TFWA World Exhibition & Conference
TFWA World Exhibition & Conference 2021
With the unanimous support of the Management Committee and pledges to attend from retailers and exhibitors both large and small, TFWA is continuing its preparations for TFWA World Exhibition & Conference with the aim of bringing the duty free and travel retail industry together again at last.

This year’s event will be unlike previous editions in Cannes given the extraordinary global circumstances. However, TFWA remains committed to delivering a long-awaited opportunity to meet, do business and plan for 2022. The changes being introduced will place a sharper focus on creating more opportunities for businesses and attendees to network and share quality time together. At the same time, stringent health and safety measures will be in place to ensure the event can take place safely.

The industry’s commitment to TFWA World Exhibition & Conference remains strong. Close to 250 exhibitors have already confirmed their attendance at the show, with more expected to follow in the final countdown to Cannes. Delegates will be able to view the latest brand launches and activity from these businesses over approximately 11,000 sqm of floor space.

While it is clear that the travel restrictions in place in certain regions will prevent the attendance of many companies that would otherwise be in Cannes, there remains a strong will from across the trade to take part in TFWA World Exhibition & Conference. TFWA is working to find solutions for companies wishing to be part of the event, from virtual meetings and product showcases on the TFWA 365 platform to bespoke meeting space within the Palais.

For those attending in person, strict health protocols will remain in place throughout TFWA World Exhibition & Conference to provide the safest possible environment during the exhibition, conference and social events.

Under French government regulations, delegates vaccinated with a European Medicines Agency (EMA)-approved vaccine can enter France with no restrictions, whatever country they are travelling from. For those travelling from a ‘green’ country but are not vaccinated, a recent negative PCR will also be accepted for entry.

Attendees with vaccines recognised by the EMA will be able to enter the show upon presentation of proof of vaccination. The best way to show this will be via the “Tous Anti Covid” app approved by the French health authorities. Unvaccinated attendees will need proof of a negative COVID-19 test of less than 72 hours, or proof of a positive RT-PCR or antigen test showing recovery from COVID-19 (dating at least 11 days and less than 6 months). Testing facilities will be available at the Palais des Festivals, with antigen tests providing rapid results, while delegates will also be required to use hand sanitisers and wear masks while on site.

For any delegate diagnosed with Covid-19 during TFWA World Exhibition & Conference, the local authorities will be immediately notified and will take charge of the situation. Possible contact cases will also be notified immediately. A 24-hour medical concierge service will also operate at the Palais for anyone feeling unwell and will include online consultations with specialist doctors. Isolation facilities will also be available if necessary. Details of safety measures will be communicated this week on the TFWA website and updates will be sent to all those registered to attend.

TFWA President Jaya Singh said: “In a time of extraordinary circumstances, the need to engage as an industry is even more vital, and we are determined to ensure that the return of TFWA World Exhibition & Conference will provide a springboard for recovery. We are therefore continuing with our preparations for Cannes with the aim of bringing the trade together at last, and the many people we have spoken to are very much looking forward to meeting physically again. We are hugely grateful to the brands and retailers who have committed to support the exhibition, and to the hard work of our Management Committee and team. The overarching message we want to share is this – the show will go on.”