On Monday, the 2nd of October, 2023, TFWA DAILY brought the latest highlights from the TFWA World Conference. This year's edition promised to delve into the dynamic forces that shaped our world and the market we operated in. The event boasted a rich lineup of esteemed speakers who provided invaluable insights.
Scheduled from 09:00 to 11:45 at the Grand Auditorium in the Palais des Festivals, the Conference kicked off with a keynote address from TFWA President Erik Juul-Mortensen. With over four decades of experience in the duty-free and travel retail industry, Juul-Mortensen shared his profound perspective on the immediate and long-term future of the industry during that period of significant transformation.
One of the prominent figures gracing the stage that year was the two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bob Woodward, who served as an Associate Editor at The Washington Post. Woodward, renowned for his groundbreaking work in journalism, offered his unique insights into U.S. and global politics, particularly during those times of heightened international tensions. Dr. Pippa Malmgren, an accomplished author, economist, and entrepreneur, also addressed the conference. Dr. Malmgren's diverse career included advisory roles in the White House and the founding of several startups, including those in robotics and artificial intelligence. Her expertise extended to the impact and applications of technology in business, making her a global authority on the subject.
Completing the roster of speakers was Erin Meyer, a professor and author affiliated with INSEAD. Meyer's book, "The Culture Map: Breaking Through the Invisible Boundaries of Global Business," had earned her recognition as one of the most influential business thinkers globally. Her groundbreaking work on decoding how cultural differences affected international business provided a fresh perspective for delegates in Cannes.
Delegates who attended the TFWA World Conference had the opportunity to engage with speakers by posing questions through the TFWA App, which was available for download from both the Apple Store and Google Play. The event was a source of valuable insights and updates.