Tateossian marks 35th anniversary with global travel retail push

Jewelry specialist Tateossian celebrated its 35^th anniversary this year with a sharpened focus on growth in global travel retail.

According to Founder Robert Tateossian, that focus is on two key areas: expanding the brand’s Thompson of London inflight offer and strengthening the brand’s signature Tateossian collections.

Created to deliver stylish, contemporary men’s jewelry at accessible price points, Thompson of London centers on semi-precious stone bracelets and modern accessories designed for everyday wear. With retail prices under US$50, Tateossian says the line is “particularly well-suited to inflight and travel retail, where customers want versatile pieces that are both affordable and giftable." The brand is also positioned to drive volume onboard.

Meanwhile, Tateossian’s signature collections – led by mechanical cuff links and beaded bracelets – remain strong performers at airport counters, “appealing to travelers seeking meaningful, collectible purchases.”

“The year 2025 marks our 35th anniversary, an important milestone for the brand,” says Tateossian. “Our wider campaigns this year celebrate Tateossian’s values of innovation, discovery and individuality, themes that translate naturally into the travel retail environment where consumers seek out products with a story,” Tateossian says.

The company is also eyeing cruise retail as a growth channel. “Cruise travelers are often in a celebratory mindset and open to meaningful purchases, which aligns well with our designs,” Tateossian notes. At the same time, the brand is in advanced talks to open additional airport counters, reinforcing its global presence in key hubs.

While Tateossian’s collections remain the anchor in airport retail, Thompson of London provides “an accessible entry into men’s jewelry.” Inspiration across both lines is rooted in “connection – between heritage and modernity, nature and craftsmanship,” with stones and materials sourced worldwide to create pieces that resonate with travelers looking for something meaningful to take home.

Tateossian says men’s jewelry continues to be one of the strongest growth areas, with bracelets leading the category. “Travelers are looking for versatile, easy-to-wear pieces with individuality, and there’s a clear demand for jewelry that balances strong design with accessible pricing,” he adds.

Still, challenges remain. Limited shelf space for men’s jewelry in travel retail is one. “The modern male consumer is increasingly open to accessorizing, and the market has not yet caught up,” Tateossian says.

“Another challenge is price sensitivity, particularly inflight, where affordability drives purchasing. Our role is to meet that demand while still offering innovation, storytelling, and aspirational design.”