Sydney Networking Event

WiTR+ Continues to Grow in Australia with a Successful Second Sydney Event

Women in Travel Retail Plus (WiTR+) celebrated another milestone with its second Sydney event at the Nigel Love Building on 24th February, an energetic and engaging afternoon proudly sponsored by Heinemann Oceania and hosted by Sydney Airport at their stunning offices overlooking the runway. With aircraft taking off and landing in the background, more than 50 dynamic women and men from across the travel retail ecosystem, including suppliers, operators, and airport partners, came together for an inspiring celebration of connection, conversation and community.

Guests were welcomed with champagne, cocktails, and warm familiar faces, thanks to generous support from Pernod Ricard and Bacardi. The highlight of the afternoon was a compelling Q&A session featuring Gail Taylor, General Manager Retail at Sydney Airport, and Lan-Anh Quenot, Head of Category Management Beauty, Fashion, Accessories, Watches & Jewellery at Heinemann Oceania. The two senior leaders shared valuable insights into the evolving landscape of airport retail. Gail outlined how shifting traveller behaviour, changing market expectations are reshaping the sector, along with the anticipated impact of the upcoming opening of Western Sydney Airport. She emphasised the importance of collaboration across the industry to ensure sustainable growth and a seamless customer journey. Lan-Anh explored new and emerging consumer trends, including the increasing influence of Gen Z, soon to be the world’s largest cohort of travellers and how their digitally driven expectations are reshaping retail engagement. She also addressed the pressures created by domestic discounting, reaffirming the distinct value of Travel Retail and the need to continue delivering exceptional, differentiated retail experiences.

“It was a celebration of shared experiences, new connections, and the incredible energy that comes from bringing women together and I was so sad not to be able to attend in person,”  Sarah Branquinho, WiTR+

The event was organised by the Australian WiTR+ steering committee Rosi Fernandez (La Prairie), Becky Holliday (Pernod Ricard), and Tanya Leivers (Avolta). In true WiTR+ style, the afternoon ended with fabulous door prizes generously donated by WiTR+ supporters.

This successful gathering marks an exciting continuation of WiTR+’s growth in Australia. With more networking, mentoring, and leadership initiatives planned, the organisation is committed to fostering empowerment, inclusivity, and collaboration among women in travel retail.