New ETRC President, Frank O’Connell.

The European Travel Retail Confederation (ETRC) has elected Frank O’Connell as its new President, following Sarah Branquino’s decision to step back from the role after six years of dedicated service and leadership to the industry and 15 years of membership of the ETRC Board.

O’Connell, who is also the President of the Duty Free World Council (DFWC), is an experienced member of the duty free and travel retail industry, having also served on the ETRC Board for many years.

O’Connell thanked Sarah Branquinho for her dedication to the industry in her role as President of ETRC, stating: “Sarah’s stewardship of the European Travel Retail Confederation was exemplary, steering the industry’s European representation during challenging times.

“I am delighted to announce that she will continue to work with the ETRC board on Brexit. Sarah’s knowledge of what drives the DFTR industry is unparalleled and we are fortunate to be able to continue benefiting from her experience and guidance.

“I know that ETRC will be in safe hands with Frank and the up and coming ‘new guard’,” says outgoing President, Sarah Branquinho.

NEW BLOOD

“The ETRC Board has changed significantly in recent years with new members coming in. I am delighted that they have asked me to serve a year as President in order to allow for an effective transition to the new generation of ETRC leadership.”

O’Connell also said that the organisation will be building on the work completed under Sarah Branquinho’s leadership, to minimise the potential negative impacts and maximise the opportunities for the industry across Europe and beyond.

“That is our mission on behalf of the industry,” he said.

Branquinho added her comments: “It has been a huge privilege to serve the industry as ETRC’s President for the last six years and I would like to thank the Managing Board, Supervisory Board, corporate members, staff and the wider advocacy team for their support.

“I would also like to pay tribute to Dufry for making it possible for me to commit so much time to this role. We have dealt with some major issues during my tenure, and I know that ETRC will be in safe hands with Frank and the up and coming ‘new guard’”.

The following members comprise the new ETRC Managing Board; Frank O’Connell, President, ETRC; Erik Juul Mortensen, President, TFWA; Fulvio Fassone, President, ATRI; Jacques Parson, President, BDFA; Francois Bourienne, President, UKTRF; Nigel Keal, Global Commercial Director, Dufry and Inken Callsen, Director Fulfillment, Gebr. Heinemann.