The 2024 TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference in Singapore has set new records in participation and engagement, underscoring the event’s importance in the travel retail industry. Preliminary figures indicate that the final visitor count will surpass the previous high set in 2019. The exhibition showcased an impressive 234 exhibiting companies, occupying 9,700 square meters of floor space, with 75 new or returning exhibitors joining the event.
The TFWA Asia Pacific Conference attracted over 1,500 delegates, demonstrating strong industry engagement. The i.lab Asia section featured 15 companies showcasing innovative solutions, further enhancing the event’s comprehensive industry coverage. The ONE2ONE meeting service facilitated 1,312 pre-arranged meetings, providing ample opportunities for business connections.
Networking events were a highlight of the conference. The Welcome Cocktail drew a record number of guests, setting a new benchmark for Singapore. The TFWA Asia Pacific Lounge hosted over 600 guests each evening, providing a convivial atmosphere for networking. The Singapore Social Club’s ‘full moon party’ welcomed 650 attendees, setting another record for the city.
During the closing press conference, TFWA President Erik Juul-Mortensen highlighted the need for reliable and accessible market data. He expressed concerns about the industry’s reluctance to share data, which hinders market intelligence and credibility. “This data deficit robs us of credibility when we lobby to defend our industry,” Juul-Mortensen stated.
This year’s TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference marks Erik Juul-Mortensen’s final event as President. He will serve until December, with the election for his successor to be held in Paris. Reflecting on his tenure, Juul-Mortensen expressed his gratitude: “It has been an honor and a pleasure to get to know so many wonderful people and to see not only TFWA grow but the industry too.” Additionally, Frédéric Garcia-Pelayo announced his retirement from the TFWA Management Committee, marking another significant change in the organization’s leadership.
