Records smashed at 2025 TFWA World Exhibition & Conference which welcomed nearly 8,000 visitors

The record 7,999 visitors that came through the doors at this year’s hugely successful TFWA World Exhibition & Conference was up over 7% from 7,456 last year. While the numbers were high, the quality of the visitors was notably exceptional.

Of the total visitors, 3,032 were retailers and landlords (up from 2,861), and 2,559 were distributors. There were 2,140 other trade visitors, including non-exhibiting brands, service concessionaires, and marketing agencies. Reflecting the truly worldwide nature of the event, all regions were once again well represented.

The show was bigger than ever, with the exhibition space spanning more than 26,500m² compared with 25,000m² last year. The number of exhibitors was also up, with 482 exhibiting companies taking stands, which was 4% more than 2024’s 462. There was also significant interest from the media, with a record 268 journalists and social media influencers attending from across the globe. There were just under a thousand (929) entries to the Innovation Square.

The networking programme got off to a very sure start, with a record 2,833 visitors heading to the Carlton Beach for the Opening Cocktail. The TFWA Lounge welcomed 2,267 visitors across the two sessions on Monday night, and 2,400 on Tuesday night. 2,893 revellers danced the night away with Martin Solveig at the “Phenomena Club” on Wednesday night.

“The figures speak for themselves when it comes to evaluating this year’s conference and exhibition. We still have progress to make as we continue to elevate the experience and add to the excitement of our events, but last week demonstrated that there is no limit to our ambitions when these are underpinned by creativity and an outstanding team spirit. “What I will remember the most is the incredibly positive atmosphere that could be felt around the show both during the working day and across an extremely well attended programme of networking events. We have set a new bar – let’s work together to achieve even more.” 
Philippe Margueritte, TFWA President

Additional comment from TFWA:

“Determining the success of TFWA World Exhibition & Conference is about more than just the figures. This year’s event has been something of a paradox – clearly our industry faces a number of challenges, but it’s evident that people have been really happy to come together, share experiences and work in partnership to address these issues. Relationships are crucial to our future prosperity, and when the going gets tough, it’s important to enjoy some good times together. The number of successful networking events taking place across Cannes this week is testament to the importance of relationships as a cornerstone of our business.” 
Franck Waechter, TFWA Managing Director

“All the right people have been here this week, and my expectations have certainly been met in terms of business. While there is insecurity about what the future holds, it’s really good to witness the fighting spirit and stamina of the industry, and there has been much positivity about facing the challenges ahead. The conference was, I felt, a great blend of intelligent analysis of the trials in front of us and how we face them, with the practical and uplifting lessons from the worlds of business and sport.” 
Sam Gerber, TFWA Vice-President Corporate and Member Services WorldConnect

“Our schedule is always full before we get to Cannes, but this year we were 75% booked up before the summer. There was no room for walk-ins as we simply didn’t have any gaps in our diaries. There’s been a real vibrancy around the Riviera this year, and the energy has been great – there’s been no scepticism. The halls have felt busier, and a real spirit of innovation is becoming integral to the show.” 
Erin Lillis, TFWA Vice-President Commercial Lacoste

“The quality of our meetings has been high, and we’ve had to plan ahead carefully because our diaries have been so full. Cannes is of course a beacon for our industry, and it’s up to the TFWA board, management committee and permanent staff to keep innovating and introducing new concepts, such as Innovation Square.” 
Jean-Pierre Bombet, TFWA Vice-President Finance Be Relax

"This year’s TFWA World Exhibition & Conference has truly been a landmark edition. The record-breaking attendance and the dynamic energy throughout the week are a testament to the resilience and drive for innovation of our industry. From the insightful conference and workshop sessions to the vibrant networking events and the debut of Innovation Square, we’ve seen a powerful convergence of ideas, partnerships, and forward-thinking strategies. It’s clear that our community is not only ready to face the challenges ahead but is also committed to shaping a bold and sustainable future for global travel retail." 
Loukia Alepochoriti, TFWA Vice-President Conferences & Research Imperial Brands PLC

“Our Sunday morning sporting event was a truly inspiring way to start the week. For the third year running, our “Yes We Cannes!” inclusive sports programme organised in partnership with the French accessible sports charity, Stade Toulousain Handisport, was a perfect demonstration of determination and courage. It was particularly gratifying to see this and other elements of the week receiving considerable attention on social media. In the last two weeks, TFWA gained nearly 800 new followers on LinkedIn, taking our total number of followers to over 19,000.” 
Alessio Crivelli, TFWA Vice-President Marketing EssilorLuxottica