In conversation with ALESSIA VOLTAN
How has travel retail changed? Let’s ask Alessia Voltan, Head of Travel Retail & Online at Marcolin, whom we contacted during the TFWA, the duty free and travel retail fair that was held in Cannes between 29 September and 3 October.
«In Travel Retail this segment has shown resilience and a great ability to recover, even though with different rhythms based on the different regions, from EMEA to APAC and America. This year at Marcolin we have experienced stable growth in all our luxury brands, such as TOM FORD, Zegna, Max Mara. The potential of this segment is also proven by the investments that we’ve made recently, such as the acquisition of our new house brand ic! berlin, the launch of the ultra-exclusive TOM FORD Icon brand and the debut of a super-luxury brand like Christian Louboutin in early 2025».
«The digital revolution is undoubtedly also changing the luxury retail scenario. Because it enables greater interaction between brands and their customers through several non-physical touchpoints, such as retail websites, social media accounts or apps. So, travelers can interact with the brand before, during and after their trip. But another important aspect is that the digital world allows for the creation of unique experiences, for example, it enables customers to virtually try on products or, thanks to data analysis, to receive tailored advice. However, it’s important to us at Marcolin that our customers continue to also enjoy a physical luxury brand experience. That’s why, for example, we invest in creating high-quality pop-ups or very attractive displays».
«As Generation Z gradually becomes a dominant segment in the luxury industry, brands will have to adjust, or even anticipate their preferences and values. This generation is very sensitive to sustainability, diversity and inclusion, so brands will not only need to offer high-quality products, but they will also need to make them as sustainable as possible. Gen Zers are also extremely focused on uniqueness and experience, so meeting this need is also key. At Marcolin, for instance, we created exclusive collections for the Travel Retail channel to meet the younger generations’ need for unique products».