The Moodie Report

EUROPE

Copenhagen Airport names new low-cost pier

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 03/09/10

DENMARK. Copenhagen Airport’s new low-cost pier, scheduled to open on 31 October, has officially been named CPH Go. "The signal the new name is intended to give passengers is: more cheap tickets to more destinations," says the airport operator.

Kelkoo apologises to BAA over “inaccurate” pricing survey

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 03/09/10

UK. Price comparison website Kelkoo has apologised to BAA for inaccuracies in a recent pricing survey, in which it claimed that Heathrow Airport offered the lowest savings compared to the domestic market among a series of leading European airports. Kelkoo admits that the data it published about Heathrow was “inaccurate”.

Otto Ambagtsheer named The Moodie Report Personality of the Month for August

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 03/09/10

NETHERLANDS. Schiphol Group Managing Director Business Area Consumers Otto Ambagtsheer has been named The Moodie Report Personality of the Month for August, in association with The Dalmore Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Ambagtsheer and his commercial team led the drive to create the new Holland Boulevard concept at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which opened last week.

Rising spend per passenger lifts Aelia performance in first half

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 03/09/10

FRANCE/INTERNATIONAL. Aelia today reported sales of €305 million for H1 2010, up by +7% on a like-for-like basis on the same period last year. The figures were buoyed by a +8.9% rise in sales per passenger at the SDA joint venture with Aéroports de Paris, with non-EU sales per passenger up +10%. Read on for details, and comment from Aelia CEO Jean-Baptiste Morin.

Setur Duty Free unveils Zegna store at Istanbul Sabiha Gökcen

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 03/09/10

TURKEY. Leading travel retailer Setur Duty Free this week opened a new Ermenegildo Zegna boutique at its Istanbul Sabiha Gökcen International Airport (SGIA) operation. The 40sq m unit offers a range of fashion & accessories from the Zegna brand. Setur Duty Free will complete its strong fashion line-up at the airport with a Salvatore Ferragamo outlet next month.

International tourist arrivals grow +7% in first-half 2010

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 02/09/10

INTERNATIONAL. The first six months of 2010 saw international tourist arrivals grow by +7%, according to the August Interim Update of the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer. This result confirms the recovery trend which began in the last quarter of 2009, and is expected to continue in the second half of the year at a somewhat more moderate rate.

Red or Dead founder joins speaker line-up at ispyPLUS

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 02/09/10

UK. Wayne Hemingway, Founder of the Red or Dead fashion label, will be one of the keynote speakers at this year’s ispyPLUS inflight conference, the organisers have confirmed. The conference takes place on 15 September and runs alongside the key ISPY cabin crew event, which runs from 13 to 17 September.

Heathrow launches latest Travel Product Awards

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 01/09/10

UK. BAA today launched the Heathrow Travel Product Awards for 2010, which will recognise "the best travel accessories and gadgets" on offer at the airport. The awards will be decided by the British public, who are being encouraged to vote online for their favourite items. This year, 12 categories are being put to the public vote, including Travel Must-Have, Best Handbag, Top Travel Read and Best Travel Entertainment.

International passenger volumes soar at world’s airports in July

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 01/09/10

INTERNATIONAL. Passenger traffic at the world’s airports continued to rebound in July, according to the latest figures from Airports Council International (ACI). International passenger numbers surged by +9.5% year-on-year, with total traffic growing by +6.9%, a slower rate than in previous months. Asia Pacific and Latin America-Caribbean each posted impressive growth of +14% in the month.

Ryanair withdrawal deals sharp blow to Belfast City Airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 01/09/10

NORTHERN IRELAND. Ryanair has announced its withdrawal from operations at Belfast City Airport from 31 October, a move that will have severe implications for the airport’s business, including commercial. The carrier accounted for around one-third of total traffic at the airport in 2009, handling 800,000 passengers. Belfast City has just concluded a £6 million upgrade of its Departures areas, including new-look WDF and HMSHost outlets.

WDF launches first ever ‘WhiskyFest’ event at Scottish airports

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 01/09/10

UK. WDF has launched its first ‘Whiskyfest’ event, which runs across World Duty Free stores at Scottish airports for nine weeks from August to October this year. The retailer is highlighting the range of exclusive whiskies at its stores, and offering -20% off 40 of them, alongside a host of showcasing events from brand owners.

Aéroports de Paris posts strong first-half retail gains despite traffic decline

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 31/08/10

FRANCE. Aéroports de Paris today unveiled strong first-half growth in retail and services. Aéroports de Paris Chairman and CEO Pierre Graff said: “Traffic was severely disrupted in April by the eruption of the Icelandic volcano Eyjafjallajökull. Despite this, Aéroports de Paris Group’s results for the first half of 2010 are satisfying, due in particular to the increase in revenue per passenger achieved in shops within restricted areas.”

Higher retail spend lifts Schiphol Group commercial activities

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 30/08/10

NETHERLANDS. Schiphol Group has reported a solid +2.8% year-on-year rise in revenues from its Consumers Business Area in H1 2010, to €137.6 million. Crucially, average spend in the See Buy Fly shops rose by +3.4% to €15.74 in the half. The division’s revenues were hit to the tune of €2.7 million by the volcanic ash cloud in April and May. Revenue for the group as a whole hit €545 million in the half, down by -1.5%, though profits grew sharply.

International passenger demand soars in July, reports IATA

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 30/08/10

INTERNATIONAL. International passenger demand surged by +9.2% year-on-year in July (measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometres), according to the latest figures from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Crucially, July global passenger traffic was +3% higher than the pre-crisis levels of early 2008. IATA chief Giovanni Bisignani says: “Improving demand is an important component of the recovery. But it must translate to the bottom line."

Sales down but first-half profits up at Hellenic Duty Free Shops

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 30/08/10

GREECE. Hellenic Duty Free Shops (HDFS) today unveiled a +9.7% rise in pre-tax profits to €21.6 million for its travel retail operations for the first half of 2010. This was despite a -8.9% drop in sales to €93 million. HDFS General Director George Velentzas said: “The parent HDFS [i.e. the travel retail operations –Ed]… significantly increased its profitability despite the increase in sales, still remaining the most profitable company in the travel retail industry.”

Burberry expands Heathrow presence with new T5 boutique

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 27/08/10

UK. Luxury fashion brand Burberry has opened a new store at London Heathrow Airport Terminal 5. The 847sq ft store offers a wide range of accessories including bags, small leathergoods, timepieces, sunglasses as well as ready-to-wear items. “The store will strengthen the luxury fashion offering at Heathrow and deliver on our promise of providing passengers with an exciting and engaging shopping experience,” said Heathrow Retail Concessions Director Brian Woodhead.

Dubai International Airport passenger traffic surges to record high

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 27/08/10

UAE. Dubai International Airport has reported record passenger numbers for July, with volumes passing 4 million for the first time ever. The Middle Eastern hub handled 4.3 million passengers in the month, up by +14.3% on July 2009, with the strongest growth coming from Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific and Russia & CIS routes. Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths says: “This is an important milestone that reflects the consistent growth we have seen over the past years."

Lacoste watches take centre stage at Zürich with Nuance

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 27/08/10

SWITZERLAND. Lacoste Watches, part of the Movado/MGI Group, are taking centre stage in a Fashion Week animation at Zürich Airport, organised by Nuance. The one-month promotion, located on the first floor opposite the Chocolate Tax Free shop, centres on the launch of the new, fashion-forward Goa collection.

Teacher’s introduces brand new look in travel retail

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 27/08/10

INTERNATIONAL. Teacher’s whisky is refreshing its look in the travel retail sector with the launch of new packaging which emphasises the high malt content of the blended Scotch. “Our new pack maintains the very distinct and recognisable trademark shape of Teacher’s but is now bolder and sleeker,” said Beam Global Spirits & Wine Director for European Travel Retail Gareth Brown.

Ambitious Holland Boulevard lends strong Dutch Sense of Place

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 26/08/10

NETHERLANDS. Schiphol Group yesterday unveiled the Holland Boulevard, a high-class Dutch-themed retail, food & beverage, lounge and entertainment zone between piers E and F at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The area features the world’s first library at an airport, a unit celebrating the history of the Bols brand, a revamped museum store, massage, relaxation and kids’ play areas, plus an impressive Dutch Kitchen from HMSHost. The Moodie Report was on hand for the opening.

Aéroports de Paris invites passengers to blog the perfect airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 25/08/10

FRANCE. Aéroports de Paris (AdP) is aiming to improve service quality at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport through passenger interaction following the introduction of its 'Dites-nous' (tell us about it) web-forum. From 25 August AdP will invite its customers to blog about their ideas for the perfect airport on its new site: www.ditesnous.fr.

Bord Bia to introduce Irish seafood brand Cashelmara in Cannes

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 25/08/10

IRELAND. Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, returns to the TFWA World Exhibition this year as an umbrella stand for six Irish confectionery, seafood and drink companies (Stand number: Mediterranean Village N17). This year the stand will include first time exhibitor Atlanfish, showcasing a range of premium Irish shellfish and crustacean products under its Cashelmara brand.

London Heathrow Airport toasts the best of British

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 25/08/10

UK. Passengers flying through Heathrow are to be treated to the 'best bites of Britain' to mark the airport’s first British Food Fortnight. From 26 August to 12 September, more than 20 restaurants, bars and cafés across all the airport’s terminals will be offering some of the nation’s favourite treats and tipples to provide passengers with a quintessential taste of Britain.

Picture Gallery: Brown-Forman brings barrels of art to DFS

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 25/08/10

INTERNATIONAL. Brown-Forman has chosen a unique way to mark the 50th anniversary of DFS as various artists turned Jack Daniel’s barrels into pieces of art. Each will be sold to benefit industry charity Hand in Hand for Haiti. Here we present an extended Picture Gallery of the completed works as they will appear on display at DFS stores in seven airports.

ATÜ Duty Free maintains expansion at key airports as sales rebound

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 24/08/10

TURKEY. Turkey’s leading duty free retailer, ATÜ Duty Free, is pushing ahead with expansion at its key airport locations, and is aiming to hit 2008 sales levels in 2010, after a difficult 2009. The company has opened two new gate stores at Istanbul Atatürk International Airport, as well as further new outlets at Izmir Adnan Menderes and Ankara Esenboga airports.

Baltona names Michal Stempski to business development role

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 24/08/10

POLAND. Polish travel retailer and shipchandler Baltona, which was acquired by Indian travel retail group Flemingo earlier this year, has named Michal Stempski as Business Development Consultant. Stempski had worked for the Polish division of French travel retailer Aelia, and before that for Inflight Service.

Diageo, Gebr Heinemann and Budapest Airport align in Trinity unity

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 24/08/10

HUNGARY. Diageo Global Travel & Middle East, Gebr Heinemann and Budapest Airport recently partnered to create a major ‘Trinity’ activation at the Hungarian gateway around Johnnie Walker’s sponsorship of the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Formula 1 team, driving a +50% increase in sales of Johnnie Walker.

Heathrow Airport enters the Notting Hill Carnival spirit

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 24/08/10

UK. Heathrow Airport is preparing for this year’s Notting Hill Carnival by hosting an exclusive preview of the steel bands and performers in the Terminal 5 International Arrivals area. Passengers can also tour a pop-up exhibition by internationally celebrated carnival artist Carl Gabriel, which runs from 23 August for a week.

Letter to the Editor – Columnist hits out at Kelkoo pricing report

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 23/08/10

INTERNATIONAL. Long-time Philip Morris International duty free executive and occasional columnist for The Moodie Report Mick Dawidowicz has hit out at a recent Kelkoo survey that claimed to compare online and airport 'tax free' retail pricing in Europe. “Once again the industry is being defined by outside ‘observers’ or self-styled experts who know little or nothing about the business – and generally get it wrong, usually to the detriment of the industry,” he says in a hard-hitting reply. The Moodie Report invites further comment.

Picture Gallery: ARC 2010 in review

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 23/08/10

UK/INTERNATIONAL. Last month’s Airline Retail Conference (ARC), the first to be held since new organisers Ink Publishing took over the event, offered some useful pointers about the future direction of the rapidly changing inflight channel. We present a special Picture Gallery and a video capturing some of the highlights of the two-day event.

Heinemann Duty Free goes into overdrive at Hamburg

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 20/08/10

GERMANY. Heinemann Duty Free has placed a 1959 Porsche on display at its Hamburg Airport store – and is offering the two-seater car for sale to passengers. The retailer’s latest campaign, aimed at male shoppers, also includes fashion and fragrances, plus other motorsports memorabilia.

Record traffic at Sydney and Copenhagen buoys MAp Airports

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 20/08/10

INTERNATIONAL. Record passenger traffic at Sydney and Copenhagen airports buoyed MAp Airports’ core portfolio in the month of July. Sydney Airport traffic climbed by +9.4% year-on-year in July to 3.09 million passengers, while Copenhagen Airport traffic hit 2.21 million, up by +11.3% on last year. Read on for details.

WDF hosts surprise 'flash mobs’ to celebrate summer

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 20/08/10

UK. Travel retailer WDF gave passengers flying from Manchester and London Gatwick airports a surprise last week, in the form of an impromptu ‘flash mob’ event. “We really wanted to create a different and memorable event to celebrate the height of the summer holiday period which also entertained and involved our passengers,” explains WDF Head of Digital Marketing Sue Gosling.

Aldeasa launches first walk-through concept in Spain

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 19/08/10

SPAIN. Aldeasa has inaugurated two new stores, ‘The Shop’ and ‘The Express Shop’ at Barcelona El Prat Airport Terminal 2. Crucially, The Shop is the first walkthrough concept for AENA and Aldeasa at an airport in Spain, says the retailer. Now it plans to extend the concept to Madrid-Barajas and Alicante airports.

Gebr Heinemann captures two-year extension at Vienna Airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 19/08/10

AUSTRIA. Gebr Heinemann has gained a two-year extension to its existing duty free concession at Vienna International, airport group Flughafen Wien AG announced today. The award takes the retailer’s contract to the end of 2012, and at substantially better terms for the airport authority, according to Flughafen Wien.

Helsinki Airport opens new 24-hour children’s play area

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 19/08/10

FINLAND. Helsinki Airport has opened a new activity-oriented play area for pre-school age children in the area for long-haul flights. The play area is open 24 hours a day and comes equipped with high-quality and safe Lappset and Brio wooden toys and playthings.

Pierre Freyssinet departs Aeroboutique Inflight Retail

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 19/08/10

FRANCE. Pierre Freyssinet, Managing Director of Aeroboutique Inflight Retail and one of the most progressive and respected voices within the sector, is leaving Aelia’s inflight retail subsidiary after 12 years to pursue a new challenge. He will first assist new management in the transition process, he told The Moodie Report.

Setur Duty Free more than doubles first-half sales as new International Terminal fuels business

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 19/08/10

TURKEY. Setur Duty Free’s sales at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport have surged by +155% in the first half of 2010 compared to a year ago. The strong growth is underpinned by the move to a new International Terminal in November 2009, and by a doubling of passenger traffic. Read on for details, and for news of the next phase of openings at SGIA.

BAA Heathrow slams pricing survey as “misleading and incorrect”

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 18/08/10

UK. BAA Heathrow has slammed a survey from price comparison website Kelkoo that claimed it offered the lowest tax free savings compared to the domestic market among a series of leading European airports. BAA disputed the findings, saying the conclusions are “both misleading and incorrect.”

Gebr Heinemann deepens regional offer at Berlin’s airports

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 18/08/10

GERMANY. Gebr Heinemann is deepening its offer of regional products at Berlin’s key airports as it prepares for the opening of a new international airport serving the capital, which opens in June 2012. The company has just added a range of speciality Berlin pickles, which it says typify its drive to expand its destination offer.

Heathrow offers a taste of Britain with Harlequin restaurant

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 18/08/10

UK. Heathrow Airport says it is offering passengers a traditional taste of Britain with the opening of The Harlequin, an 80sq m alehouse and eatery in Terminal 1 Departures. The new concept has been devised by F&B partner The Restaurant Group to offer the airport’s international passengers a quintessentially British experience and menu.

Aéroports de Paris maintains long-haul traffic growth in July

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 17/08/10

FRANCE. Aéroports de Paris has posted a +3.1% year-on-year increase in passenger traffic for July, with Charles de Gaulle Airport handling 5.9 million passengers (+3.2%) and Orly Airport (+2.8%) 2.6 million. International traffic (excluding Europe) continued to shine as all market sectors except Latin America recorded growth, culminating in an overall +5.8% rise compared to July 2009.

Crippling BAA airport staff strike is averted

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 17/08/10

UK. “We are pleased that the basis of an agreement has been reached on pay, that is fair to staff but which also reflects the difficult economic climate.” In a short statement airport operator BAA welcomes the likely settlement of a pay dispute with airport staff that had threatened mass disruption over the all-important remaining Summer holiday period. The news will be warmly welcomed by the travel retail sector.

Heathrow celebrates veteran photographer in starry show

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 17/08/10

UK. Heathrow Airport is celebrating the career of the airport's longest-serving resident photographer Dennis Stone by hosting two exhibitions featuring the travels of some of the world's greatest stars. The exhibitions will showcase images from the book 'A Life At The Airport: A Heathrow Photographer' published by the airport operator.

Pricing study claims online retailers offer better value than tax free

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 17/08/10

EUROPE. According to a study by shopping comparison website Kelkoo, tax free goods across Europe's ten busiest airports are priced on average -6.2% cheaper than their equivalent in local high street stores (based on a sample of 22 selected products). But it also claims that online retailing offers even better savings. Read on for details of the price comparison survey. We invite reader comment on this story.

Strong speaker line-up announced for ispyPLUS Conference

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 17/08/10

UK/INTERNATIONAL. Travel Retail Training has announced its speaker line-up for the ispyPLUS inflight retail conference, which takes place on 15–17 September. The event runs alongside the key ISPY cabin crew event, which runs from 13-17 September.

Puig and Aldeasa unveil Carolina Herrera’s new 212 VIP fragrance with celebrity showcase

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 16/08/10

SPAIN. To celebrate Carolina Herrera’s 212 VIP fragrance, Spanish companies Puig and Aldeasa are giving passengers a taste of the New York-style celebrity glamour with their latest 'retailtainment' concept. Notes Aldeasa Commercial Director Eugenio Andrades: “We firmly believe that this newness and energetic activity in-store is what our customers really want to see."

Dublin Airport passenger traffic slips by -4% in July

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 13/08/10

IRELAND. Passenger numbers at Dublin Airport hit 2.03 million in July, a -4% decline on the same month last year, according to the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA). UK traffic dropped by -9% while transatlantic volumes dipped by -5% compared to July 2009. In the year to date, passenger traffic has fallen by -14%.

Proposed BAA ground staff strike set to hit travel retail sector hard

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 13/08/10

UK. "These sorts of strikes never achieve anything apart from damage: damage to business, damage to jobs, damage to the interests of tourists who want to come to visit Britain, or people who want to leave Britain and have a holiday overseas." British Prime Minister David Cameron hits out at proposed union action that threatens disruption at BAA airports this summer, and which would seriously affect travel retail.

The Loop at Dublin Airport launches ‘Big Pony’ Collection

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 13/08/10

IRELAND. What’s your passion? Sport, Seduction, Adventure or Style? Ralph Lauren and Dublin Airport retail complex The Loop are offering passengers the choice of four men’s fragrances, dubbed the ‘Big Pony’ Collection, at a temporary stand-alone store until 29 August. The collection takes inspiration from the designer’s Big Pony shirts embroidered with an oversize version of Ralph Lauren’s signature polo-player logo.

Aldeasa adds theatre at Málaga with Bacardi Mojito campaign

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 12/08/10

SPAIN. Aldeasa is inviting shoppers at Málaga Airport to try mixing a Bacardi Mojito as part of a month-long promotional and entertainment campaign. The new marketing activity forms part of Aldeasa’s ‘Shopping Experience’ initiative, which aims to enhance passengers' enjoyment at the airport and drive spending.

Dufry plots ambitious expansion in 2010

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 12/08/10

INTERNATIONAL. Dufry Group plans to open close to 20,000sq m of new retail space in 2010, covering 152 stores, CEO Julián Díaz told analysts after Thursday’s half-year results announcement. More than half of the stores will open in Q3 and Q4, with a strong contribution from Dufry’s Hudson acquisition. Díaz also reiterated the retailer’s desire to expand in emerging markets, with Russia, China and India of particular interest.

Hooters opens first ever airport outlet at Frankfurt

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 12/08/10

GERMANY. Hooters American Restaurant and Sportsbar has opened its first ever airport outlet at Frankfurt Airport Terminal 1. Fraport AG Executive Board Member Herbert Mai said: “Fraport is embarking on a major expansion of retail space and offerings to meet the needs of diverse customer groups and the growing traffic. With Hooters, we now have some 250 retail stores, restaurants and service outlets.”

King Power Thailand-led consortium acquires Leicester City FC

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 12/08/10

UK. An international consortium led by Aiyawatt Raksriaksorn of King Power International Group (Thailand) has acquired Leicester City Football Club. “I am passionate about football and I see in Leicester City a club with tremendous passion and potential; it has excellent management on and off the pitch and I am convinced that it has the right mix of ambition and realism to drive the team, and club, forward,” said Raksriaksorn.

Manchester ranks as world's leading airport Twitter feed

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 12/08/10

UK. Manchester Airport is the world’s number one airport Twitter feed, according to a new global survey by airport social media firm AirGate Solutions. “It’s fantastic to receive this recognition – during our recent experiences with snow and the volcanic ash cloud, Twitter became a vital channel,” says Manchester Airport’s Head of External Communications Russell Craig.

UK travel and tourism market maintains slow recovery

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 12/08/10

UK. “International visitor numbers in the UK continue to make the upward journey from what was a very depressed base, while UK travellers are also moving back to more recognisable travel habits post-recession,” says Barclays Corporate Head of Hospitality and Leisure Mike Saul in response to the latest Office for National Statistics Travel and Tourism figures, released today.

Virgin Atlantic Airways renews Tourvest inflight duty free contract

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 12/08/10

SOUTH AFRICA. Tourvest Duty Free announced today the renewal of its contract to manage the inflight duty free sales of Virgin Atlantic Airways until 2014. A delighted Tourvest Duty Free Chief Executive Officer Selwyn Grimsley said: “We are looking to provide Virgin Atlantic customers with an enhanced product, offering even more choices such as a range of inflight snacks to complement those already on offer."

ATÜ Duty Free executive strikes gold with Paco Rabanne

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 11/08/10

INTERNATIONAL. Tevfik Ilhan Çimencioglu, an executive for ATÜ Duty Free based at Istanbul Atatürk International Airport, has won a Paco Rabanne ‘golden hamper’ in The Moodie Report’s latest readers’ competition, organised in association with Puig Travel Retail. Tevfik Ilhan correctly named Ernest Hemingway as the famous great-grandfather of Lady Million advertising campaign model Dree.

Copenhagen Airport Shopping Centre revenues dip in first half

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 11/08/10

DENMARK. Shopping Centre revenues at Copenhagen Airports (including retail and food & beverage) fell by -6.4% year-on-year in the first six months, the group reported today. This was mainly due to a change in contract conditions and a temporary closing of two food & beverage units. Encouragingly, spend per passenger rose in the half, and duty free revenues also increased (by +7.5%) in the period.

Dufry posts double-digit revenue and profits growth in first half

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 11/08/10

INTERNATIONAL. “We are alert in respect to the uncertainties related to the global economic development but we remain optimistic because the travel retail industry has showed its resilience again. During the first half of 2010, we have seen good passenger growth and an increase in spend.''
Dufry CEO Julián Diaz reveals an improved and impressive set of first-half results showing double-digit revenue and profits growth.

STI and ASD Holdings create joint venture

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 11/08/10

UK. “Imagine the day when the sourcing, ordering, signing-in, storing, recording, signing out and re-ordering of seals and padlocks were a thing of the past. The cost of that resource has never been factored into the overall cost of securing duty free carts on a daily basis.” STI Director Paul Lacy signals a new joint venture that he believes offers a major breakthrough in airline and airport security for the duty free and related channels.

Zürich Airport maintains strong commercial growth in July

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 11/08/10

SWITZERLAND. Commercial activities at Zürich Airport maintained their robust performance in July as net sales to consumers from shops and restaurants climbed by +7.2% year-on-year to CHF44 million (US$41.5 million). Net sales per departing passenger increased by +1.3% over July 2009. Year-to-date commercial turnover is up by a healthy +5.7% against passenger traffic growth of +3.5%.

Aelia and sister company SGEL capture Alicante fashion concession

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 10/08/10

SPAIN. French travel retailer Aelia and sister company SGEL have captured a five-year fashion concession at Alicante Airport, which will open in March next year under the Aelia Retail España banner. The move is the partnership’s second contract in Spain's travel retail sector: in February the alliance won a fashion & accessories concession at Málaga Airport’s new T3, which is due to open later in 2010.

John Rimmer joins The Moodie Report amid strengthening of key management roles

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 10/08/10

INTERNATIONAL. John Rimmer is joining The Moodie Report as Executive Director – Business Development as part of a major strengthening of the company’s senior management team. Rimmer was formerly Deputy Director Business Development at leading French travel retailer Aelia. The new structure also sees strengthened roles for Deputy Publisher Dermot Davitt and Chief Operating Officer Bob Wilby.

King Power unveiled as Leicester City Football Club sponsor

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 10/08/10

UK. Leading duty free retailer King Power International Group (Thailand) has been unveiled as the new shirt sponsor of Leicester City Football Club for an initial three-year term. “Leicester City is an important strategic partner for us as we raise awareness of our brand in the UK and beyond,” says King Power Chairman Vichai Raksriaksorn.

Manchester Airports Group announces key management appointments

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 09/08/10

UK. Manchester Airports Group (MAG) has named Penny Coates as its new Chief Operating Officer and Andrew Harrison (currently Commercial Director) as the new Managing Director for Manchester Airport (effective 15 September). MAG Group CEO Geoff Muirhead said: “This move comes at a time of significant change for MAG and is a major opportunity for the business to strengthen our industry-leading position."

Strong July growth puts Berlin Airports on track for record traffic

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 09/08/10

GERMANY. Strong passenger growth of +10% year-on-year in July has put Berlin Airports on course for record annual traffic in 2010. The group, which operates Schoenefeld and Tegel airports in the capital, handled 2.16 million passengers in the month and 12.3 million in the first seven months, up by +4.4%.

Brown-Forman names Victor Hafström to key Nordic post

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 06/08/10

NORDIC REGION. Victor Hafström has been named Brown-Forman Duty Free Sales Promoter for the South-West Nordic region, effective 1 August, 2010. Hafström will be responsible for the Brown-Forman Nordic Travel Retail portfolio, which includes Jack Daniel’s, Southern Comfort, Finlandia Vodka, and Fetzer and Bonterra Wines.

Last chance to enter our Paco Rabanne readers' competition

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 06/08/10

INTERNATIONAL. Tuesday is the deadline for entries to The Moodie Report's latest readers' competition, which has already attracted strong interest. To mark the unveiling of the first ever Paco Rabanne cross-category pop-up store at London Heathrow T3, and the launch of the new Lady Million fragrance, Puig Travel Retail is offering The Moodie Report’s retailer and airport company readers the chance to win a golden hamper of products from the Paco Rabanne brand.

Majorica appoints new travel retail executive

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 06/08/10

SPAIN. Spanish pearl and jewellery group Majorica has named Mercedes Marsol as Export & Travel Retail Manager. She is based in the group's headquarters in Barcelona and reports directly to Managing Director Marc Antoine Breuil.

EYE survey underlines value of on-airport technology advertising

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 05/08/10

UK. Airport media specialist EYE has revealed the results of a survey into air passengers and their relationship with technology. Many passengers are prepared to spend heavily on technology and are keen to find out more about technology products at the airport, the poll found. "The results reinforce the effectiveness of the airport environment as a medium for advertisers from this product category,” said Eye Fly UK General Manger John Rankin.

Heathrow, Paris, Hong Kong lead international passenger rankings

The Moodie Report - 05/08/10

INTERNATIONAL. London Heathrow, Paris Charles de Gaulle and Hong Kong International were the top three airports ranked by international passenger numbers in 2009. That’s according to Airports Council International’s (ACI) World Airport Traffic Report for the year, just released. The top-ranked airport by total passengers numbers was Atlanta (mainly domestic US), while a remarkable 17 of the 25 fastest growing airports were in China.

Retail revenue growth buoys Fraport Group in first half of 2010

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 05/08/10

GERMANY. Fraport Group’s Retail & Real Estate division posted a solid +4.3% rise in first-half revenue, to €186 million, the company reported today. “Our Frankfurt home base generated net retail revenue per passenger of more than three Euros for the first time despite continuing difficult economic times," said group Chairman Dr Stefan Schulte. Frankfurt Airport’s revenue from shopping hit €41.9 million in the half, from €40.5 million a year ago.

Aldeasa adds flourish of Spanish theatre to key airport locations

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 04/08/10

SPAIN. Aldeasa is aiming to inject a flavour of Spain to key airport locations over the summer months with live music and dance performances. Flamenco dancers and a saxophonist will give live performances at Barcelona and Málaga airport shops, and bailaores will perform dances at Alicante and Palma de Mallorca.

European airport traffic makes ‘timid’ recovery in first half

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 04/08/10

EUROPE. Passenger traffic at Europe’s airports grew by +2.4% year-on-year in H1 2010, according to figures from Airports Council International Europe. The business continues to make what the organisation calls a “timid recovery” from the economic crisis of 2009. Comparisons with the same period in 2008 reveal a fall of -8.4% in passenger volumes.

Jameson launches 'Experience Our World' campaign in Dublin

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 04/08/10

IRELAND. Dublin Airport is the latest venue to host Jameson’s 'Experience Our World' travel retail promotion. A specially constructed pop-up shop, featuring touch-screen technology, is located in Terminal 1. The campaign activation promises to "engage passengers through an interactive and enjoyable experience,” said Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard Senior Regional Manager Travel Retail Michael Cunningham.

Collezioni set to open Dorothy Perkins at Glasgow Airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 03/08/10

UK. McArthurGlen Luxury Retail has named Dorothy Perkins as the first store to open under its latest Collezioni concept at Glasgow Airport. The brand, which will occupy 2,000sq ft of retail space in the airport’s Departures lounge, is "a solid and affordably stylish anchor for the Collezioni presence" at Glasgow, says McArthurGlen Luxury Retail Chairman Brian Collie.

Copenhagen Airport broadens retail range with new Pandora store

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 03/08/10

DENMARK. Copenhagen Airport has opened a Pandora concept store as part of its strategy to offer greater price differentiation and more affordable brands. “Jewellery and accessories are very much ‘in’ at the moment and in high demand with passengers,” says Copenhagen Airports Vice President of Sales Carsten Nørland, noting that there is much "untapped potential" in the category.

Global passenger traffic maintains growth momentum in June

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 03/08/10

INTERNATIONAL. Passenger traffic at the world’s airports climbed by +8% year-on-year in June, maintaining the strong momentum of recent months, Airports Council International (ACI) has reported. International passenger growth stood at a healthy +10.8% with domestic traffic growing by +6.1%. First-half results also showed robust growth, with overall traffic up by +5.9%.

Win a Paco Rabanne golden hamper in our readers’ competition

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 03/08/10

INTERNATIONAL. To mark the unveiling of the first ever Paco Rabanne cross-category pop-up store at London Heathrow T3, and the launch of the new Lady Million fragrance, Puig Travel Retail is offering The Moodie Report’s retailer and airport company readers the chance to win a golden hamper of products from the Paco Rabanne brand.

Yves Saint Laurent hails ‘Wherever.Forever’ animation

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 03/08/10

YSL wherever.forever INTERNATIONAL. L’Oréal Luxury Products Travel Retail Europe, Middle East & Africa has created a new fragrance animation for Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) called “Wherever.Forever”. The event, which began in May and will run until the end of August in key European hubs such as Paris CDG, London Heathrow, Munich, Istanbul and Helsinki, aims to allow travellers to discover – or re-discover – YSL’s flagship fragrances.

Autogrill beats disruptions with sound revenue and profits growth

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 30/07/10

ITALY/INTERNATIONAL. International travel retail-to-catering giant Autogrill today posted a +5.4% increase in first-half consolidated revenues to €2,800.3 million (+4.2% at comparable rates). Consolidated EBITDA reached €265.7 million, +3.5% on the first half of 2009 (+2.3% at comparable rates).

Black Tot rum offers a taste of history with Last Consignment

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 30/07/10

UK. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of Black Tot Day, Speciality Drinks Ltd this week launched Black Tot Last Consignment rum onboard HMS Belfast, the last remaining stocks of the original Royal Naval rum from 1970. “Black Tot has a true sense of heritage that we feel will appeal to travellers in duty free. It has over 300 years of British Naval history behind it adding to the allure for the consumer,” said Speciality Drinks Ltd Founder Sukhinder Singh.

Healthy per passenger figures buoy Brussels Airport in H1

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 30/07/10

BELGIUM. Brussels Airport retail revenues climbed by +2% year-on-year in the first half of 2010, to €22.3 million. Encouragingly, retail revenue per passenger rose by +4.8% in the half, reflecting the increasing proportion of non-EU traffic, as well as strong food & beverage revenues from a series of new airside concepts.

In Memoriam: Michael Wynne

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 29/07/10

UK. It is with regret that we report the death of well-known and respected industry figure Michael Wynne, who passed away on Saturday, following an accident at his home. Wynne was owner of UK travel retail agency Pinemesh Management.

International passenger demand leaps by double digits in June

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 29/07/10

INTERNATIONAL. International passenger demand among the world’s airlines climbed by +11.9% year-on-year in June, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has reported. “There is no indication that the recovery will stall soon,” said IATA CEO Giovanni Bisignani. “But, with government stimulus packages tailing off and restocking largely completed, we expect some slowing over the months ahead.”

Police links up with WDF in 'Contentainment' drive

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 29/07/10

UK. Sunglasses brand Police is using WDF’s Contentainment digital media concept to engage with passengers this summer. To celebrate the launch of the movie ‘The Expendables’, bespoke digital content is being streamed on WDF’s Contentainment video walls in its stores at Heathrow T5, Gatwick South, Manchester, Glasgow, Jersey, Edinburgh, Birmingham and Bristol from 14 July to 24 August. And sales of the brand have already risen sharply two weeks into the campaign, says WDF.

BAA (SP) unveils robust retail results for Heathrow and Stansted

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 28/07/10

UK. BAA (SP), owner of Heathrow and Stansted airports, today announced a strong retail performance for the first six months. Net retail income rose by +10.2% despite the severe impact of the volcanic ash crisis and industrial action by BA cabin crew. BAA Chief Executive Colin Matthews said: "Heathrow is performing particularly well and achieved its highest-ever passenger satisfaction ratings."

Bologna Airport issues major retail tender

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 28/07/10

ITALY. Bologna Airport has issued a major retail tender covering duty free and duty paid stores in the Schengen and non-Schengen areas of the terminal. The contract will run for ten years from January 2011, with submissions due by 31 August.

Harold Gittelmon to run marathon in aid of cancer charity

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 28/07/10

INTERNATIONAL. Harold Gittelmon, Managing Director of Harding Brothers Retail, is to run the New York Marathon on November 7 in aid of The Magic Wand Foundation, a special fund within the Willow Foundation that grants special days to adults with terminal cancer. Gittelmon aims to raise at least £10,000 for the charity, and is appealing to the travel retail industry for support.

HMSHost unveils powerful Sense of Place at Belfast City Airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 28/07/10

NORTHERN IRELAND. HMSHost has unveiled a striking new food & beverage offer at Belfast City Airport – with a strong Sense of Place in its Harvest Market and Bushmills Bar concepts, plus a first Irish outlet for Espression by Lavazza. The Moodie Report Deputy Publisher Dermot Davitt attended the launch on Tuesday to bring you comment, reaction and a photo gallery of the new areas.

Puig and WDF team up in pioneering cross-category pop-up store

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 28/07/10

UK. Puig Travel Retail and WDF have aunched the world’s first Paco Rabanne cross-category pop-up shop at Heathrow Airport T3. The store will open for an initial three months, coinciding with the summer season. The 32sq m Paco Rabanne ‘universe’ houses fragrances, watches and sunglasses from the brand’s portfolio. WDF Commercial Director Jo O’Connor hails the project, saying it has delivered “great theatre”.

Riga Airport issues tender for management of commercial space

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 28/07/10

LATVIA. Riga International Airport has issued a tender for a master concessionaire to oversee management of all commercial spaces at the airport. The contract will run for ten years and will cover duty free, speciality retail, food & beverage, currency exchange, car rental, business lounges, banking and other services.

Ferrero stages a Kinder-fest at Munich Airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 27/07/10

GERMANY. Ferrero's Kinder chocolate brand was in the spotlight at Munich Airport in a month-long shop-in-shop promotion. Kinderino, the Kinder Surprise egg-shaped mascot, carried a selection of national flags, and customers could choose a Kinderino with the flag of the country they supported. Ferrero also offered a branded shoulder-bag as a gift to customers spending more than €15 on chocolates.

HMSHost unveils new Harvest Market at Belfast City Airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 27/07/10

UK. Retail and dining specialist HMSHost today announces the opening of the Harvest Market restaurant at Belfast City Airport, inspired by the city’s popular local market. “We are confident that the extensive new food range and the new unique atmosphere, dedicated to providing a true sense of place, will be more than appealing to the 11,000 passengers per day that we welcome at the airport,” said the airport’s Business Development Director Katy Best.

LVMH posts strong first half; retail division records healthy growth

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 27/07/10

FRANCE. LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the world’s leading luxury products group, recorded revenue of €9.1 billion in the first half of 2010, up +16%, boosted by double-digit organic revenue growth in all business units. The Selective Distribution division, which includes leading travel retailer DFS, saw a +14% upswing in first-half revenue and recorded growth of +36% in profit from recurring operations.

CTC-ARI Airports launches campaign around Commandaria wine

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 26/07/10

CYPRUS. CTC-ARI Airports has launched a campaign to celebrate one of Cyprus’s unique local products, Commandaria sweet wine. The promotion includes tastings at Larnaka International Airport, where over 100,000 passengers can sample the product until 1 August. CTC-ARI Airports is a strong supporter of Cypriot goods through its acclaimed Kypriaka destination merchandise concept.

Glasgow Airport names Francois Bourienne as Commercial Director

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 26/07/10

UK. BAA has named Francois Bourienne as Commercial Director for Glasgow Airport, responsible for growing all aeronautical and non-aeronautical revenue streams including retail, property and car parking. Bourienne joins from The Nuance Group, where has he worked for the past four years, based at the retailer's European headquarters in Zürich.

Alain Maingreaud is named Managing Director at TFWA

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 23/07/10

FRANCE. Tax Free World Association (TFWA) has named Alain Maingreaud as Managing Director with effect from 1 August 2010. The appointment follows the departure in April of Olivier Charriaud, who was CEO. Maingreaud has been the Exhibitions & Business Development Director of the association since 2007, and before that he was Commercial Director.

Euro remains key currency for UK travellers, says Amex

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 23/07/10

UK/INTERNATIONAL. The Euro remained the most popular currency among UK travellers in H1 2010, according to the latest Currency Index published by American Express Global Foreign Exchange Services. This, coupled with an increase in demand for the Hungarian Forint, Danish Krone and Croatian Kuna, points to a return in popularity for continental short breaks, American Express claims.

Heathrow aims to engage passengers with sports promotion

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 23/07/10

UK. BAA Heathrow has teamed up with participatory arts organisation Sing London to build interest in the sport of table tennis, or ping-pong, just two years before London hosts the Olympic Games. A ping-pong table has been installed in the Departures area of Terminal 3 where it will remain for a month as part of the airport’s efforts to promote the best of British sport and culture.

B&S Paul Global unveils new-look military duty free store

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 22/07/10

NETHERLANDS. Leading travel retailer and wholesaler B&S Paul Global has unveiled a radically expanded and enhanced duty free store serving NATO staff at the Allied Joint Force Command base at Brunssum in the Netherlands. The 800sq m store includes a major emphasis on beauty and luxury goods, says the company. Read on for details, and for a special picture gallery.

JCDecaux Airport retains contract at London Luton

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 22/07/10

jcdecaux luton UK. JCDecaux Airport has confirmed today that it has retained the outdoor advertising contract for London Luton Airport. The five-year contract with London Luton Airport Operations was awarded following a competitive tender. JCDecaux Airport has operated advertising at London Luton since 2000.

SSP wins contract to run Burger King outlets at Alicante Airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 21/07/10

SPAIN. SSP has signed an eight-year deal to run two new Burger King outlets at Alicante Airport’s new third terminal. Scheduled to open by April 2011, the two restaurants will account for about a quarter of the catering area at the facility and will occupy nearly 1,000sq m of the 4,000sq m dedicated to food & beverage. They are expected to serve a total of 4,000 passengers per day.

Stefanel shares continue to plunge

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 21/07/10

ITALY. Shares in The Nuance Group’s co-parent company Stefanel plunged again yesterday, maintaining their dramatic decline of recent days. The retail-to-apparel group’s price fell by almost -21% to €1.67, following successive daily declines of -36% and -19.9%, raising further speculation about the future of the company’s interest in Nuance. UPDATE: Stock falls -36% on Wednesday and by -35.95% on Thursday to 52-week low of €0.69.

Áreas expands its Spanish footprint at Alicante International Airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 20/07/10

SPAIN. Áreas has been awarded the management of 12 establishments (nine restaurants and three shops) at Alicante International Airport. "This new contract is a significant culmination of the presence of Áreas in Spanish airports and it bolsters our leadership as a provider of comprehensive services to travellers on the move,” said Áreas President Peter Fontana.

Munich Airport operator FMG lands major Oman contract

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 20/07/10

OMAN. FMG, the operator of Munich Airport, has been awarded a new four-and-a-half year contract for the commissioning, relocation and operation of two airports in the Sultanate of Oman. FMG emerged with the winning bid from a large field of competitors to gain the largest consulting contract in the company's history.

Spanish passenger traffic rises +3.2% in June

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 20/07/10

SPAIN. Passenger traffic at Spanish airports rose +3.2% in June, driven by solid increases at Madrid Barajas (+4.3%), Barcelona El Prat (+5.1%), Gran Canaria (+10.7%), Lanzarote (+12.1%) and Bilbao (+10.1%). The modest increases need to be viewed, however, in the context of a very poor year in 2009.

Dixons Travel to open three stores at Copenhagen Kastrup Airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 19/07/10

DENMARK. Dixons Travel is to open two new stores at Copenhagen Airport in late August, followed by a third later in the year. The stores will be the first of their kind in Denmark. “The new Dixons Travel brand will give Copenhagen Airport a leading edge in electronics at competitive prices," says the airport's Vice President Sales Carsten Nørland.

Dublin Airport passenger traffic falls by double digits in first half

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 19/07/10

IRELAND. Dublin Airport handled just under 8.5 million passengers in the first six months of the year, a -16% decline over the same period last year, Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) reports. The airport continues to grapple with the impact of the deterioration in the Irish economy in particular. June traffic fell by -6%, aided partly by the impact of the summer season.

Long-haul traffic buoys Parisian passenger growth in June

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 19/07/10

FRANCE. Aéroports de Paris passenger traffic climbed by a solid +2.3% year-on-year in June to 7.5 million, the group has reported. Some 5.2 million passengers travelled through Paris Charles de Gaulle (+2.5%) with 2.3 million at Paris Orly (+1.7%). Encouragingly from a travel retail viewpoint, international traffic (excluding Europe) outstripped this rate of growth, rising by +5.1%.

Asia Pacific set to drive global airline traffic growth, says ICAO

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 16/07/10

INTERNATIONAL. Scheduled airline passenger traffic will leap by +6.4% year-on-year in 2010, with Asia Pacific taking a lead role, according to the latest report by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The figures, which are measured in passenger-kilometres performed (PKPs), compare to a decline of -2% in 2009.

Ballantine's leaves an impression on World Duty Free customers

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 16/07/10

UK. A World Duty Free customer has won a VIP trip to watch The Open Championship in Scotland, thanks to a competition held by Ballantine’s Scotch whisky. The ‘Guess the Number of Tees in the Box’ competition ran in the World Duty Free store in London Heathrow T3 throughout June, alongside other promotional activities.

Bullish Boeing forecasts strong aircraft demand in next 20 years

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 16/07/10

INTERNATIONAL. Leading aircraft manufacturer Boeing forecasts a US$3.6 trillion market for new commercial aeroplanes over the next 20 years as world economies rebound and demand for new and replacement aircraft spurs growth. Asia Pacific, with China leading the way, will play a major role in driving growth, according to the Boeing 2010 Current Market Outlook.

Entries flood in for inaugural Airport Food & Beverage Awards

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 15/07/10

INTERNATIONAL. Entries are flooding in for the first-ever Airport Food & Beverage Awards, to be held at Manchester Airport on 23–25 January 2011. “We’re encouraged by the thought that has gone into many of the entries, which underline the momentum – and the trends – behind the airport food & beverage sector,” says Convenor of Judges David King.

Gebr Heinemann continues roll-out of new retail identity with latest store at Bratislava Airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 15/07/10

SLOVAKIA. Gebr Heinemann this week unveiled a new, enlarged travel retail store at Bratislava Airport under the Heinemann Duty Free brand name. Among the highlights is a specially designed Regionals zone, featuring Slovak spirits, liqueurs, wafers, chocolates and gifts. The Hamburg-based travel retailer has operated at the airport since 2007.

Heathrow Retail Academy wins corporate responsibility award

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 15/07/10

UK. Heathrow Retail Academy has won the National Big Tick award for its contribution to the local community. Presented by Business in the Community, the award recognises the academy’s efforts in helping local school pupils understand more about careers within the airport’s retail operation, giving unemployed residents from neighbouring communities the skills to access airport jobs and allowing employees to acquire qualifications once in work.

Robust long-haul traffic buoys London Gatwick Airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 15/07/10

UK. Passenger traffic at London Gatwick Airport slipped marginally (-0.8%) in June to 3.04 million, mainly as a result of capacity reductions in the North Atlantic and Irish markets. Encouragingly, traffic on long-haul routes (excluding North Atlantic) rose by a solid +6.2% year-on-year. Gatwick’s biggest markets, European scheduled and European charter, remained static.

Aldeasa adds retail theatre to Málaga Airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 14/07/10

SPAIN. Leading travel retailer Aldeasa in partnership with the Ron Brugal rum brand has launched a series of live dance shows and cocktail tasting sessions at Málaga Airport, which will run until 1 August. The retailer wants to create a Caribbean ambience in its stores. These are the latest in a series of in-store events that aim to capture passengers' attention and drive footfall.

Copenhagen Airport passenger numbers climb sharply in June

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 14/07/10

DENMARK. Passenger numbers at Copenhagen Airport climbed by +9.3% year-on-year in June, to 2.09 million. The figure was just 5,000 down on the all-time record for the month, which was set in 2008. Year-to-date passenger growth stands at +5.7%.

BAA Heathrow rewards World Duty Free staff for innovation

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 13/07/10

UK. In a major accolade for the business, World Duty Free has been awarded first place in BAA Heathrow’s new Eureka! 2010 retail innovation incentive scheme. Launched this year, the award recognises innovative thinking from the airport's business partners, and their efforts to improve the passenger experience at the UK hub. WDF staff won the award for a major Chinese New Year promotion, which lifted spend per person by +35%.

Ballantine’s launches new-look prestige range in travel retail

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 13/07/10

INTERNATIONAL. Pernod Ricard-owned Scotch whisky brand Ballantine’s has unveiled a fresh new look for its prestige range, which will be unveiled first in duty free in Asia Pacific. “The new look embraces a combination of luxury design elements, in a move to increase on-shelf impact and consumer appeal," said Pernod Ricard.

Munich Airport posts ‘dynamic gains’ in June passenger traffic

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 13/07/10

GERMANY. Passenger traffic at Munich Airport climbed by a healthy +12% year-on-year in June to 3.2 million, and by +3% in H1 2010 to 15.8 million. Long-haul traffic has been critical to driving growth, with a +12% surge in the first half. A buoyant company CEO Michael Kerkloh said: "The negative trend is clearly at an end, and Munich Airport is again posting dynamic gains."

Virginie Marquet joins José Cuervo Group in senior role

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 13/07/10

MEXICO/FRANCE. Experienced duty free executive Virginie Marquet has joined José Cuervo Group in a senior role, where she is responsible for European duty free and the Middle East markets, as well as managing the company's business in France.

Zürich Airport posts strong commercial performance in June

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 13/07/10

SWITZERLAND. "The willingness to travel and to spend is back," says Zürich Airport Chief Commercial Officer Peter Eriksson after the airport posted a robust set of commercial results for June. Net sales to consumers from retail and food & beverage posted an encouraging +7.8% increase year-on-year, while sales per departing passenger climbed by +4.5%.

BAA passenger traffic slips back in June

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 12/07/10

UK. BAA's UK airports handled 9.5 million passengers in June, a drop of -1.7% on June 2009. Volumes were sharply affected by British Airways cabin crew industrial action at the start of the month, with London Stansted and the Scottish airports all showing declines, and Heathrow posting a marginal +0.1% increase.

Favarger brings its local specialities to Swiss gateway

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 12/07/10

SWITZERLAND. Favarger is presenting its locally made chocolate specialities during a Made in Switzerland summer promotion hosted by Geneva Airport. Travellers are being invited to sample the brand's chocolate fondue recipes and Avelines.

Frankfurt Airport posts record traffic in June

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 12/07/10

GERMANY. Despite the combined impact of poor winter weather, strikes and the Icelandic ash cloud, passenger figures at Frankfurt Airport rose +7% in June and +1.4% in the first half. Fraport Executive Board Chairman Dr. Stefan Schulte said: "These numbers convincingly show that the finance and economic crisis has been overcome and that the aviation industry... is back on track to reaching and even exceeding the results of the pre-crisis years."

SSP set to roll out Montreux Jazz Café concept to Zürich Airport

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 12/07/10

SWITZERLAND. SSP’s third Montreux Jazz Café will open early next year at Zürich Airport, where the outlet will be located in the newly refurbished Pier B. SSP has already opened two Montreux Jazz Café units, one at Geneva Airport and the other at Sydney Airport’s new-look International Terminal (T1).

TAV Airports inaugurates new operation at Antalya Gazipaşa

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 12/07/10

TURKEY. TAV Airports Holding, Turkey’s leading airports group, today welcomed the first scheduled flight to its latest operation at Antalya Gazipaşa Airport. The group operates the airport under a 25-year lease. The terminal, which aims to service the growing demand for air travel in the south of the country, can handle 500,000 passengers a year.

TAV Airports posts double-digit surge in H1 passenger numbers

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 09/07/10

TURKEY. TAV Airports Holding, the leading Turkish airports group, has reported a +13% surge in first-half passengers across its national and international operations, to a total of 21.25 million. The figures were buoyed by a +15% surge in international passengers to 12.5 million – good news for the group’s ATÜ Duty Free joint venture.

Aelia rolls out new retail identity at Bordeaux and Lille

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 08/07/10

FRANCE. Leading French travel retailer Aelia has begun the roll-out of its new retail identity, Aelia Duty Free, to its latest stores at Bordeaux Mérignac and Lille Lesquin airports. The company’s updated retail brand, complete with new-look fascia, was first introduced across Aelia's stores at Nice Côte d'Azur Airport in May.

European passenger traffic posts encouraging growth in May

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 08/07/10

EUROPE. Passenger traffic at Europe’s airports posted an increase of +5.4% year-on-year in May, according to the latest figures from Airports Council International (ACI) Europe. Despite the encouraging climb in volumes, passenger numbers remain more than -10% below May 2008.

Lancôme tempts travellers with Summer Destination Must-Haves

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 08/07/10

FRANCE. L’Oréal Luxury Products Travel Retail Europe, Middle East and Africa has created a Summer Destination Travel Must-Haves animation to promote Lancôme’s four star products: the Eyes Virtuôse palette, the Ô d’Azur fragrance, Juicy Tubes lip gloss and Hydra Zen moisturiser. The event began running in key European airports earlier this month.

UK travel industry braced for short-term pain, says survey

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 08/07/10

UK. The UK travel industry is bracing itself for a year of relatively slow growth and subdued consumer confidence in 2011. That’s according to the annual Barclays Corporate Travel Forum Survey, just published. But the long-term prospects for the travel industry are brighter, notes the survey.

WDF launches Pandora pop-up shop at London Heathrow

Source: ©The Moodie Report - 08/07/10

UK. Leading travel retailer WDF has announced the arrival of its Pandora jewellery pop-up store in the Departures lounge of London Heathrow Terminal 5. Trading from 7 July to September, the boutique will stock the brand’s largest range of bracelets and charms available in the airport, alongside new collections.

Airport Food & Beverage Conference & Awards reset for January

INTERNATIONAL. The inaugural Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) Conference and Awards, to be run by The Moodie Report and hosted by Manchester Airport, has been rescheduled from September 2010 to 23–25 January 2011 due to unforeseen circumstances. The Moodie Report is delighted to announce that all its partners and speakers have agreed to the switch without hesitation.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol fuels World Cup football fever

NETHERLANDS. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is celebrating the FIFA World Cup, and the Dutch team's triumphant run through to the final, with a host of soccer-themed events. The Dutch operator has even placed its own specially designed football stadium in front of the airport entrance, seating 325 people. All airport users can watch the matches live on the Astrovision screen.

MAp Airports' Doug Benham to deliver ARC2010 keynote address

INTERNATIONAL. MAp Airports Head of Commercial Doug Benham will open the second day of the 2010 Airline Retail Conference, which will take place on 20 and 21 July at the Sofitel London Heathrow. Benham, a well-known strategist with three decades of experience, will discuss what is next for inflight and airport retailers.

TAV food & beverage division extends reach in Istanbul

TURKEY. BTA Airports Food and Beverage Company, the food & beverage arm of powerful Turkish airports group TAV Airports Holding, has added five new units to its portfolio at Istanbul Atatürk International Airport by taking over several key concessions from another F&B operator, USAS Ucak Servici.

Grolsch offers a perfect serve in flagship British Airways lounge

UK. SABMiller Travel Retail & Duty Free has unveiled a bespoke Grolsch bar in one of British Airways’ flagship lounges at Heathrow Airport Terminal 5, coinciding with some of the summer’s major sporting events, including the FIFA World Cup. Bar staff have been trained to serve customers the Dutch beer brand’s iconic Swingtop bottle using one of six opening techniques – Swingtop Chop, The Slice, Booty Pop, The Drop, Klik and Snatch.

WDF celebrates official launch of Edinburgh Airport store

UK. Following the completion by BAA of its new security area at Edinburgh Airport, WDF has officially launched its World Duty Free store. The 6,942sq ft shop is the centrepiece of the newly designed airport facilities and has been re-located to sit immediately opposite the entrance into the Departures lounge. A first for World Duty Free, it also features a new-look World of Whiskies store.

Gebr Heinemann takes its new retail identity to Salzburg Airport

AUSTRIA. Gebr Heinemann has unveiled its Heinemann Duty Free retail brand at the newly expanded and refurbished store at Salzburg Airport. The 415sq m store is the first outside Germany to feature the Heinemann Duty Free identity. A major highlight, says the retailer, is the installation of a new-look ‘Regionals’ zone for destination items, with a design theme that reflects Salzburg and its surrounding areas.

International passenger numbers surge by double digits in May

INTERNATIONAL. International passenger numbers climbed by +10.3% year-on-year at airports worldwide in May, according to the latest ACI figures. The best regional results were seen in Latin America/Caribbean (+32% international and +18% domestic) and Asia Pacific (+18.5% international and +11% domestic).

New Escape Lounge opens at Manchester Airport T1

UK. Manchester Airport today opened its new Escape Lounge in Terminal 1 to the public, with over 100,000 passengers expected to use the £1.7 million facility each year. “Our aim was to create a memorable experience for both our business and leisure passengers with great ambiance, service and food made to order,” said Commercial Director Andrew Harrison.

British Airways reviews in-house retail model but no decision made

UK. British Airways has clarified recent speculation about the fate of its inflight retail programme, currently run in-house. “We have invited a small number of suppliers to take us through what they can offer inflight retail,” the airline told The Moodie Report. “We are reviewing the information they have given us, but no decisions have been made.”

Diageo ‘Summer Spirit’ campaign set to drive footfall and sales

INTERNATIONAL. Diageo Global Travel & Middle East (GTME) has launched its global summer campaign, named ‘Take Your Summer Spirit With You’, which aims to increase footfall and sales in global travel retail. The campaign will run across the group’s core portfolio, and with key retail partners at airports, cruise ships and border stores.

Emerging markets drive global tourism recovery, says UNWTO

INTERNATIONAL. International tourist arrivals grew by +7% in the first four months of 2010, driven partly by a strong rise in numbers among emerging markets. That’s according to the latest issue of the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer. The Middle East posted growth of +33% in the period, with Asia Pacific also performing well (+12%), though the figures compare with a weak 2009.

SSP and partner open Street Food concept at Stockholm

SWEDEN. Leading food travel specialist SSP has teamed up with Swedish chef Marcus Samuelsson to open a new Street Food concept at Stockholm Arlanda Airport Terminal 5. The restaurant is the second Street Food unit to open in Sweden and offers visitors “fresh and wholesome street food from around the world”, the partners said.

‘The Age Matters’: Chivas Bros launches major consumer campaign

INTERNATIONAL. Chivas Brothers has launched a global consumer campaign to highlight the importance of age statements on Scotch whiskies. ‘The Age Matters’ campaign begins in travel retail before being rolled out across domestic markets. Chivas Brothers Chairman and CEO Christian Porta tells The Moodie Report about the importance of the campaign.

Dufri fashions new denim ‘Smart Bag’ range for travel retail

NETHERLANDS. Dufri International is introducing a new line of bags fashioned from authentic jean fabric. The Golla Denim range features two ‘Smart Bags’ for small electronic gadgets as well as four Laptop Bags.

Erik Thomsen named Vice President Commercial at TFWA

INTERNATIONAL. William Grant & Sons Regional Manager Europe – Global Travel Retail Erik Thomsen has been elected to the post of Vice President Commercial at TFWA. He replaces Donatienne Fontaines-Guillaume of P&G Prestige, who recently stepped down from the Management Committee after her appointment to a new role at LVMH.

Heathrow challenges the high street for value in new ad campaign

UK. BAA has launched a new advertising campaign that promotes the value on offer in shopping at London Heathrow Airport. ‘Heathrow shopping. The West End for less’ will target passengers from both the UK and abroad who fly from the London hub.

Hellenic Duty Free Shops structure streamlined in share transfer

GREECE. The boards of Folli Follie, Hellenic Duty Free Shops and Elmec Sport – all part of the wider Folli Follie Group – have moved to streamline the structure of the company through a transfer of shares between each. Currently, Folli Follie owns 56.78% of Hellenic Duty Free Shops, while Hellenic in turn owns 95.6% of Elmec Sport.

BAA (SP) releases robust financial forecast for full year

UK. BAA (SP) Limited, the owner of London Heathrow and Stansted airports, today published a bullish set of forecasts for the financial year to 31 December 2010, including a predicted healthy rise in gross retail income and in net retail income per passenger. Passenger numbers are expected to be 85.2 million at the two airports, down on the previous forecast due to the effects of the volcanic ash cloud and airline industrial action.

JCDecaux Airport names Nicola Armitage as Head of Agency Sales

UK. JCDecaux Airport has appointed Nicola Armitage as Head of Agency Sales, reporting to Sales Director Alan Sullivan. She will head a five-member team responsible for UK agency sales across a portfolio that includes Heathrow, London Luton, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen airports, Eurotunnel and the Heathrow Express.

Nuance introduces new electronics concept at Zürich

SWITZERLAND. The Nuance Group has launched its new ‘Sound & Vision’ electronics category concept at Zürich International Airport. Focusing on leading brands within the category through shop-in-shop executions, the new concept aims to create an easy-to-browse and engaging shop environment, says the retailer.

SSP becomes Platinum Sponsor for key F&B event

INTERNATIONAL. SSP has become a Platinum Sponsor of the inaugural Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) Conference and Awards, to be run by The Moodie Report and hosted by Manchester Airport on September 5–7. “As non-aeronautical revenues increase in significance, getting food & beverage right has never been more important,” says SSP CEO Andrew Lynch.

SSP rises high in survey of top UK businesses

UK. Food travel specialist SSP has been named the UK’s 23rd biggest private company in the latest Sunday Times Deloitte Top Track 100 survey. The survey, which is compiled by research group Fast Track, ranks companies by sales reported in their latest available accounts. SSP has moved up from 27th last year, and 30th in 2008.

Better dialogue with partners crucial to success – Tondato

ITALY. “The fact is, we either grow together or not at all.” In a message to Airports Council International Europe’s annual Assembly, Congress and Exhibition in Milan last week, Autogrill CEO Gianmario Tondato Da Ruos called for enhanced dialogue between airports and their retail and food & beverage partners, as well as better communication with travelling consumers.

Duty Free Paris launches Chinese fashion designer range

FRANCE. Duty Free Paris, the joint venture between The Nuance Group and Aéroports de Paris, has added the 'Hi Panda' brand, created by well-known Shanghai-based designer Ji-ji, at four of its fashion boutiques at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport.

Lagardère Services accelerates Asia Pacific drive

SINGAPORE. Lagardère Services says it is accelerating its drive to expand in Asia Pacific travel retail with the relocation of Executive Committee member Emmanuel de Place to Singapore. From this base he will manage and develop the Asian businesses and supervise the Pacific area, which will be managed and developed by Lagardère Services Asia Pacific CEO Scott Raisin.

Luxottica appoints Valerie Mills to key Americas role

INTERNATIONAL. Leading eyewear group Luxottica has named Valerie Mills as its Senior Director Travel Retail Americas. Mills replaces Marco Gadola who is returning to Europe with Luxottica Travel Retail.

Online pre-registration opens for 2010 TFWA World Exhibition

INTERNATIONAL. Pre-registration for the TFWA World Exhibition opened on 21 June. For the first time online registration at www.tfwa.com completely replaces registration by mail. The annual event, now in its 26th year, will be staged at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in Cannes from 17 to 22 October.

Aldeasa and Paco Rabanne strike a chord at Málaga Airport

SPAIN. Aldeasa has announced the continuation of its live music concerts in collaboration with Puig’s Paco Rabanne fragrance brand at Málaga Airport, as part of an ambitious promotion for the new limited edition Black XS line. The concert forms an integral element of Aldeasa's 'retailtainment' campaign with Puig.

Cyprus Airports Duty Free attracts 152,000 entries to prize draw

CYPRUS. Cyprus Airports Duty Free Shops, operated by CTC-ARI Airports, attracted an incredible 152,000 entries for its latest prize draw promotion: a trip for two to the World Cup Final in South Africa. The company is building on its strong track record for prize promotions and draws, which are helping to drive penetration and spend at Larnaka and Pafos airports.

Dublin Airport passenger numbers slide by -15% in May

IRELAND. Passenger traffic at Dublin Airport was just under 1.6 million in May, a -15% fall on the same period last year, according to the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA). The figure continues the sharp downward trend in traffic so far this year. Without the impact of the volcanic ash cloud on traffic May volumes would have fallen by -9%.

Qatar Airways contines expansion drive with six new routes

QATAR. Qatar Airways has announced plans to strengthen its European presence by adding new routes to Budapest, Bucharest, Brussels and Nice. The carrier’s global network will also be boosted by the addition of flights to Phuket and Hanoi.

ACI Europe names Best Airport Award winners for 2010

EUROPE. The sixth Annual ACI Europe Best Airport Awards were announced last night in Milan during the gala dinner at the 20th ACI Europe Annual Congress. Malta, Lyon, Manchester and Barcelona airports were the big winners on the night, which recognised achievement in core activities such as customer service, retail, security and environmental awareness.

MAp Airports bounces back with robust traffic growth in May

INTERNATIONAL. Passenger traffic at MAp Airports’ portfolio bounced back to post strong growth in May, following the problems caused by the volcanic ash cloud in April, notably at its European locations. Sydney Airport continued its robust performance of previous months with a +9% surge in volumes, Copenhagen Airport saw traffic climb by +11.9%, and Brussels Airport was lifted by a +7.2% rise in long-haul traffic.

The Moodie Report launches new column with The Dalmore

INTERNATIONAL. The Moodie Report will launch a regular new feature in the coming days: The Moodie Report Personality of the Month, in association with The Dalmore Single Malt Scotch Whisky. The column aims to recognise those individuals who by their deeds, attitudes and behaviour have advanced the industry’s cause.

AdP bounces back with solid traffic growth in May

FRANCE. Aéroports de Paris has reported passenger traffic growth of +3.3% year-on-year in May, following a -19.1% dip in April due to the impact of the Icelandic volcanic ash cloud. International traffic (excluding Europe) grew by +5.3% in May while European traffic grew by +2.3%. At Paris CDG, traffic climbed by +3.5% to 5.2 million.

Glenfiddich selects 2010 Vintage Reserve via Twitter

UK. Glenfiddich has announced details of its 1978 Vintage Reserve, selected by a global panel, with a nosing and tasting session discussed live on the microblogging site Twitter. After two hours of tweeted discussion, cask number 28152 was selected from a shortlist of four American oak hogshead casks to be the Vintage Reserve.

HMSHost named as Platinum Sponsor for inaugural FAB event

INTERNATIONAL. HMSHost has been named as Platinum Sponsor of the inaugural Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) Conference and Awards, to be run by The Moodie Report and hosted by Manchester Airport on September 5–7. The support of the Autogrill-owned F&B concessionaire underlines the high level of interest in the event.

Manchester Airports Group appoints new Chief Executive

UK. Manchester Airports Group has appointed Charlie Cornish to the position of Group Chief Executive, effective 1 October. He succeeds Geoff Muirhead CBE, who is retiring at the end of September after 22 years at the helm of the group.

Picture Gallery: Estée Lauder unveils Pure Color

INTERNATIONAL. Last month at a major launch event in Paris, Estée Lauder unveiled its revamped Pure Color cosmetics collection, created in partnership with Creative Makeup Director Tom Pecheux, who was appointed last November to help rejuvenate the brand. The Moodie Report brings you a full pictorial overview.

Copenhagen Airport passenger numbers rebound in May

DENMARK. Copenhagen Airport passenger numbers leapt by +11.9% year-on-year in May, to 1.89 million. The growth brought travel patterns back to the level before the ash cloud paralysed European airspace for six days in April. International passenger growth was +10% in the month, with domestic traffic up by +29.7%.

Madrid and Barcelona lead Spanish airport traffic growth in May

SPAIN. Aeropuertos Españoles y Navegación Aérea (AENA), Spain's airport authority, has reported a +2.9% year-on-year increase in passenger numbers across its airport network for May 2010. There was particularly encouraging growth at the country's two major airports, Madrid Barajas and Barcelona El Prat.

Munich Airport posts sharp traffic growth in May

GERMANY. Munich Airport handled 3.07 million passengers in May, a surge of +8% compared to the same month last year, with an encouraging +8.7% rise in international traffic. For the year to date, passenger traffic is up marginally, with international passenger volumes increasing by a healthy +3.1%.

Zürich Airport posts strong commercial results for May

SWITZERLAND. Zürich Airport turned in a rousing traffic and commercial performance in May, despite the impact of the volcano cloud crisis in the early part of the month. Commercial turnover (retail and food & beverage sales) outstripped traffic growth, rising +10.5% year-on-year to CHF43.2 million (US$37.5 million).

Ash cloud sees European airports post dramatic downturn in April

EUROPE. The unprecedented closure of up to 80% of Europe’s airports for six days in April caused a dramatic downturn in passenger numbers during the month, the latest figures from Airports Council International (ACI) Europe have confirmed. Traffic volumes fell by -13.5% year-on-year, with only a handful of airports, notably in Turkey and Russia, posting growth in April. Read on for details.

Frankfurt Airport posts record May for passenger numbers

GERMANY. Frankfurt Airport handled 4.76 million passengers in May, a +7.1% surge compared to May 2009, parent company Fraport said today. The figure was a record for the month of May. Fraport AG Executive Board Chairman Dr. Stefan Schulte said the “extremely satisfying figures" confirmed the upward trend in passenger volumes of recent months.

Ash cloud impact and British Airways strike hit BAA traffic in May

UK. BAA passenger traffic fell by -4.5% year-on-year to 8.6 million, the airports group reported today. The decline was due to the continuing impact of April’s volcanic ash cloud, allied to British Airways’ cabin crew strike action. Without these effects, traffic volumes would have increased in the month, said BAA. Passenger numbers at key travel retail location Heathrow dipped by -3.1%.

Jo Malone boosted by Heathrow cocktail event

UK. This week marks the end of a successful cocktail-themed event for the UK beauty brand Jo Malone in the World Duty Free store at London Heathrow Terminal 5. Customers were invited to visit a temporary Jo Malone treatment area located against the backdrop of the store’s vast digital media screens for a free pampering session.

Vienna Airport posts robust passenger growth in May

AUSTRIA. Vienna International Airport handled 1,788,516 passengers during May 2010, an increase of +11.4% year-on-year. There was strong growth on its key routes to Eastern Europe (+14.5%), while Middle East traffic also posted a robust increase.

WDF launches new walk-through store at Bournemouth Airport

UK. WDF has officially opened its new World Duty Free store airside at Bournemouth Airport. The move follows a ten-year contract extension and comes amid the redevelopment of Bournemouth Airport’s commercial facilities. The 3,997sq ft walk-through store features larger areas for liquor, beauty and luxury goods, plus a range of brands not previously available.

Ballantine’s tees off with major golf competition at Heathrow

UK. To celebrate Ballantine’s sponsorship of the Barclays Scottish Open, Pernod Ricard Travel Retail is running a major competition at London Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 3 throughout June. Travellers are being offered the chance to win a VIP trip to the Barclays Scottish Open at Loch Lomond, held on 8-11 July 2010.

Heathrow ramps up luxury offering with chauffeur service

UK. London Heathrow Airport has added a chauffeur car service to its transport offering. "This new service complements our passengers' needs and provides the most stress-free and enjoyable way to travel to and from the airport,” said Heathrow Passenger Innovation Manager Tom Lomax.

Rémy Cointreau posts double-digit growth amid strong year

FRANCE. The Rémy Cointreau Group reported a strong revenue and profit performance for the 2009/10 financial year ended 31 March, which it said was due to improved distribution, price increases plus investment. Turnover was €807.8 million, an increase of +13.1% (+12.0% organic) while operating profit grew +7.2% to €140 million.

WDF goes green with environmentally friendly summer campaign

UK. WDF’s summer campaign is going green with the use of BioMedia, a biodegradable and recyclable material recently launched by G3S. The new POS campaign has been produced entirely using BioMedia as the print substrate for the graphics, allowing them to either be recycled into light switches, plastic cups or insulation or to be composted when the campaign comes to an end.

Distilleria Bottega breaks biggest grappa bottle record

ITALY. Italian spirits producer Distilleria Bottega has set a new Guinness World Record for the biggest bottle of grappa ever produced. The bottle measures 1.86 metres in height and contains 138 litres of prosecco grappa.

Vilnius Airport adds key retail and food & beverage outlets

LITHUANIA. Vilnius International Airport is to open a series of new retail and food & beverage outlets over the summer months, including a new store from Gebr Heinemann partner UAB Travel Retail Vilnius. The move comes as passenger traffic rises sharply at the location (+19% year-on-year in May).

WHSmith Travel sales hit by impact of volcanic ash cloud

UK. Leading airport newsagent-to-books retailer WHSmith said today that sales within its travel division were down by -4% year-on-year for the 14-week period from 28 February to 5 June 2010. WHSmith Travel said that revenue would have been down by -2% on a like-for-like basis in the period, excluding the impact of the Icelandic volcanic ash disruption.

Airline industry set to return to profit in 2010, says bullish IATA

INTERNATIONAL. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expects airlines worldwide to post a profit of US$2.5 billion in 2010 – a major improvement compared with IATA’s previous forecast of a US$2.8 billion loss. “The top line improvement this year puts us about 75% on the way to pre-crisis levels,” says IATA Director General and CEO Giovanni Bisignani.

Rémy Cointreau celebrates a century in a bottle at Heathrow

UK. Rémy Cointreau Global Travel Retail and WDF are presenting the super-premium Cognac Louis XIII de Rémy Martin in a special display at all terminals in London Heathrow Airport. The centrepiece of the display, themed ‘A Century in a Bottle’, is a black crystal decanter of Louis XIII Rare Cask, one of only 786 bottles in the world.

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