The TFWA Duty Free Exhibition Centre
It felt like the whole drinks and cosmetics world had swept into Cannes, France this week for this annual TFWA global gathering. You can’t blame them the temperature was in the pleasant mid-20s, the place wasn’t over crowded as in summer, just a few locals walking their Afghan Hounds or toy dogs, or nudging along the odd pristine Bentley or Lamborghini
Sunset over the bay
The front is lined with every major designer label going from Chanel to Hermes & Gucci to Prada. I confess it’s a favourite destination of mine – this year staying at the Hotel Martinez, having lunch with clients at one of the beach restaurants and dinner in the port. It’s a great place to catch-up with some of La Fée’s clients from the far East to South America, and of course meeting new contacts – some even on the opulent yachts moored adjacent.
Old moors next to new in the harbour
As always the big industry guns were there, from the Bacardi team overlooking the bay to Diageo with a suite of rooms – and all else in between. It’s a great place to see what the industry is up to, as Duty Free is always a great showcase for what is happening next: La Fée Absinthe Blanche’s first client was World Duty Free (all main UK airports – Duty Free and Travel Retail) prior to any domestic or other export sales.
Only another 12 months until next time!