LATIN AMERICA. Details of a strong programme have been revealed for the TFWA-managed 2024 ASUTIL Conference, which takes place in Bogotá, Colombia on 18-21 June. The refreshed event schedule incorporates a range of learning, networking and social elements.
The conference will open on Wednesday 19 June with addresses from ASUTIL President Enrique Urioste, ASUTIL Secretary Carlos Loaiza-Keel and Duty Free World Council President Sarah Branquinho.
Further sessions will cover subjects such as leadership, digital strategy, consumer loyalty and the future of the beauty sector in travel retail.
The second day of the conference will feature a Latin America economic outlook and a focus on new developments in the region’s duty-free and travel retail industry.
Confirmed speakers and panellists for the conference sessions include m1nd-set Founder and CEO Dr Peter Mohn; Avolta Chief Commercial and Digital Officer Vijay Talwar; LifeMiles Chief Commercial Officer Valeria Yglesias; Nestlé Global Key Account Manager Tamara Spada; Motta Internacional VP Commercial Retail Ignacio Lasa; Shiseido Travel Retail Americas General Manager Pablo Cobian; Coty Travel Retail Vice President Diego Artola; Avolta Senior Vice President and Head of Cruise Division Gian Botteri; Duty Free Americas President Leon Falic; and Lagardère Travel Retail Peru CEO Cyril Letocart.
Delegates will also hear from economist Carlos Melconian; author, composer and orchestra conductor Iñigo Pirfano; magician, lecturer and communicator Daniel Ketchedjian; and author, cardiologist and survivor of the 1972 Andes plane crash Dr Roberto Canessa.
The social programme has also been announced. This includes a Welcome Session and Cocktail on Tuesday, a Gala Dinner on Wednesday and the Closing Cocktail on Thursday, alongside networking coffee and lunch breaks featuring local cuisine and live entertainment. An excursion to the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá, Bogotá is planned for Friday.
Click here the full event programme.
Sponsors of the ASUTIL Conference include Avolta, Attenza, Colonia Express, Carilux Duty Free, JTI, Mondelēz, Lindt, Campari, Heineken, Nestlé, Victorinox, B+D, Travel Blue, Essence, Avianca LifeMiles and King of Reach B&S.
Click here for registration and details of how to secure special hotel rates.
ASUTIL General Secretary Carlos Loaiza-Keel said: “Built upon the successful collaboration between ASUTIL and TFWA, this year’s conference offers a meticulously curated programme and numerous networking opportunities. Bogotá provides the perfect backdrop for an immersive experience, with the conference venue chosen specifically to enhance the renowned ASUTIL networking atmosphere.
“We’re thrilled to see a remarkable +15% increase in registrations compared to last year, with major industry players like Avolta, Attenza, DFA and Lagardère on board. Renowned speakers will headline sessions covering diverse topics from economics to industry insights.
“Attendees can anticipate engaging panels and unique networking opportunities. The ASUTIL Conference continues to shine brightly on the duty-free and travel retail calendar.”
TFWA President Erik Juul-Mortensen commented: “The ASUTIL Conference remains a highlight of the duty-free and travel retail calendar. The South American duty-free and travel retail market is vibrant, growing and filled with promising opportunities. This year’s programme ensures visitors will have plenty of opportunity to learn, conduct business and network in Bogotá.
“The distinguished panel of speakers will delve into the economic factors influencing the business environment in the region, and there will be plenty in the way of entertainment courtesy of a lively social programme. We look forward to seeing friends and colleagues from across the industry in Bogotá.” ✈
