Dubai Duty Free has given its former President, George Horan, a warm send-off following his retirement on 31 May, after 33 years of what DDF describes as “outstanding service to the company”. He has been succeeded by Ramesh Cidambi who has been named Chief Operating Officer.

A series of special celebrations were held over the past week starting with a gathering of management and staff in the Dubai Duty Free Auditorium on Horan’s last day to bid him farewell, accompanied by his wife Carmel and son Brian.

Then on 2 June, a farewell dinner was organised at the Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, attended by the senior executive team and other duty free and travel retail ‘pioneers’ who have worked with Dubai Duty Free since 1983.

The week culminated at the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club the next day, with the Dubai Duty Free President’s Cup, a golf tournament attended by colleagues, friends and industry partners.

DDF says: “The dinner and the golf tournament saw an outstanding evening of entertainment, including many tributes to George Horan, coming from all around the world.” There were emotional speeches from many of his work colleagues, close friends and family.”

In a video acknowledgement to Horan that documents his life, there are many tributes from well-known DF&TR industry figures.

Key among them is Colm McLoughlin, DDF’s Executive Vice Chairman. In the video, addressing Horan, he says: “What many people don’t realise is that you’ve spent 50 years in the airport business, but more importantly, the last 33 years as my colleague in Dubai Duty Free. You have helped make the company grow from just 100 people to the number one duty free operation in the world with 6,100 employees.

On Horan as a person, McLoughlin adds:“Your example includes complete and utter honestly, loyalty, hard work – and I’ve always admired you for that. On behalf of Breda [McLoughlin’s wife] and I, and all the past and present staff of Dubai Duty Free we want to wish you and Carmel the very best in your retirement and we’re here for you whenever you need anything.”

Click here to watch the full video.