It is the casual conversations after a day’s work that make the Cannes week so valuable. Formal meetings and receptions play an important role at TFWA World Exhibition & Conference, but delegate feedback highlights chance encounters and networking as key sources of opportunity. And after 18 months of working from home, there is a real appetite to resume in-person contact. The TFWA Lounge, generously supported by main partner Qatar Duty Free, has been designed with networking in mind while factoring in the need for space and ventilation, as current health measures require. From a prime position on the famous Carlton Beach, the TFWA Lounge will provide the ultimate setting for industry professionals to relax, enjoy a glass together and mingle once the Exhibition closes each evening. Discussing Qatar Duty Free's involvement, Vice-President Operations Thabet Musleh commented: "QDF is delighted to be the main partner of the TFWA Lounge afterwork networking event at Cannes this year, reflecting our commitment to supporting the travel retail industry as it recovers. Although we have maintained very close relationships with our suppliers and partners across the ongoing pandemic, we are very much looking forward to meeting face to face to discuss and agree strategies and collaborations for the future at our home and hub, Hamad International Airport, recently named the World's Best Airport 2021 by Skytrax."
With invaluable help from Interparfums, Quintessential Brands, Duty Free Global, Perfetti Van Melle, Heineken, Pernod Ricard , Bonne Maman Valrhonaand Mionetto, the TFWA Lounge will operate from 18:30 to 21:00 during the Cannes week. Each evening will have a specific theme, Monday marking the launch of TFWA i.lab and Innovation in Action, with sponsorship by Altavia Travel Retail and BW Confidential. Tuesday will be the turn of Women in Travel Retail, where all genders will be welcome. Industry associations and their staff will be honoured on Wednesday, a chance to thank them for their work in such difficult times. Delegates will have every reason to visit the TFWA Lounge, from the perfect location with views of the Croisette and seashore at sunset, to the opportunity of expanding their business contacts or just the pleasure of seeing colleagues again, all in a health-aware environment.
Visitor pre-registration for TFWA World Exhibition & Conference 2021 has been extented until 14 October. Book your place here
Take a look at what to expect in Cannes in 2021
See the 250+ brands taking stand space at the Exhibition
View the companies participating in this year’s TFWA I.lab
Read more on WiTR to host event at TFWA Lounge