The TFWA World Conference stands as one of the industry's most important annual gatherings—a moment to take stock of a changing world and consider what it means for travel retail. Under the theme “Explore New Horizons” the 2025 edition brings together a select group of global thinkers to unpack the forces influencing the sector and the strategies required to navigate them. From macroeconomic pressures to shifting patterns of demand, the program will explore the challenges facing the industry and the prospects emerging in response. Guiding the discussion is world-renowned journalist and presenter Stephen Sackur, returning as moderator.
Monday, September 29
09:00 – 11:30
Grand Auditorium
Palais des Festivals
Cannes
The morning opens with a state of the industry address by TFWA President Philippe Margueritte. In light of shifting consumer expectations and evolving market dynamics, he will offer his perspective on the industry’s current position, outline its strategic priorities, and examine the outlook for duty free and travel retail, along with the opportunities taking shape on the horizon.
A sharp assessment of today’s geopolitical and economic realignment will follow, led by Rudolph Lohmeyer, Partner at Kearney and head of its National Transformations Institute. He will explore the intersection of trade, investment, and statecraft—examining how shifting alliances, fragmented markets, and increasingly security-driven policy are reshaping the global landscape. For industries that have long depended on openness and cross-border movement—including travel retail—these shifts present both challenge and inflection point. Understanding them is no longer optional—it is a strategic imperative.
The conversation then turns to the global travel landscape with Gloria Guevara Manzo, Chief Special Advisor to the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and former President & CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council. A leading voice in global tourism, she will examine how the sector can serve as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation. Drawing on her extensive public and private sector experience, Gloria will explore how cross-border collaboration and shifting traveller demographics can create new opportunities for duty free and travel retail in a marketplace increasingly shaped by changing demographics, regional dynamics, and competitive pressure.
The program then moves to a different kind of transformation—that of the consumer conscience. Bobby Jones, best-selling author and co-founder of brand consultancy Conspiracy of Love, will explore how modern consumers are increasingly guided by values as much as price. With examples from leading global brands, he will highlight how businesses that embrace purpose, sustainability, and authenticity can forge stronger connections with today’s travellers and succeed in a rapidly evolving retail landscape.
As the industry adjusts to a more complex and fast-moving world, the 2025 TFWA World Conference offers a space to reflect, reconnect, and reimagine what comes next. From visionary leadership to value-led consumer trends, the program will provide delegates with fresh insight into how the industry can move forward—confidently, collaboratively, and with purpose.
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