ETRC Forum draws record attendance for debate
ETRC’s annual Business Forum attracted over 150 attendees representing 90 companies
Industry representatives gathered in Amsterdam for the annual European Travel Retail Confederation (ETRC) Business Forum to discuss key industry issues and the business outlook.
This year’s forum, held on January 24, set a new record with over 150 attendees drawn from the ETRC membership, representing 90 companies.
Attendees were provided with analysis of industry performance and trends, and in-depth discussions on major developments including Brexit, beauty trends, digital labeling, new rules on plastics and packaging, and emerging alcohol and tobacco legislation.
On Brexit, ETRC urged members to prepare for all eventualities, including a hard Brexit.
New corporate members attending for the first time included Flemingo Europe (comprising Harding Retail and Baltona), Furla, Godiva, L’Oréal Travel Retail, Beam Suntory GTR, Bottega, Campari, La Prairie, and Lindt & Sprüngli.
Frank O’Connell, President of the ETRC, said: “It’s very encouraging to see such strong attendance and participation from the membership of ETRC. The challenges we are facing from regulatory change across Europe should never be underestimated and today’s turnout reflects that concern. We are very happy that member companies are realising such value from the ETRC Business Forum.”
Newly-appointed ETRC Secretary General Julie Lassaigne said: “Having organized the ETRC Business Forum for some years now, it is wonderful to see the numbers grow, and this year is our best yet. 2019 will be challenging for our members on many issues but ETRC stands ready to robustly defend our industry and all our categories. Our membership has grown substantially in recent years but there are still many gaps amongst key suppliers, and I would urge those that haven’t joined to do so.”
The annual ETRC Business Forum is free to attend for all members.
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