 Years Old is a wonderful dram that takes travel lovers on a journey of their own – starting with tropical flavours of coconut and citrus, reminiscent of sunny holidays, before making way for sweet notes of vanilla, toffee and candied nuts. "I’m really looking forward to sharing this expression with whisky drinkers across the continent.” The whisky is available in one-litre bottles at duty free stores at UK airports, resting at 43% ABV. It will be rolled out to Europe in the coming months. In September last year, Old Pulteney released the first whisky in a new range inspired by coastal locations around the world.

Benriach debuts 40YO whiskies

Nicola Carruthers — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 10:52:02 +0000

Brown-Forman-owned Speyside distillery Benriach has released two 40-year-old single malts, including one exclusive to global travel retail.

The new Benriach whiskies are The Forty and the travel retail-exclusive Forty Octave Cask Matured. Created using 'rare' peated casks, The Forty (43.5% ABV) is said to be one of the oldest peated malts to be released from a Speyside distillery. From June, The Forty will be available as an ongoing release in specialist retailers in select global markets, priced at RRP £3,200 (US$4,084). It was previously only available as a non-fungible token (NFT) on BlockBar. The Forty offers a ‘richly fruity’ nose with notes of sweet orange, plum, honey pomelo, dark chocolate-coated berries, and flavours of orchard fruits, red apple and white peach. Rachel Barrie, master blender for Benriach, said: “Fine Bourbon casks have gradually developed exquisite notes of honeyed pomelo and lush orchard fruits to create Benriach The Forty. “Over the decades of maturation, the smoky character of peated Benriach spirit refines and mellows, transforming into ripe fruit sweetness. This intricate character is interwoven with dark notes of chocolate, rich plum and smooth walnut from Port casks sourced from the Douro Valley." Meanwhile, The Forty Octave Cask Matured was matured in small octave casks, which are an eighth of the size of a regular cask. There are only 135 bottles of the expression available in select international airports, priced at RRP £3,800 (US$4,850). The 51.5% ABV bottling has an aroma of sweet plum, cherry and honey-glazed red apple, and flavours of ripe plum, pear, dark berries, cedarwood and silken oak. Barrie added: “Crafted from the staves of refill and first-fill American oak Bourbon casks, the octaves casks used for Benriach The Forty Octave Cask Matured create a sublime interplay of indulgent orchard and dark fruits, with a flawless silken oak finish.” Earlier this month, Brown-Forman relaunched its Highland single malt brand Glenglassaugh with a new trio of expressions and a coastal-inspired design.

Bombay Sapphire debuts GTR-exclusive gin

Nicola Carruthers — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 11:00:46 +0000

Bacardi-owned Bombay Sapphire has released a global travel retail-exclusive gin that celebrates Tuscan juniper.

The new Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru Tuscan Juniper has been made with juniper berries sourced from the hills of Tuscany in Italy. The ripe juniper berries are dried naturally, resulting in a ‘sweet, pine-fresh intensity’ that complements the anise flavour of Tuscan fennel seeds. The gin’s botanicals are vapour infused at the brand’s distillery in Laverstoke Mill, based in Hampshire, UK. The brand claims to have completely sourced its botanicals from sustainable-certified suppliers. Furthermore, no artificial flavours or essences are used, Bacardi said. Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru Tuscan Juniper is recommend served with tonic and a lemon twist, or used as the base for a Martini. According to IWSR data cited by Bacardi, gin is expected to remain the fastest-growing spirits category for the next four years. It is predicted to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7% from 2023 to 2026. IWSR data signals that gin’s growth will be led by the super-premium segment, which is forecast to double in the next three years. The premium-and-above segment is projected to represent 45% of the gin category by 2025. “We know that travellers are in constant search for exclusive products and experiences and that there’s a rising number of gin connoisseurs in the market for premium gins who want a sophisticated taste profile,” said Ignacio Vazquez, Bacardi Global Travel Retail's head of marketing. “With its unique Italian flavours, Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru Tuscan Juniper brings gin lovers the opportunity to savour and appreciate the nuances of its pure and multi-layered taste profile. “Our ambition with this latest innovation, is to build on Bombay Sapphire ‘s position as the top-selling premium gin in the channel (IWSR 2021), bringing excitement to the category, delighting travellers, and delivering greater profitability for retailers.” The 47% ABV gin is available from select airports globally, priced at RRP US$55 per one-litre bottle. In February 2023, Bombay Sapphire launched Premier Cru Murcian Lemon gin to honour its long-standing relationships with suppliers and farmers. Last month, Bacardi appointed Alessandro Garneri as its new master of botanicals after the retirement of Ivano Tonutti.

Tobago Gold takes to the sky with AirBaltic

Melita Kiely — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 08:47:53 +0000

Award-winning liqueur Tobago Gold has extended its reach in travel retail after securing a listing with AirBaltic.

Since 1 May, the chocolate rum cream liqueur brand has been available on all AirBaltic flights. Tobago Gold is available to purchase in 50ml miniature bottles as part of the AirCafe menu in economy class. AirBaltic currently flies to 80 destinations from its main hub in Riga, Latvia, and its bases in Tallinn (Estonia), Vilnius (Lithuania), and Tampere (Finland). Helena Zakmane, global commercial director of Tobago Gold, said: “This is an important step for Tobago Gold on our global brand development journey. “We welcome the opportunity for passengers to experience our unique product. On a personal note, as I am from Riga, there is a certain pride in seeing Tobago Gold on board AirBaltic.” Stream Distribution is a Latvia-based company with experience in both domestic and travel retail channels in the Baltic region, and Tobago Gold’s partner in the area. Valts Ermansons, managing director of Stream Distribution, commented: “Availability of Tobago Gold on board AirBaltic is a great opportunity to showcase the product to the consumers in the Baltics. “This listing is already helping us to continue the expansion of the brand in the region.” Tobago Gold launched in summer 2021. It is now available in Trinidad and Tobago, the UK, Germany, Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Denmark, Iceland, the Baltics, Portugal, Switzerland, Romania, Armenia, Ukraine, Singapore and Hong Kong.

Rene Riedi to stay as IAADFS chairman

Melita Kiely — Fri, 26 May 2023 10:04:34 +0000

The International Association of Airport and Duty Free Stores (IAADFS) has re-elected Rene Riedi as chairman for the coming year.

Riedi, of Dufry, will hold the position until June 2024. Padraig Drennan, of Stellar Partners, was re-elected as vice-chair, and Erasmo Orillac, of Motta Internacional, was re-appointed treasurer and audit chair. Mark Mariani, of 3Sixty Duty Free, and Enrique Urioste, of Dufry, were also re-elected to the board. Riedi said: “I deeply appreciate the support of my fellow board members in devoting time as volunteer leaders for the organisation as we look towards an ever-changing, challenging, but extremely positive trajectory for the duty free and travel retail industry.” Additional board members currently serving on the board include Nuno do Amaral, of Aer Rianta, Michael Halpem, of International Shoppers, David Bernstein, of Carisam, and Louis Snelders, of Duty Free Shop. Michael Payne, president and CEO of the IAADFS, commented: “Our focus has been and continues to be exploring ideas and approaches to better serve our membership and the overall industry. “Rene brings his years of experience and knowledge of the industry to help guide us in addressing member needs and focusing on those advocacy issues impacting the industry. “We want to build on the momentum from our successful summit last month in West Palm Beach to better support and advance the growth of duty free and travel retail, and Rene is committed to that goal.” In other travel retail news, Rémy Cointreau Global Travel Retail named its new CEO: Fida Bou Chabke.

Rémy Cointreau names travel retail CEO

Melita Kiely — Fri, 26 May 2023 08:33:14 +0000

Fida Bou Chabke has been appointed CEO of Rémy Cointreau Global Travel Retail, effective from 1 July.

Bou Chabke will succeed Adam Hamzah, who is leaving to pursue other personal interests. She will be based in Singapore. Bou Chabke has worked for Rémy Cointreau for six years; her roles have included general management positions in Asia and Europe, and most recently the title of general manager of Louis XIII in the Americas. As CEO of global travel retail, Bou Chabke will develop the company’s portfolio across the channel. She will also continue to lead on diversity, equity and inclusion in partnership with the firm’s committee worldwide. Ian McLernon, CEO – EMEA, Asia Pacific and global travel retail, said: “Please join me in congratulating Fida on her new role and wishing her continued success within the group. “With Fida joining our leadership team, we eagerly anticipate further growth of our brands in the strategically significant global travel retail channel.” In other news, Rémy Cointreau has also named Alice Hoffmann as marketing director for global travel retail. Also due to be based in Singapore, Hoffmann will report to Bou Chabke. Hoffmann has 14 years’ experience with Rémy Cointreau in various brand management roles. Most recently, she held the position of global brand director for Cointreau, based in Paris. Rémy Cointreau experienced a 10.1% increase in its full-year sales during fiscal 2022/23.

Johnnie Walker shop opens in Heathrow T2

Melita Kiely — Fri, 05 May 2023 11:13:21 +0000

Diageo Global Travel has opened a permanent ‘shop-in-shop’ concept for Johnnie Walker blended Scotch whisky.

The store can be located in the World Duty Free shop in Heathrow Airport, Terminal 2. The retail space features an LED display, with a ‘Whisky Explorer’ zone complete with an oversized interactive digital screen to help shoppers learn more about how Johnnie Walker whiskies are made. Julie Bramham, global brand director of Johnnie Walker, said: “This new concept ‘shop-in-shop’ is designed with the shopper at the centre of everything, in order to facilitate exploration of the full Johnnie Walker range. “With this new retail space, we are delivering an amazing brand experience with different ways to interact with Johnnie Walker, from unassisted exploration via interactive content to high-end service from our brand ambassadors, as well as bespoke personalisation and gifting options.” The shop will allow travellers to personalise their purchases with on-site monogramming and gift-wrapping. Andrew Cowan, managing director, Diageo Global Travel, added: “It is really exciting to open our first shop-in-shop in this new, more dynamic and immersive format. “Alongside our partners at Heathrow and World Duty Free, we are working to offer our shoppers something unique, more luxurious, more engaging and more visual. “The new shop-in-shop will bring to life the craft and versatility of our Scotch, providing passengers something personal for themselves or for loved ones to enjoy.” In March this year, the blended Scotch whisky brand named the four winners of its 2023 Black Label Global Bartender Challenge.

Mark Anthony Brands enters travel retail

Nicola Carruthers — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 09:14:39 +0000

White Claw owner Mark Anthony Brands has secured a global distribution partnership for its spirits portfolio with travel retail operator B&S.

In global travel retail, B&S will represent Mark Anthony Brands’ new White Claw Premium Vodka, Irish whiskey and gin maker Glendalough Distillery, and Canadian whisky Bearface. Enda O’Sullivan, vice-president of spirits at Mark Anthony Brands, said: “We are thrilled to further enhance our ambitious global distribution strategy with B&S and bring our incredible, premium spirits portfolio to new audiences and consumers. “B&S are a world-class distribution partner with a network of duty free retailers serving millions of travellers daily around the world, and we look forward to working with the team.” White Claw Premium Vodka, described as the ‘world’s first’ triple wave filtered vodka, was launched in the US in March. It marked the brand’s first move outside of the hard seltzer category. “We are hugely excited for the potential of Mark Anthony Brands International in the global retail channel, kicking off with the launch of White Claw Premium Vodka in major USA airports over the coming months,” O’Sullivan said. As part of the ‘strategic’ deal, B&S will present Mark Anthony Brands' products at the Tax Free World Association’s (TFWA) conferences in Singapore and Cannes this year. The company's products were showcased at the IAADFS Summit of the Americas show in Florida, US, earlier this month. Maurice Riegel, managing director at B&S, added: “With our shared passion for excellence and digital innovation we are eager to unlock Mark Anthony Brand International’s full potential within the travel retail market, setting new industry benchmarks.” This year, Glendalough revealed a new bottle design for its gin range, created in homage to the valley of Glendalough in Ireland and the people behind its gin production.

Glenmorangie debuts barber pop-up in GTR

Alice Brooker — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 10:45:51 +0000

Moët Hennessy has rolled out Glenmorangie’s ‘It’s Kind of Delicious & Wonderful’ campaign to six airports with a barber shop pop-up.

The It's Kind of Delicious and Wonderful campaign was first unveiled in 2020, in an effort to reimagine everyday moments as ‘wonderful’ experiences. In November 2022, photographer Miles Aldridge partnered with Glenmorangie to shoot the second instalment in the whisky brand’s campaign. The first of the brand's travel retail activations, created in partnership with Dufry, kicked off at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport in Madrid, Spain. The campaign includes a pop-up that comprises whisky tasting and a barber shop station to offer a ‘self-care experience’. David de Miguel, global liquor category management head at Dufry, commented: “At Dufry, we are thrilled to collaborate with Moët Hennessy Travel Retail Europe on this exciting project, which brings a fresh and inventive approach to travel retail. "We are committed to providing our customers with exceptional and unforgettable experiences, and we believe that Glenmorangie's activation will offer just that.” The pop-up aligns with the brand's aim to recruit new consumers by targeting a younger generation, as well as inviting 'more women whisky lovers' into the fold. Shoppers can receive a hand or face massage, as well as read the Glenmorangie magazine to learn more about the brand and its travel retail exclusive offerings of The Accord, The Elementa and The Tribute. The Moët Hennessy travel retail arm is aiming to ‘elevate the whisky and luxury categories’ by offering the channel-exclusive activities. The activations will also see hot air balloons featured at Istanbul Airport, and greenhouse experiences at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, Heathrow Airport, Luton Airport, and Edinburgh Airport. The brand recently released a ‘nutty and spicy’ 12-year-old whisky finished in Amontillado Sherry casks.

Cambridge Distillery enters travel retail

Nicola Carruthers — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 09:24:25 +0000

English gin producer Cambridge Distillery has made its debut in travel retail at Gatwick Airport.

Cambridge Distillery launched at WH Smith’s new Curiocity stores in Gatwick’s North and South Terminals, which opened on 29 March. Leon Pullin, head of sales for Cambridge Distillery, said: “Remember that time travelling to the airport wishing you had purchased a gift during your travels? We have all been there. “Curiocity has now become the perfect platform to reach passengers who wish to delight their loved ones with a luxurious gin gift. "The first stores have launched in Gatwick North and South Terminals with the intention to expand into other key transport hubs. “These well-equipped stores have filled the gap in the last-minute travel gifting space, with a perfectly curated range, encapsulating the nations beloved produce from iconic locations.” A selection of gins will be available at both stores, including the distillery’s 10^th Anniversary Tasting Pack, filled with 12 gins. The 10^th Anniversary Tasting Pack contains 50ml bottles of Cambridge Dry Gin, and the ‘world first’ Truffle, Japanese and Anty Gins. Gins from the distillery’s English Herbarium Collection will also be on offer. The range is made with local, seasonal botanicals grown in the meadows surrounding the Cambridgeshire distillery. In addition to The English Herbarium and the Cambridge Distillery Collection, the pack contains four of the brand’s most popular limited edition gin prototypes released over the last decade. Among the prototypes are Afternoon Tea Gin, designed to be paired with the traditional British dining experience; and seasonal release Spiced Gin, a festive bottling with notes of orange, cinnamon, cloves and ginger. The pack also contains Three Seasons Gin, which was created to be the key ingredient in a Martini. Each of the 12 gins have been distilled with botanicals from across the world, including the English meadows of Grantchester, Alba in Italy, and Japan.

Midleton launches four whiskeys in GTR

Alice Brooker — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 09:09:55 +0000

Irish Distillers’ Midleton has rolled out four single cask releases from its Very Rare collection in travel retail.

Pernod Ricard Global Travel Retail (GTR) has revealed that the 27-Year-Old First-Fill Bourbon; 25-Year-Old Virgin American Oak; 21-Year-Old Virgin American Oak; and 24-Year-Old First-Fill Bourbon will be rolled out to various airports across Europe. Each of the four individual casks has been hand selected by the brand’s master distiller Kevin O’Gorman. Liya Zhang, vice-president marketing, Pernod Ricard GTR, said: "We have chosen to launch the new Midleton Very Rare Single Casks with retail partners at important travel hubs across Europe, in order to delight luxury spirit collectors travelling through these key destinations. "We’re excited to continue working with Midleton Distillery, who are renowned for innovation and quality bottlings, and hope to launch more exclusive products for whiskey fans across the globe in the coming years.” Midleton Very Rare’s 27-Year-Old First-Fill Bourbon (49.6% ABV), exclusive to Gebr Heinemann, will be available in Amsterdam Airport’s Exquisite Store. Meanwhile, the 25-Year-Old (57.2% ABV) is listed exclusively at three locations, through Heinemann at the airports of Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Shannon in Ireland. The 21-Year-Old Midleton Very Rare Virgin American Oak (55.5% ABV) launched with World Duty Free (Dufry) at London Heathrow. Finally, the 24-Year-Old Midleton Very Rare First-Fill Bourbon (57.1% ABV) can be purchased with Aer Rianta at Dublin Airport. Antonio Duva, general manager for Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Pacific at Pernod Ricard GTR, commented: “We’re proud of the global success of the booming Irish whiskey category and are delighted to bring a rare and luxury offering to whiskey collectors and enthusiasts. "We are thrilled to be working with our key partners to bring to market very special and exclusive releases, and the Midleton Very Rare Single Cask release is truly a one-of-a-kind launch." Last month, the brand’s Very Rare The Pinnacle Vintage was revealed to be the fastest sale to date on BlockBar, and the most valuable whiskey at US$130,000.

Jägermeister GTR sales rise by double digits

Nicola Carruthers — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 09:40:17 +0000

Herbal liqueur Jägermeister has become the eighth-largest premium spirits brand in global travel retail (GTR) after recording double-digit growth in the channel.

Mast-Jägermeister cited the figures from IWSR Drinks Market Analysis' top 20 premium spirits brand lines in 2022.

The German producer said it had ‘significantly’ increased its sales in 2022, reporting double-digit growth compared to 2019. Mast-Jägermeister achieved record sales in 2021 after reaching 8.7 million nine-litre cases. The family-owned firm recorded its ‘best results yet’ in GTR, which is now the company’s seventh-largest market. “We have enjoyed tremendous international success as we’ve continued to ramp up activities and bring new concepts to life in recent months,” said Jägermeister vice-president of GTR, Tobias Witte. “Pre-Covid we broadened our international distribution and subsequently were able to expand partnerships and increase our footprint with new customers. “At the same time, we expanded our portfolio with Jägermeister Manifest and Jägermeister Cold Brew Coffee. Travel retail is currently the largest and second-largest market respectively for these products. "What’s exciting is that we still see great potential here, especially as travel in and out of Asia picks up again.” The company has ‘ambitious’ plans to grow the brand further in 2023. This year, Jägermeister will continue to invest in raising its visibility in the channel and roll out its GTR campaign The Secret is You. The company is planning more than 60 promotions globally, supported by 17 brand ambassadors. The brand will also expand its presence on ferries and cruise ships. Witte added: “Our task is to create surprising, high-quality activations geared to Jägermeister consumers, with exclusive products such as our limited edition gift bottles and shot glasses. “We continue to drive forward premiumisation and coordinate campaigns with domestic markets which are driving overall brand awareness." Witte said airports are "evolving into international shopping malls", welcoming more than one billion passengers from around the world.

Jameson and Trip Advisor create city guides

Melita Kiely — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 12:30:37 +0000

Jameson Irish whiskey has partnered with travel site Trip Advisor for its latest campaign, Arrive Like a Local.

The Arrive Like a Local campaign builds on the Jameson’s Widen the Circle initiative, and will launch in 35 airports worldwide in March. The GTR extension features a digital library of ‘city guides’, which gives Jameson-inspired recommendations about where to explore, eat, drink and mix in 12 cities globally. Liya Zhang, vice-president of marketing at Pernod Ricard Global Travel Retail (GTR), owner of Jameson, said: “The beauty of travel is that it allows us to make new memories and share stories, particularly those that are authentic to the destination. But that’s harder for travellers to do when they feel on the outside of the local circle. “Jameson wants people to feel connected wherever they go. And we are doing that by equipping them with the tools they need to arrive like a local in the key cities that Jameson fans love to travel to. “We believe that this campaign will bring travellers closer to their destinations and create a deeper connection with local people and our Jameson brand.” The Jameson city guides can be accessed by a QR code, or through jamesonwhiskey.com. They will offer off-the-beaten-track experiences for travellers to discover, a voiceover experience to access before visitors have left the airport, and suggestions for restaurants and food vendors. Plus, Jameson will give tips on the best drinking dens in the city, including speakeasies and pubs, and local cocktail recipes to ‘mix like a local’. Brendan Buckley, international marketing director at Irish Distillers, added: “At Jameson we have a long-held belief that life is better shared in moments of authentic human connection. “As part of our global message to Widen the Circle, the Arrive Like a Local campaign encourages people to look for the shared values that unite them, wherever they travel, making the world feel like a smaller, friendlier place while connecting a global community.”

Bushmills bottles 33-year-old single malt

Melita Kiely — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 10:29:13 +0000

Irish whiskey Bushmills has completed its current Causeway Collection with a 33-year-old single malt, exclusive to travel retail.

Only 690 bottles of Bushmills 33 Years Old Port Cask will be available via World Duty Free’s specialist World of Whiskies stores at Heathrow Airport, UK, priced at £1,245 (US$1,500) per bottle. The non-chill-filtered whiskey has been bottled at its cask strength of 53.3% ABV. Alex Thomas, Bushmills master blender, said: “It is truly a privilege to work with such rare whiskeys in The Causeway Collection. They are the fruits of over 400 years of Bushmills whiskey-making tradition, each expertly created and nurtured over decades. “The Causeway Collection is a celebration of our passion for single malts, and these special whiskeys are our greatest treasures. At Bushmills, we continue to innovate and create new expressions to excite the whiskey community.” The 33-year-old whiskey was filled into fortified wine casks from northern Portugal on 19 April 1989. Tasting notes include dark fruits such as blackcurrants and blackberries. Paul Martin, Dufry category manager for liquor in the UK, noted: “We know that in travel retail consumers are always looking for something a bit different or unique and this most definitely ticks that box. We expect it to be a great success.” In June last year, Bushmills released a whiskey inspired by the hit TV show Peaky Blinders.

Mark Mariani joins IAADFS board

Nicola Carruthers — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 10:44:45 +0000

The International Association of Airport and Duty Free Stores (IAADFS) has added Mark Mariani, of Three Sixty Duty Free & More, to its board of directors.

Mariani fills the seat previously vacated by Philip Hancock, the chief financial officer of Miami-based Three Sixty Duty Free. Rene Riedi, IAADFS chairman, said Mariani would "bring considerable knowledge and experience from his many years in the industry" and added it was "important" to have Three Sixty Duty Free involved in board deliberations. Mariani has spent his entire career in the duty free industry, beginning in 1990 when he joined tobacco firm Philip Morris International (PMI) as a sales representative in San Francisco. He worked with PMI for more than 18 years, holding roles across sales, management and marketing. Mariani then moved to Scorpio Distribution to head up the Americas division, before joining Heinemann Americas to assist with the opening of the Miami office. In 2020, Mariani joined duty free retailer Three Sixty Duty Free, where he currently serves as vice-president of business development. Mariani said he was “honoured” to join the board, as he has attended the IAADFS travel retail conference since the early 1990s. “Mark has a tremendous amount of knowledge and a broad understanding of the duty free and travel retail business,” said Michael Payne, president and CEO, IAADFS. “His experience from both the supplier and buyer sides will bring a unique perspective and focus to the IAADFS board as we all adjust to the constantly changing dynamics of our business. “Mark’s personable style and many relationships throughout the industry will be huge assets for IAADFS.” This year's IAADFS Summit of the Americas show will return to West Palm Beach, Florida, from 16-19 April. Speaker and best-selling author Scott Miller will be the opening keynote speaker for the 2023 event.

Seven Tails teams up with BA

Nicola Carruthers — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 09:54:24 +0000

Brandy producer Seven Tails Distillers has secured the house pour for its XO expression across British Airways lounges at Heathrow Airport.

BA's Club, Gold and Concorde lounges will pour Seven Tails XO as its house brandy, alongside two cocktails created by the brand’s co-founder, Joel Fraser. The serves are: the Foxes Tail, a play on the classic Horses Neck, a mix of Seven Tails XO with ginger ale, Angostura Bitters and orange zest; and the Very French Martini, which features Seven Tails XO, pineapple juice and berry liqueur. Co-founder Arnaud de Trabuc said: “I have been flying on British Airways with great pleasure for many years. As a Gold member, I use the BA lounges frequently. “Nothing could give me more pleasure than to see Seven Tails XO, the Fox, served in this luxurious environment. It is also a wonderful exposure for our up-and-coming brand and I am sure that BA passengers will enjoy discovering it.” Seven Tails is also served in BA’s lounges across the US, including in California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and Washington. The brandy producer recently expanded its presence in the US after gaining a distribution deal with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits (SGWS). In November last year, Seven Tails Distillers released what is thought to be the world’s first spiced brandy. To create the bottling, grape brandy was aged in oak barrels in France for a minimum of 12 months. The liquid was then naturally flavoured with traditional French spices, including vanilla and coffee beans. The product secured a top 10 spot among SB’s top 50 innovative spirits list of 2022.

Brown-Forman shakes up team

Alice Brooker — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 10:37:04 +0000

Jack Daniel's owner Brown-Forman has revealed several new appointments, and that its vice-president and director of global travel retail (GTR) Americas, APAC (Asia Pacific) and IMENA (India, Middle East and North Africa) is retiring.

Montgomery E Wilson is leaving the role of vice-president and director of GTR Americas, APAC and IMENA after working with Brown-Forman for 30 years. “Monte was part of the Brown-Forman team for nearly 30 years and was instrumental in the successful development of our GTR business. We sincerely thank him for his dedication and engagement and wish him the best in this new chapter of his life," said David Rodiek, vice- -president, managing director, GTR, Brown-Forman. Brown-Forman is making a number of appointments and restructuring the firm. The updated structure will be applied to the travel retail business arm of Brown-Forman, with the company to be organised into three geographical regions: Americas, EMEAI (Europe, Middle East, Africa, India) and APAC (Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Pacific Islands). “In line with our ambitious long-term growth targets, we are optimising our GTR business structure by consolidating it to three geographic areas to better position us for future growth,” Rodiek explained. The role of GTR director EMEAI will be taken over by Oscar Camargo, who previously held the position of director GTR Europe. Camargo has been part of the Brown-Forman GTR team for five years. Camargo has been part of the GTR team for more than five years. EMEAI is said to be the second strongest region for the Woodford Reserve owner in terms of revenue, after the Americas. Dreamy Zhou, who has worked with Brown-Forman for more than seven years, will move from manager – GTR Southeast Asia and ANZPI (Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Islands) to senior manager GTR APAC. Camargo and Zhou will assume the positions in February 2023. “We congratulate Oscar and Dreamy on their new roles and look forward to further growing our GTR portfolio and business together with the entire team,” Rodiek added. Vivian May, previously global travel retail marketing specialist and Latin America region coordinator, will move to the role of customer marketing specialist Americas. Ryan Van Arnam, vice-president and managing director, Brown-Forman UK and Ireland, recently revealed that the purchase of Diplomático has provided the company with a "market-leading point" to enter the fast-growing super-premium rum category in the UK.

Dewar’s creates CNY campaign in GTR

Alice Brooker — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 10:55:59 +0000

Bacardi-owned Dewar’s has marked Chinese New Year with a global travel retail (GTR) campaign featuring its Double Double whisky series.

The Scotch whisky brand’s omni-channel campaign, rolled out across 11 locations in the Asia Pacific, marks the Year of the Rabbit. The Double Double series comprises small batch, prestige and aged whiskies exclusive to GTR. Gaurav Joshi, regional director, Asia Pacific, Bacardi GTR, said: “With an upturn in the number of Chinese tourists choosing to celebrate the lunar new year in Hainan, the fortunes of travel retail in China are starting to look much more positive again. “In Chinese culture, the rabbit symbolises longevity, peace and prosperity which also bodes well for industry recovery.” The campaigne will feature personalised and interactive digital consumer experience, allowing consumers to ‘discover their unique fortune’ based on their Chinese zodiac by scanning a QR code displayed on the product pack. Joshi added: “The Dewar’s Double Double omni-channel campaign is progressive and modern, epitomising the trendsetting, individuality and wit of Dewar’s. “We are already seeing tremendous engagement from whisky taste-makers interacting with the regional campaign in-store in China, Singapore, Taiwan and Malaysia.” Several stores featuring the campaign will present the 2o-year-old Double Double whisky, retailing for US$114.99 per 500ml bottle. The campaign will also feature several animations published across retailer websites and social media platforms. Last year, Dewar's debuted a 21-year-old rye cask-finished whisky as its first NFT release. The bottling was crafted by master blender Stephanie Macleod, and is part of the brand’s Double Double series. In 2021, the brand created an eco-friendly metal box for its 12-year-old and 18-year-old blended Scotch whiskies.

Monkey 47 launches ‘Traveller’s Compendium’ in GTR

Melita Kiely — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 11:09:50 +0000

Pernod Ricard Global Travel Retail (GTR) has released Monkey 47 'Traveller’s Compendium' exclusively in Heinemann airport stores.

The travel retail-exclusive pack and bottle design were inspired by travel, adventure and hidden gems of the world. The pack contains Monkey 47 luggage stickers, with five sets to collect. Antonio Duva, general manager for EMEA and Pacific at Pernod Ricard GTR, said: “This exclusive product signifies our long-standing relationship with Heinemann and offers travellers in selected airports across Europe and Australia something unique and special.” The launch is being supported by 'Traveller’s Compendium'-themed activations in Heinemann Duty Free stores in Frankfurt and Berlin in Germany, and My Duty Free shops in Munich airport. Travellers will be able to visit the activations until March. Lisa McCann, group brand director at Pernod Ricard GTR, added: “Monkey 47 ‘Traveller’s Compendium’ perfectly channels our consumer’s increasing expectations for novelty and exclusivity and has been designed to appeal to those with a love of travel and a desire for unique experiences. “In line with the launch, we’ve aimed to create a marketing campaign which will position the limited edition pack as a must-have for collectors and the perfect gift for gin enthusiasts with a taste for adventure and exploration.” The collectable bottle is available for RRP €43 (US$47). Pernod Ricard took full ownership of Monkey 47 in 2020. In October last year, the brand revealed the 2022 limited edition bottling of Monkey 47 Distiller’s Cut. Furthermore, the managing director and CEO of Pernod Ricard South Asia singled out gin as having a ‘bright future’ in India, with several innovations planned.

Bowmore unveils Lunar New Year release

Georgie Collins — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 11:25:14 +0000

Scotch whisky producer Bowmore has released a Lunar New Year bottling exclusively to global travel retail.

The 18-year-old Bowmore Lunar New Year release has been matured in a combination of oloroso and Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks. Manuel González, marketing director of global travel retail for Beam Suntory, said: “We are thrilled to unveil the 18-year-old Bowmore Lunar New Year Limited Edition exclusively to global travel retail across Asia for a second year in a row. “Lunar New Year and journeys are inextricably linked – as millions around the world embark on a journey home to be reunited with loved ones. We wanted to make sure that shoppers could find in Bowmore the perfect match and the perfect gift for these celebrations.” Bottled at a strength of 43% ABV, Bowmore Lunar New Year offers aromas of rich dark chocolate, treacle toffee and date oil. Notes of bitter-sweet orange peel and peat-smoke roasted coffee can be found on the palate, before a velvet mocha and macadamia nut chocolate finish. The bottle is presented in an illustrated box that is said to focus on ‘reunions’ and align with what the Lunar New Year symbolises. The design includes an illustration of the Bowmore distillery sitting atop a swell of waves, with key elements such as barley, casks, and peat smoke all representing the features that define Bowmore whisky. Furthermore, the box features depictions of the water rabbit, in a nod the lunar calendar’s Year of the Rabbit. The design takes inspiration from traditional brushstrokes of Chinese paintings with a focus on flow and fluidity. Bowmore Lunar New Year is available exclusively in duty-free stores across China, Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia, for an RRP of US$145. This Lunar New Year is also being celebrated by brands including Rémy Martin and Ferrand Cognac.

Martell creates limited edition Cordon Bleu

Alice Brooker — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 09:54:06 +0000

Cognac house Martell has teamed up with artist Christoph Niemann to launch a limited edition bottle for travel retail.

Titled '100 Eaux-De-Vie In Every Drop', the new bottling was created for the Martell Cordon Bleu Collection. Niemann designed the Cognac bottle after visiting Maison Martell in Cognac, France, and experiencing the blending and tasting session with cellar master Christophe Valtaud. Niemann said: “My aim was to create a visual universe that conveyed the emotions of discovering the world of Cognac with Martell – an experience that can be shared wherever you are. “For me, it is really important that storytelling is relatable, personal and honest. The photos bring emotional texture, transposing my impressions so people instantly get it without having been there.” Niemann used a drop as a motif for the new collection, intended as a metaphor for the blend’s ‘signature taste’ crafted from ‘100 eaux-de-vie in every drop’. The gift box displays black-and-white photos of the Martell cellars and vineyards, which Niemann took himself during his visit to Cognac. Liya Zhang, vice-president of marketing, PR GTR, commented: “The Martell Cordon Bleu limited editions are always highly anticipated, and this year is no exception. "We’re excited to introduce this exclusive unique design, blending a timeless drink with a renowned contemporary artist, to travellers around the world for the holiday season.” The Martell Cordon Bleu Collection Christoph Niemann retails for RRP US$276 per one-litre bottle, and is available now in airports across Hainan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Malaysia, America and Australia. In December 2022, the brand announced a ‘first-of-its-kind’ trainer collaboration with Felisha 'Fe' Noel, founder of womenswear brand Fe Noel.

TFWA confirms Cannes exhibition dates

Melita Kiely — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 12:24:59 +0000

The Tax Free World Association (TFWA) has confirmed its 2023 programme of events – including the return of the Cannes exhibition in October.

The TFWA World Exhibition and Conference will return to Cannes in France from 1-5 October. Last year’s duty free and travel retail event welcomed 6,000 delegates from around the world. The first in-person show in the TFWA’s calendar will be the TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference, which will take place at Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore from 7-11 May. For the first time in five years, the Asutil Conference (managed by TFWA) will return to South America. The show will take place from 7-8 June at the Hotel Hilton in Puerto Madero, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Erik Juul-Mortensen, TFWA president, said: “The industry’s response to our events last year was incredibly positive, and the enthusiasm to conduct business face-to-face and meet with friends and industry colleagues was very evident. “We are confident the range of events scheduled for 2023, both in-person and online, will provide a useful springboard for our members and business partners as they prepare for what promises to be a year of considerable opportunity for our industry.” The 2023 line-up of events will also include a full programme of webinars, which will be hosted on TFWA 365 throughout the year. The first online event is due to take place on 9 February and will focus on the outlook for travel during the first half of the year.

IAADFS announces 2023 keynote speaker

Georgie Collins — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 11:29:22 +0000

The International Association of Airport and Duty Free Stores (IAADFS) has named speaker and best-selling author Scott Miller as the opening keynote speaker for the 2023 Summit of the Americas.

The summit will take place from 16-19 April 2023 at the Palm Beach County Convention Centre in West Palm Beach, Florida. Miller is Franklin Covey’s senior advisor on thought leadership, and leads the strategy, development and publication of the firm’s best-selling books. He hosts the Franklin Covey-sponsored On Leadership With Scott Miller podcast, which is said to be the world’s largest and fastest-growing weekly leadership podcast, and C-Suite Conversations, which features interviews with the world’s top executives. “We are excited to have Scott Miller kicking off our conference programme for the 2023 Summit,” commented IAADFS president and CEO Michael Payne. “Scott’s presentations at other events have been very well received and we’re looking forward to his participation.” Prior to his roles as chief marketing officer and executive vice-president of business development, Miller served as general manager and client partner in Franklin Covey’s Chicago and UK offices. In addition to Miller’s keynote, the 2023 programme will include sessions in collaboration with content partners Airports Council International for North America and Latin America and the Caribbean, ARRA, and the Tax Free world Association (TFWA). The 2023 Summit will follow a different day pattern to previous years, with the Opening Reception to take place on Tuesday 18 April, before the exhibit booths and private rooms open to attendees from 19-21 April. More information about the 2023 Summit of the Americas can be found on the dedicated Summit website at 2023summitoftheamericas.org, including registration and housing details.

Sustainaholics secures BA listings

Georgie Collins — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 10:28:53 +0000

Travel retail specialist Sustainaholics has gained listings for a collection of sustainable spirits brands with the British Airways (BA) High Life Shop.

Sustainaholics was founded in 2022 to promote sustainability and ethical consumerism in the travel industry through a portfolio of independent sustainable brands. “Sustainaholics aims to make the discovery of innovative independent premium sustainable drinks brands a standard part of the travel experience,” said founder David Mills. “Most travellers are aware that travelling creates carbon emissions and want to see stakeholders take positive actions and create solutions-orientated partnerships.” The partnership with High Life Shop is the debut listing for the company’s sustainable drinks range, which includes brands such as Black Cow vodka, Two Drifters rum, Oxford Artisan Distillery, Cooper King and Hyke. All passengers travelling on the airline’s long- and short-haul international flights will now be able to pre-order these sustainable spirits brands at duty free prices for collection on board their flight. In addition, from 1 March passengers will also be available to purchase and consume the brands' miniatures on-board from the airline’s inflight menu. Mills continued: “By encouraging airports airlines and cruise ships with a serious commitment to sustainability to create positive new partnerships with authentic sustainable brands, we offer a coherent sustainability-led customer retail proposition that meets the growing customer demand for sustainability. “We’re so proud at Sustainaholics to launch the travel industry’s first sustainable spirits range with one of the most famous and prestigious airlines in the world, and couldn’t think of a better airline to partner with to share these amazing sustainable spirits with passengers all around the world.”

Hennessy Cognac store opens in Paris airport

Melita Kiely — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 12:03:15 +0000

Cognac brand Hennessy has opened its first dedicated store in Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport.

The space is part of an ongoing collaboration between Moët Hennessy, owner of Hennessy Cognac, Aéroports de Paris (Group ADP), Ladardère Travel Retail, and Extime Duty Free. Laurent Boillot, president and CEO of Maison Hennessy, noted: “Having explored the world for more than 250 years, we are committed to further enriching the travel experience by showcasing French savoir-faire in an environment dedicated entirely to the Hennessy art of Cognac-making that features some of the most celebrated blends ever produced.” The shop is located in Terminal 1, inside multi-brand shop Les Caves Particulières. The boutique offers a range of Hennessy bottlings, including Hennessy XO, VS, and VSOP. Rare expressions are also on sale, such as Hennessy Paradis, Richard Hennessy, and Edition Particulière. Furthermore, Hennessy Paradis and its leather accessories can be personalised with initials, characters or symbols. Each month, the shop will host mixology activations, allowing travellers to discover new cocktails based on Hennessy XO. Laurent Boidevezi, president of Moët Hennessy Asia Pacific, travel retail and private sales, said: “The Hennessy shop-in-shop at Paris-Charles de Gaulle T1 takes the customer experience to an unprecedented level, not only for the quality of its Cognacs, but because it materialises the house’s role as a worldwide ambassador for the French art de vivre.” The Hennessy shop-in-shop is open daily from 6am to 10.30pm (CET). Hennessy featured as one of The Spirits Business’ Cognac brands to watch in 2023. Here is an overview of the category and its outlook for the coming year.

Two Drifters Rum partners with BA

Georgie Collins — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 10:28:49 +0000

UK-based rum brand Two Drifters is now available to pre-purchase on all short- and long-haul British Airways flights via the High Life Shop.

The ‘world’s first’ carbon-negative rum distillery will also make the miniatures of its Two Drifters Signature available to purchase onboard in the Speedbird Café for passengers to enjoy during flights from March. Gemma Wakeham, Two Drifters CMO, said, “We’re thrilled to be working with a major British airline. It’s really exciting to have our premium, British-made rum onboard the planes of such an important airline, showing that great rum doesn’t have to cost the Earth.” The Signature Rum is barrel-aged in French oak ex-Madeira casks, which provides the rum with flavours of orange peel and muscovado sugar. For the ‘perfect serve’ at 30,000 feet, Two Drifters recommends adding a few ice cubes to enhance the flavours, or serving it with a mixer. In order to ensure that it maintains its goal for remaining carbon negative, the Devon-based Two Drifters Distillery has placed a carbon tax on its products through a partnership with Climeworks, which specialises in carbon removal through carbon-capturing technologies. The entirety of the Two Drifters distillery is run on 100% renewable energy in an effort to minimise the effect on the environment. Carbon-neutral packaging and a complete avoidance of plastic means it has less of a ‘tax’ to pay on the carbon it creates. Two Drifters Signature Rum is available now to pre-purchase from the High Life Shop for £33 (US$40) for a 700ml bottle. Airline partnerships have been big in 2022. Ready-to-drink cocktail brand Moth and Deadpool actor Ryan Reynolds' Aviation Gin both joined forces with British Airways, while Tom Savano and Black Cow Vodka partnered with Virgin Atlantic to offer in-flight cocktails.