Women in Travel Retail Plus marked its official debut in Australia with an event at Pernod Ricard’s offices in Sydney.

Women in Travel Retail Plus (WiTR+) marked its official debut in Australia with a well-attended networking event hosted by Pernod Ricard at the company’s Sydney offices.

Set against the backdrop of the Harbour Bridge, the gathering brought together more than 40 professionals from across the travel retail sector, including suppliers, operators and airport representatives.

The event celebrated connection and collaboration, reinforcing WiTR+’s mission to empower women across the global travel retail industry. Guests were welcomed with champagne and cocktails courtesy of Pernod Ricard, setting the tone for an evening of networking and insight sharing.

Industry leaders from Pernod Ricard, La Prairie and Avolta share travel retail insights

A panel discussion featuring Becky Holliday (Pernod Ricard), Rosi Fernandez (La Prairie), and Tanya Leivers (Avolta) was the highlight of the evening. The panellists shared personal career journeys and perspectives on leadership, inclusivity, and the evolving landscape of global travel retail.

A panel discussion took place featuring Becky Holliday (Pernod Ricard), Tanya Leivers (Avolta) and Rosi Fernandez (La Prairie).

Their discussion underscored WiTR+’s mission to foster mentorship, collaboration, and empowerment for women working in the travel retail industry worldwide.

“What a fabulous celebration of shared experiences, new connections, and the incredible energy that comes from bringing women together,” said Sarah Branquinho, Chair of WiTR+. “Huge thanks to all those who participated and will hopefully go on to join this global community, and to Tanya, Rosi and Becky for working together on what I hope will be the first of many meetings of the Australian ‘chapter’ of WiTR+.”

The WITR Sydney event reinforced WiTR+’s mission to empower women across the global travel retail industry.

WiTR+ expands Asia Pacific presence with Australian launch

The Sydney event marks WiTR+’s first step into the Asia Pacific region, further extending its global footprint. The group aims to strengthen engagement across markets by providing women in travel retail with greater opportunities for leadership, visibility, and professional development.

The WiTR+ event was held at the Pernod Ricard offices in Sydney

Door prizes donated by WiTR+ supporters added a celebratory close to the event, which drew positive feedback from attendees for its inspiring and inclusive atmosphere.

The launch in Australia signals a significant milestone for WiTR+ as it continues to grow its global community. Further regional initiatives are planned to build momentum and support women’s advancement within the travel retail channel.

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