TGA Industry News Briefs

September 29, 2022

Big, Small, Short, Tall — Buyers Visit Them All

Concerned about booth size and costs? No need! Buyers don’t care how big or small your booth is — they just want to know you are present and have new products to share. The 2023 Travel Goods Show is our industry’s first major gathering in three long years. It’s important to have a presence as we move #ForwardTogether. Contact Cathy Trecartin, cat@travel-goods.org, 877-842-1938 x-702, to learn about the different booth options for showcasing your products to new and long-time travel goods buyers.

Qualified buyers register here for your FREE badge.
Reserve your exhibitor booth here.

TOP NEWS

Big, Small, Short, Tall — Buyers Visit Them All

TGA

Concerned about booth size and costs? No need! Buyers don’t care how big or small your booth is — they just want to know you are present and have new products to share. The 2023 Travel Goods Show is our industry’s first major gathering in three long years. It’s important to have a presence as we move #ForwardTogether. Contact Cathy Trecartin, cat@travel-goods.org, 877-842-1938 x-702, to learn about the different booth options for showcasing your products to new and long-time travel goods buyers.

Qualified buyers register here for your FREE badge.
Reserve your exhibitor booth here.

TGA Urges U.S. Government to Address False Leather Claims Online

TGA

On September 28, TGA urged the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate widespread false leather claims for products sold on the Amazon marketplace. The letter argues that products making false leather claims have an unfair competitive advantage over TGA members when members are already facing the twin challenge of a supply chain crisis and rising inflation.

$700 Million Might Be Coming for Tariff-Hit Importers

SOURCING JOURNAL

The House of Representatives introduced new legislation that could spell relief for American importers. Last week, lawmakers proposed the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) “Refund-Only” Bill, which would return more than $700 million in tariffs paid by U.S. companies that have imported luggage, handbags, backpacks, cases, wallets and other travel gear and accessories since the trade program lapsed on December 31, 2020. READ MORE

Viewpoint: There Are Winners and Losers in the Diversion of Trade

AMERICAN SHIPPER

The diversion of trade continues, and the Port of New York and New Jersey took the top spot for moving the most import and export containers in the month of August. The Port of Los Angeles was pushed down to the third slot behind Long Beach. The Port of New York and New Jersey moved 843,191 import and export containers. The port’s five busiest months have all occurred in 2022, including August. READ MORE

The Most Effective Way to Organize Your Suitcase Using Packing Cubes

CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER

“[Packing cubes are] extremely efficient at keeping you organized before your trip, during your trip, and as you make your way home,” says Just Packed’s Lydia Mansel. “They help you pare down what you’re bringing, keep clean pieces separate from dirty, and are critical if you want to avoid the dreaded ‘shove everything in’ method before catching your return flight.” READ MORE

Luxury Retail Follows Money and Shoppers to the ‘Burbs

PYMNTS.COM

There was a time not long ago when fashion fiends living in the hinterlands made trips to “the city” to shop the most glittering brands in luxury. But with the COVID migration from cities to suburbs, an increasing number of high-end brands have begun to “fish where the fish are” so to speak, and are expanding outside of big population centers and setting up shop in the leafy communities nearby. READ MORE

Travel Is High Stress, But These Easy-Does-It Travel Products Can Help

NEW YORK POST

By now you may have regained frequent-flyer status and are stocked up with all the main travel essentials. But for the avid travel enthusiast, a few more goods that better reflect your needs and style can make all the difference when exploring a new destination. Whether its applying sunscreen from a sustainable tube, packing up a cooler before the ultimate road trip, or stargazing on a super soft travel blanket that comes in a bag — these must-have extras will keep that summer vibe alive well beyond apple picking season. READ MORE

Retailers Take a Heavy-Handed Approach to Combat Theft

INSIDER INTELLIGENCE

Retailers lost $94.5 billion last year due to retail shrink in 2021, up from $90.8 billion the previous year, per the National Retail Federation’s 2022 Retail Security Survey. Retailers are struggling to find a middle ground between preventing theft and improving the in-store experience. READ MORE

It’s Time to Replace Your Cooler with One of These Awesome Insulated Backpacks

TRAVEL + LEISURE

If you haven’t shopped for a cooler in a while, you might hear the phrase “backpack cooler” and imagine strapping one of those classic Coleman red and white plastic rectangles to your back. Not a spinally appealing thought, but there’s no need to call up your chiropractor just yet. Backpack coolers are a more recent addition to the insulated cooler bag lineup. They still pack the insulation you need, but can be carried on your shoulders just like a standard backpack rather than wheeled over bumpy gravel or draped over one uncomfortable arm. READ MORE

6 Ways to Reach Your Target Audience on Instagram

SOCIAL MEDIA EXAMINER

Wondering if your business should be marketing on Instagram? Curious whether your marketing is attracting the right Instagram audience? In this article, you’ll discover six ways to research and analyze your target audience on Instagram. READ MORE

15 Factors That Could Be Muddling Your Priorities as a Business Leader

FORBES

As a leader, the priorities you set for your business can be the difference between success and failure. A lack of delegation, poor work-life balance and other daily stressors can cause business leaders to lose sight of what’s important, making setting priorities more challenging. Here, 15 members of Forbes Coaches Council share the top factors that stand in the way of good prioritization and how business leaders can start focusing on the right things. READ MORE

The Best Carry-on Luggage for Every Traveler

MASHABLE

Avoid the hassle and expense of checked baggage with these 10 great options to suit any type of trip. READ MORE

TGA

We know, we know: What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas — but we can’t keep this news to ourselves. These exhibitors will be among a stellar lineup showing off their products at The 2023 Travel Goods Show: Stephen Joseph®, Osgoode Marley, Leisure Merchandising, FlyWithWine and Que Factory. READ MORE

See what’s new with these and many other exhibitors — register here for your FREE buyer’s badge. Exhibitors, reserve your booth here and make it happen in Vegas.

Draft TGA Letter Urging U.S. Government to Address False Leather Claims Online — Need Feedback and More Examples

TGA

TGA has drafted a letter urging the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate widespread false leather claims for products sold on the Amazon marketplace. The letter argues the products making false leather claims have an unfair competitive advantage over TGA members when members are already facing the twin challenge of a supply chain crisis and rising inflation. Please provide feedback on the draft letter by COB next Thursday, September 29, and please share any other examples you have found of false leather claims that we can add to the appendix.

TGA Lobbies for GSP Renewal/Relief

TGA

On September 20, TGA joined dozens of companies and organizations, including a number of travel goods companies, for a lobby day in Congress, lobbying over 80 Congressional offices to support immediate renewal of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program, which has now been expired for 20 months. Short of renewal, TGA lobbied for the GSP “Refund-Only” bill (H.R. 8906), which would immediately refund to TGA members the duties paid on U.S. travel goods imports from GSP countries from January 1, 2021 to August 30, 2022, to provide some immediate relief to our industry as we wait for Congress to conclude its negotiations over TGA renewal. GSP provides duty-free access to the U.S. market for travel goods from developing countries (Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Thailand, etc.). Today, GSP countries supply 20% of all U.S. travel goods imports.

Supply Chain Envoy Stephen Lyons Optimistic on Rail, Port Negotiations

TRANSPORT TOPICS

White House Supply Chain Envoy Stephen Lyons said on September 20 that he believes the recently negotiated tentative agreement between the six Class I railroads and unions — representing 150,000 railroad locomotive engineers, conductors and railroad workers — will be ratified. The tentative agreement, reached September 15 after negotiating more than 20 hours with Labor Secretary Marty Walsh, averted a nationwide railroad strike that would shut down 30% of the shipping capacity for the country’s cargo. READ MORE

Holiday Retail Forecasts and Predictions for 2022

RIS

Summer may have flown by, but nonetheless, it’s time for retailers to prepare and roll out their peak selling season plans. To help readers develop their strategies, RIS once again tapped retail experts to get their predictions and forecasts. We also scoured recent retail surveys and research to provide the top data needed to prepare. READ MORE

Always Be Prepared: TPG Staffers Share How They Make Their Travel Days Easier

THE POINTS GUY

Since many members of the TPG staff are often on the move, we’ve each developed our own way of preparing for an easier travel day. Every step of the travel journey, from packing to negotiating airports, has become second nature. And in this guide, four TPG staffers weigh in on their favorite travel tips. So, without further ado, let’s dive in. READ MORE

Welcome to the Future of European High-Speed Rail Travel

CNN

European rail had a positive week: French railway company SNCF and train manufacturer Alstom unveiled the first completed TGV M, a next-generation, high-speed, double-decker train that Alstom has dubbed “the TGV of the future.” READ MORE

The Top Three Retail and E-Commerce Trends Set to Shape 2023

THE DRUM

The COVID-19 pandemic saw e-commerce growth spike, big time, but myriad issues have since created a historic drop in digital sales. Obviously, consumers have been returning to brick-and-mortar stores — albeit not at the pre-pandemic levels. But there are other significant factors at play, including supply chain issues, low consumer sentiment and rising inflation. So, what’s next? Experts have identified three trends that will shape the landscape over the next year. READ MORE

Traveling Soon? Pack Smarter with Our Favorite Luggage Sets

ZD NET

Prepare for your next trip with the best luggage sets that make travel easy and affordable. Simplify your packing needs by investing in high-quality suitcases. It’ll make every time you travel feel like a vacation. READ MORE

Looking for a New CMO? Look No Further Than Your Social Media Manager

ADWEEK

Social media is crucial to all businesses. Worldwide, 4.48 billion people use it — that’s more than half of the entire human population. Yes, that is a heavy load, and yet those who carry it are often deemed not worthy of holding leadership positions. So how can social media managers earn their seat at the table and validate their candidacy for leadership? READ MORE

TrovaTrip, Which Matches Travel Group Hosts with Travelers, Lands $15M

GEEKWIRE

TrovaTrip, a Portland, Oregon-based startup that runs a marketplace for group travel, raised $15 million in a Series A round led by Seattle’s Madrona Venture Group. The company said it had 10X growth in bookings last year despite the ongoing pandemic. Travel companies took a hit when the pandemic began, but some have recovered amid an uncertain economy and the lingering effects of COVID-19 around the world. Expedia Group cited strong travel demand in its most recent earnings report. READ MORE

The Best Luggage for Kids — So They Can Spend All Weekend at Grandma & Grandpa’s House

SCARY MOMMY

Little jet setters need a lot of things to travel comfortably. We’re talking neck pillows, blankets, cool clothing, and of course some luggage that’s just the right size. While parents are busy managing logistics, their own luggage, and everything else (don’t forget the travel bed), kids as young as toddlers can get a bit of autonomy by wheeling their own suitcases. The best luggage for kids is cute and functional while being easy for them to wheel around while on vacation. READ MORE

3 Skills That Will Instantly Point to Someone with Good Leadership

INC.

Leaders today must lead not just with their heads but with their hearts. They must have passion for their work, compassion for the people they serve, empathy for their fellow employees and the courage to make bold decisions. Bill George, former chairman and CEO of Medtronic and currently a professor at Harvard Business School, just released a new book called Emerging Leader Edition of True North, co-written with Millennial entrepreneur and CEO Zach Clayton. READ MORE

Good News for Weary Travelers: Online Passport Renewal Is Coming Your Way

THE NEW YORK TIMES

The shift will eliminate the need for piles of paperwork and hours waiting in lines. But it will still take some time to actually get your hands on your passport. READ MORE

TGA

Plans are well underway for The 2023 Travel Goods Show — our first major industry gathering since 2020. Don’t miss reconnecting with your colleagues as we move #ForwardTogether. Buyers from these companies have already made plans to attend: Macy’s, Portmantos, QVC, Magellan’s, Irv’s Luggage, Hammacher Schlemmer, Boscov’s, AAA/CAA, Paradies Lagardere, Airline International, Backcountry, Groskopf’s, Luggage Shop of Lubbock, The Mazel Company, TripQuipment, Lazar’s Luggage Superstore, The Mazel Company…

Join them in Las Vegas by registering for your FREE badge today. Exhibitors, reserve your booth here.

September 20 GSP Lobby Day in Washington, D.C. and New GSP Legislation

TGA

On September 20, the Coalition for GSP — of which TGA is a member — will hold a lobby day in Washington, D.C. It is open to all U.S. importers and there is no cost to attend, so we strongly encourage you to participate and share the importance of GSP to your company. If you can attend, please register here as soon as possible. The meetings are timely: new legislation will be introduced shortly that could refund over $700 million in tariffs paid on luggage, handbags, backpacks, cases, wallets, etc. due to GSP expiration. We will ask Congressional offices to support that legislation as the bare minimum Congress should do this year (i.e., if no larger renewal deal can be reached). Please contact TGA’s Nate Herman if you have any questions or if you plan to attend the September 20 lobby day.

A Fall Preview

TGA

We had an interesting summer as an industry. Despite many headaches for our customers, travel this summer returned with a vengeance. And everyone went back to school in person this fall, leading to brisk sales of backpacks and related gear. This great news remains tempered, however, by ongoing congestion issues, high tariffs caused by Congress’ failure to renew GSP and the ongoing trade war, and more recently, the threat of growing inflation. So, where do we stand as we enter fall and the critical holiday shopping season? Read more in Capital Beat.

U.S. Travel Goods Industry Faces More California Prop 65 Notices; TGA Prop 65 Best Practices Guidance

TGA

Over the summer, dozens of new California Proposition 65 (Prop 65) “60-day” notices have been issued alleging that brands and retailers sold in California totes, travel bags, crossbody bags, organizer bags, phone/passport cases/bags, wallets, travel bottles, pet carriers, backpacks, and handbags that contained di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), Hexavalent Chromium (Chrome VI), Bisphenol A (BPA), Di-isodecyl phthalate (DIDP), and diisononyl phthalate (DINP) in violation of a California law known as Proposition 65 (Prop 65). The notices serve as intent to bring lawsuits against manufacturers and retailers that made and sold these products. Check out TGA’s member-only California Proposition 65 (Prop 65) Best Practices Guidance on the Prop 65 page on the TGA website. This member-only guidance details best practices in developing your company’s Prop 65 testing and warning label protocol, including recommendations on which warning label text to use, where to place the warning label text, and how to test for Prop 65 listed chemicals in your products. For more information on Prop 65, please contact TGA’s Nate Herman, nate@travel-goods.org, 301-775-7633.

Inflation Rose 0.1% in August Even with Sharp Drop in Gas Prices

CNBC

Inflation rose more than expected in August as rising shelter and food costs offset a drop in gas prices, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported earlier this week. The consumer price index, which tracks a broad swath of goods and services, increased 0.1% for the month and 8.3% over the past year. Excluding volatile food and energy costs, CPI rose 0.6% from July and 6.3% from the same month in 2021. READ MORE

The Capitol Hill Trade Policy Cleanup

POLITICO

The House is back this week, and that means lawmakers can get to work in earnest on trying to tie up some loose ends on trade policy before the midterm elections. READ MORE

Unions, Railroad Officials Head to D.C. As White House Urgently Discusses Contingency Plans Amid Rail Shutdown Threat

CNN

With the two sides still unable to reach an agreement and with a freight rail strike looming, union officials and representatives of the railroads convened in Washington, D.C. yesterday where they met with Labor Secretary Marty Walsh, according to officials with each union and a Department of Labor spokesperson. READ MORE

The 20 Best Carry-on Luggage and Bags of 2022

CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER

To master the art of packing light, you have to embrace traveling with only a carry-on bag. Luckily, the best carry-on luggage options are an impressive fleet of innovative designs — from expandable suitcases to ones with removable wheels. Ahead, discover the best carry-on luggage to buy right now — all of which our editors and contributors have packed, zipped, and taken on the road to ensure their durability, ease of use, and space — from top luggage makers like Briggs & Riley, Paravel, Away, Samsonite, and Arlo Skye. READ MORE

OfftheGrid, a New Tinder-Like Travel App, Helps Travelers Meet Up and Discover Destinations

TECHCRUNCH

A new app called OfftheGrid aims to bring a Tinder-like experience to the travel market, by having its users swipe and chat with like-minded travelers while also discovering unique places to visit. The app gives users a way to share photos and videos of their travels, post about an upcoming trip, arrange meetups with others and learn about new travel destinations. READ MORE

Holiday Airfare Will Be the Most Expensive in 5 Years as Pandemic Fears Wane

CNBC

If you’re thinking about flying over Thanksgiving or Christmas, get ready to pay up. Flights for the holidays will be the most expensive in five years, fare-tracker Hopper said Monday. Average domestic airfare for trips over Thanksgiving is $350, and international roundtrips are going for an average of $795 — both mark a 22% increase compared with 2019, before the pandemic, Hopper said. READ MORE

Retail Is — And Always Will Be — Integral to the Digital Customer Experience

CMSWIRE

Ah, the age-old tale of a startup looking to make its mark in the digital commerce space. It’s a story as old as time and has been tried countless times since the advent of the internet. Many attempt, few succeed and even more struggle with acquiring and retaining customers that actually purchase products entirely digitally. READ MORE

Traveling This Fall? Expect Cheaper Prices, ‘Seasonal Drift’ and, yes, Chaos

THE NEW YORK TIMES

After a haywire summer of flight cancellations and delays, travelers remain eager to roam, returning to familiar hot spots like New York, Europe and the Caribbean. Here’s what they can expect this season. READ MORE

Do You Tell Your Employees You Appreciate Them?

HARVARD BUSINESS REVIEW

The research is clear: Employee recognition — when done well — has huge payoffs. According to the data we collect on leaders across industries, every measure of morale, productivity, performance, customer satisfaction, and employee retention soars when managers regularly provide recognition. And yet, there are many leaders out there who fail to do it frequently or skillfully. READ MORE

Luxury Brands Prepare for ‘Millennial Domination’

PYMNTS.COM

As much as luxury apparel brands are mapping out their omnichannel future to tap into changing demographic trends and more brand-engaged consumers, there’s one big blind spot that needs to be addressed. “By [2025], Millennial and Gen-Z Will Dominate the Luxury Market with >70% Share,” stated an investor presentation last week from Tapestry, the holding company that owns the Coach, Kate Spade and Stuart Weitzman brands, while outlining what it sees as the steps needed to grow its sales to $8 billion for the fiscal year ending in July 2025. READ MORE

The Plane’s a Filthy Mess. Who’s to Blame?

THE NEW YORK TIMES

Recent social media posts suggest that the days of clean flights may be going the way of masks. And they’ve ignited a debate about who bears responsibility. READ MORE

Possibility of Railway and Port Strikes Threaten Supply Chain Recovery

AXIOS

Two huge labor disputes, in the railways and at the ports, threaten to re-tangle supply chains in the U.S. And the White House is pushing to avert disaster, engaged at a level not seen in decades. The stakes are sky-high economically. A shutdown of the nation’s rail system could cost $2 billion a day, according to an industry estimate, and we’ve already seen what backed up ports do to the economy. Politically, any work stoppage would spell disaster for a pro-labor White House determined to keep inflation in check and avert bottlenecks. READ MORE

Expedia CEO: ‘Business Travel Is Back’ Like I Predicted All Along During the COVID Pandemic

CNBC

Expedia CEO Peter Kern told CNBC earlier this week that business travelers have returned. During the dark times of the COVID pandemic in late 2020, he predicted they would make a comeback and that day has come. READ MORE

TGA

Who’s showing off new travel products at The 2023 Travel Goods Show? Bon Voyage®, Travelers Club®, WANDRD, FLYYPOD® and Jack Georges — that’s who! They’re part of an exciting Show lineup as we all move #ForwardTogether. Haven’t got your booth yet? Click here.

Qualified buyers register here for your FREE badge — and plan to see who all will be with us in the Entertainment Capital of the World. READ MORE

Travel Goods Take Center Stage (Off Camera and On)

TGA

Happy days are here again with luggage sales increasing nearly 80% and other travel goods categories getting a big bump, too. Is it revenge shopping? Back to biz as usual? Find out in Nate Herman’s “State of the U.S. Travel Goods Market” report. READ MORE

Let’s meet a couple of TGA members — it only takes a minute. Meet McKlein and its collection of professional briefcases, backpacks and bags, and Cabeau and the Incredi-belt™ Lumbar Support. Each stars in Packed in a Minute, TGA’s ongoing video series featuring our members and their travel products. Want to be the clip everyone binges? Send in your product video for Packed in a Minute today. READ MORE

September 20 GSP Lobby Day in Washington, D.C. and New GSP Legislation

TGA

On September 20, the Coalition for GSP — of which TGA is a member — will hold a lobby day in Washington, D.C. It is open to all U.S. importers and there is no cost to attend, so we strongly encourage you to participate and share the importance of GSP to your company. If you can attend, please register here as soon as possible. The meetings are timely: new legislation will be introduced shortly that could refund over $700 million in tariffs paid on luggage, handbags, backpacks, cases, wallets, etc. due to GSP expiration. We will ask Congressional offices to support that legislation as the bare minimum Congress should do this year (i.e., if no larger renewal deal can be reached). Please contact TGA’s Nate Herman if you have any questions or if you plan to attend the September 20 lobby day.

Biden Administration to Maintain China Tariffs While Review Continues

REUTERS

The Biden administration said on Friday it will keep tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars’ worth of Chinese imports in place while it continues a statutory review of the duties imposed by former President Donald Trump. READ MORE

Uyghurs: China May Have Committed Crimes Against Humanity in Xinjiang — UN

BBC

The UN has accused China of “serious human rights violations” in a long-awaited report into allegations of abuse in Xinjiang province. China had urged the UN not to release the report — with Beijing calling it a “farce” arranged by Western powers. READ MORE

2 More Freight Rail Unions Reach Tentative Agreements for New Labor Contract

FREIGHT WAVES

Two more railroad unions reached tentative labor agreements with the U.S. freight railroads right before Labor Day weekend. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the American Train Dispatchers Association (ATDA) both said the labor agreements are based on recommendations from the Presidential Emergency Board (PEB), a three-person independent committee appointed by President Joe Biden that sought to come up with ways that the unions and railroads could settle their differences. READ MORE

Holiday Air Travel Tops Pre-Pandemic Levels for the First Time

ABC NEWS

For the first time since COVID-19 brought air travel to a standstill, the number of people streaming through U.S. airport-security checkpoints over a holiday weekend exceeded pre-pandemic levels. READ MORE

Recommerce Tech Firm Grows as REI, Lululemon Expand Used Apparel Sales

RETAIL DIVE

Trove, a recommerce operating system, announced last week that its technology is now present in more than 700 stores nationwide. Lululemon, Patagonia, REI and Levi’s are among the brands that have adopted the technology, which touts its ability to help companies reach sustainability goals while “extending the life of high-quality products,” according to a company press release and website. READ MORE

Are You Afraid to Identify as a Leader?

HARVARD BUSINESS REVIEW

When it comes to leading, self-identity matters. Research has shown that seeing yourself as a leader is an important first step on the path toward becoming one — and reluctance to identify as a leader can keep capable people from taking on leadership responsibilities. So, why are people so often uncomfortable with thinking of themselves as leaders? READ MORE

5 Types of Social Media Networks and the Benefits of Each One

SEARCH ENGINE JOURNAL

As social media evolves, it can be difficult for brands to determine where to focus their attention. And who has the time to engage on all social media platforms and apps effectively? No one. So then, which ones should your brand use to connect with its audience? Well, that depends on a couple of factors. READ MORE

Travel Industry Revival Shows U.S. Consumers Are Willing to Spend

BLOOMBERG.COM

News from several travel-related companies shows consumer spending is healthy. Demand is high, and the industry is rebounding as pandemic-era troubles subside. READ MORE

The Top Five Trends for Luxury Retail in 2023

SIA PARTNERS

Luxury retail is traditionally thought to be among the most insulated of retail segments against market disruptions. However, new challenges are on the horizon that cannot be solved so easily. To thrive in this new paradigm, luxury brands must rewrite the story of who they are and how they interact with their consumers. Here are the top luxury retail trends worth monitoring for any brand wanting to make an impact in 2023 and beyond. READ MORE

Receipt Data Makes Corporate Travel Expense Management More ‘Hospitable’

PYMNTS.COM

The road warriors are returning to airports, hotels and restaurants in droves. And, curiously enough, in an age when consumers can book and pay for travel (and all the stops during the trips) with just a double click, for corporate travelers, the hospitality business is still anything but hospitable. At least when it comes to expense management. READ MORE

The 10 Best Fanny Packs for Every Type of Adventure

OUTSIDE

The answer to the question, “Are fanny packs still cool?” will always be a resounding yes for me — I’m Team Hip Pack all the way (I am aware that others are not so sure). I’ll still reach for a backpack when I’m going for a long hike or have my kid with me, but for most quick outings, I think a fanny pack is the way to go. For whatever you like to do, here are 10 fanny packs that get the job done — and look good doing it. READ MORE

TGA

“Never put off till tomorrow what may be done day after tomorrow just as well.” Just kidding! We love a good Mark Twain quote, too — but now is the time for exhibitors to register for their badge for The 2023 Travel Goods Show. Haven’t got your booth yet? Click here.

Qualified buyers register here for your FREE badge and — time to start dreaming about seeing in person the latest and greatest in travel goods and gear in the Entertainment Capital of the World.

Las Vegas Is the No.1 Happiest Place to Travel to in North America — Here’s What Else Made the List

CNBC

Club Med released its list of the top 10 happiest travel destinations in North America after compiling data from the 50 most-visited tourist destinations. Las Vegas topped the list with an index score of 73.7. The popular destination got an overall happiness score of 27.6 thanks to a wide range of activities perfect for visitors planning to get the most out of their stay. READ MORE

Holiday Travel Quiz! How Well Do You Know These Facts About Labor Day Travel and More?

FOX NEWS

This new quiz will test your knowledge of summer and Labor Day travel ahead of the holiday weekend. READ MORE

Travel Smarter with TikTok-Inspired Packing Hacks That Save Money and Space

YAHOO! LIFE

If you’ve traveled by plane in the past few months or watched any news coverage on airports lately, you know that lost luggage has also become a major issue, along with delays and flight cancellations. If baggage fees weren’t enough of a deterrent for you to skip full-sized rolling luggage already, images of lost luggage in airports across North America have pushed most travelers into rethinking whether they need to bring a backup outfit for every day they are away from home. If an airport is in your future, you need travel hacks. READ MORE

Steps to Take if You Think an Airline Has Damaged Your Luggage

THE POINTS GUY

It’s reasonable to expect your bag to experience normal wear and tear over time. However, what happens when your luggage becomes damaged beyond that when getting from point A to point B? Damaged baggage policies are fairly consistent across airlines, with several key steps you’ll need to take. Here’s everything you need to know about submitting a claim and what you can expect throughout the process. READ MORE

Should Retail Worry About the ‘Quiet Quitting’ Trend?

RETAILWIRE

A global trend dubbed “quiet quitting” has replaced “The Great Resignation” as the latest development among disgruntled workers arising from the pandemic. Quiet quitting, like The Great Resignation, is about seeking greater work-life balance — except you get to keep your job. Some feel the catchphrase, popularized on TikTok, is about doing the bare minimum at your job, including avoiding overtime and tasks outside your job description as well as limiting engagement at work, such as switching off devices and logging off after work hours. READ MORE

Curbside Pickup Is Here to Stay and Retailers Are Going All-in

THE WASHINGTON POST

With inflation causing consumers to change their spending habits, major retailers are leaning into “omnichannel” shopping options to draw in customers. READ MORE

T-Mobile Says 5G and Embedded Payments Set to Unlock New Connected Retail Experiences

PYMNTS.COM

Even in the early days of its commercial rollout, we know that 5G has the fastest throughput and connective capability of any standard yet conceived, but it remains somewhat abstract. That era is setting as 5G solutions and experiences begin appearing in stores and homes. In a conversation for the series “Digital Payments Flip the Script: 10 Merchants and 10 Visions for Digital Transformation,” Chris Melus, vice president of product development, advanced wireless solutions at T-Mobile for Business, discussed the many ways 5G tech is either about to transform whole industries, or is already doing so. READ MORE

What Is a Social Media Content Creator and When Should You Hire One?

SPROUT SOCIAL

Hiring for a role you’ve never filled before can be tricky, especially when it’s a role that’s still emerging within its discipline. If you want to level up your social strategy with a social media content creator, here’s everything you need to know. READ MORE

Accelerate Your Trade Show ROI

VENTURE BEAT

The return of in-person trade shows is welcome news to most marketers. There are few marketing channels that generate more qualified leads and grow relationships better than a trade show. As we return to these types of events, however, you might be wondering how to really make the most of these experiences and ensure you see a positive return on your investment. READ MORE

20 of Our Favorite Crossbody Bags That Are Perfect for Travel

CNN

If you want to qualify as a savvy traveler, there are a few must-haves. Luggage with spinner wheels? Check. Packing cubes? Oh yeah. A crossbody bag? Must-have! While great for everyday use, crossbody bags are essential for traveling. Not only do they allow you to be hands-free — so you can roll through the airport, take selfies and eat gelato with ease — they’re also a lot harder for pickpockets to strike upon. READ MORE

‘We’ve Effectively Taken a Pay Cut’: How Inflation Is Impacting Retail Workers

MODERN RETAIL

Inflation is crushing workers across all industries. But in retail, it’s laid bare for many workers the longtime shortcomings of the industry. Workers’ schedules are at the mercy of store managers, and they often don’t get all of the hours they request. There are few opportunities for advancement within stores, and often they don’t come with as much of a pay increase as workers hope. READ MORE

TGA

Innovative. Impressive. Comfy Cozy. High Performance. Essential. Our exhibitor lineup for The 2023 Travel Goods Show is all this and more. Here are just a few: Heritage Travelware. Solo New York. NOMATIC. Mobile Edge. HYDAWAY. READ MORE

Attendees, meet these exhibitors and more — register here for your badge.
Exhibitors, reserve your booth here — we’ll gush about you, too.

Hands On and a Leg Up

TGA

More and more people are vacating their offices in favor of seeing the world while working on the fly – and travel goods manufacturers are stepping up to help these remote workers realize their dreams. Read about the “Best Travel Gear for Digital Nomads” here.

Travel gear that makes travel docs and other small essentials easier to get to with speedy-access storage. Another makes children’s lives easier. It’s what we’re BUZZing about here.

China Just Ran into Something That Could Be Even More Devastating for Its Supply Chains Than COVID-19 Lockdowns: A Record Heat Wave

FORTUNE

COVID-19 lockdowns in China threw a wrench into global supply chains earlier this year, causing shipping and production delays worldwide, and hindering economic growth. Now, the country is facing another major threat — and this one could be even worse for the economy. READ MORE

To Make Better Hires, Learn What Predicts Success

HARVARD BUSINESS REVIEW

The current talent struggles of U.S. companies are hardly a new trend. A PwC survey dating 15 years back cited that 93% of CEOs recognized the need to change their strategy for attracting and retaining talent. If organizations have been trying to improve their hiring outcomes for so long, then why are so many still struggling? The short answer is that companies often spend too little time improving how they define and track performance. READ MORE

Don’t Make These Common Car Rental Mistakes

THE SEATTLE TIMES

“Take the time to know the vehicle you are renting,” spokesperson Lisa Martini told me. “Learn how to operate essential functions, like where the seat levers are located and how to operate the infotainment system.” And, of course, what type of fuel the car requires. READ MORE

She Had an AirTag in Her Lost Luggage. It Led Police to a Baggage Handler’s Home.

THE NEW YORK TIMES

An airport worker in Florida was charged with two counts of grand theft after a tracking device aided a sheriff’s investigation. READ MORE

Best Softside Luggage of 2022

CBS NEWS

If you’re looking to invest in a new piece of luggage for an upcoming vacation or road trip, you have a lot of options. While some people may prefer pricier polycarbonate luggage or aluminum luggage, most shoppers opt for softside luggage. Made with materials such as polyester and woven nylon, softside luggage provides decent protection at a much more affordable price. Here are some of the best softside luggage options available online, based on user reviews. READ MORE

How to Work with the Right Instagram Influencers

SOCIAL MEDIA EXAMINER

Want to sell more on Instagram? Could working with micro-influencers help you reach more of the right people? In this article, you’ll learn how to find and work with niche Instagram influencers and discover why they can become the ideal ambassadors for your brand. READ MORE

10 Best Pieces of Luggage for International Travel

OPRAH DAILY

Check out our top picks for the best options on the block at every price point and luggage type (including duffle bags, hard luggage, and everything in between), whether you’re checking your bag or stowing it in the overhead bins, so you can put your mind at ease as you prepare for takeoff. READ MORE

Retailers Stumble Adjusting to More Selective Shoppers

THE NEW YORK TIMES

In earnings reports this week, companies showed it has been a struggle to adapt to a consumer mindset that is vastly different from what it was during much of the pandemic. READ MORE

Here’s How to Handle Lost Luggage, According to One Travel Expert

APARTMENT THERAPY

Among the many travel snafus you can experience when you fly the friendly skies, losing your luggage is perhaps the most unnerving — especially if it happens when you’re on your trip and you’re stuck wondering how you’ll manage without your belongings. Before you panic, there are several steps you should take to ensure you’ll be reunited with your stuff ASAP. READ MORE

Security Trends for Start-up Retailers to Drive Better Customer Experience and Business Intelligence

GRIT DAILY

How can physical security technologies benefit your business? Keep reading as this guide talks you through the latest security technologies and how retailers can use them to create a more cohesive overall security strategy and improve the customer experience. READ MORE

TGA

We can’t help ourselves — not when we have such a great exhibitor lineup for The 2023 Travel Goods Show. Here are just a few: Briggs & Riley. bugatti Group Inc. Cloudz®. Matador®. QBSleeves, Inc. READ MORE

Attendees, meet these exhibitors and more — register here for your badge.
Exhibitors, want your company name dropped — reserve your booth here.

The U.S. Supply Chain Is Now Facing Two Trade Hurdles

CNBC

Two of the major trade lanes for U.S. shippers are under strain this peak season. The heatwave in China has shut down key manufacturing and the growing backlog of European imports is expected to spill over into the first quarter of 2023. READ MORE

In a Bid to Win Back Consumer Spending, Retailers Are Betting on Travel

MODERNRETAIL

With restrictions easing, more people are spending money on travel again rather than discretionary goods. In an attempt to catch some of those spending dollars, retailers are striking new travel-focused partnerships, which may vary depending on where their core customer is jetting off to. Fashion and luxury brands have their sights set on the duty-free sections of airports, while mass-market retailers like Walmart are more focused on domestic travel. READ MORE

Tech Hacks to Make Traveling Right Now Less of a Headache

THE NEW YORK TIMES

The travel industry is recovering from the pandemic, but messily. These apps and tips can help us navigate the chaos and maximize our comfort. READ MORE

Checkout.com Enhances Authentication Tool to Reduce Abandoned Carts

PYMNTS.COM

Full-stack payments company Checkout.com is rolling out enhancements to its authentication product to help online businesses reduce abandoned carts as evolving strong customer authentication (SCA) requirements kick in across Europe. “With the flurry of work to comply with SCA requirements in the rear-view mirror, it’s time for businesses to focus on evolving and optimizing their authentication strategy, and in 2022, the stakes are high,” Checkout.com Product Director Rami Josef said in a blog post. READ MORE

At Last, Online Travel Planning Is Becoming (a Little) Easier

TRAVEL + LEISURE

Airbnb, Google Travel and a few other platforms have tweaked their search engines, and that means less slogging through pages and pages of results on everything from home rental options to flight routes. READ MORE

If You Practice Any of these 7 Habits Your Leadership Skills Are Probably Better Than Most Bosses

INC.

As a servant leader, your role is to lift your employees and help them joyfully achieve their goals. When they succeed, you succeed, and the whole organization succeeds. It’s a thing of beauty. When you choose to serve first, it’s for the other person’s benefit. You selflessly focus attention away from yourself and put the spotlight on others. Leaders operating from this orientation get the best out of their employees, which leads to great business results. READ MORE

Instagram: How to Use the Add Yours Sticker in Reels

ADWEEK

Instagram added the Add Yours sticker to Reels. This sticker allows creators to enter a prompt that will encourage their viewers to create their own videos in response. Our guide will show you how to use the Add Yours sticker in Instagram Reels. READ MORE

Retail CMO Budgets Increased in 2022: Gartner

RETAIL DIVE

As retailers face economic challenges from inflation, chief marketing officers are allocating more money on social media as well as offline advertising, according to research from Gartner shared with Retail Dive. The survey of 405 marketing decision makers across the globe between February and April showed that retail CMOs are spending 11.2% of their budgets on social advertising, more than any other channel and ahead of search ads. READ MORE

Should All Retailers Sell on Social Media?

RETAILWEEK

Many business owners are under pressure to sell on social media for fear of missing out, but what does the data say about retailing through social channels, asks James King, head of ecommerce consultancy at payments experts Elavon Europe. In an online survey with Ipsos, we asked 1,108 people aged 16 to 75 across the UK how much they spent on the last impulse purchase they made — if they ever have — through social media. Here are our findings. READ MORE

Consumers Are Expected to Have Spent Slightly More in July, But Prime Day May Have Boosted Sales

CNBC

Consumers are expected to have spent just slightly more in July, but they may have boosted what they spent online in a big way. Consumers are responsible for about two-thirds of the U.S. economy, so any insight into spending is important. Retail sales data is also affected by rising inflation, and the sales figure should reflect the impact of higher prices. READ MORE

TGA

Ever wonder how much innovation takes place in three years? Walk The Travel Goods Show from April 2-3, 2023 and witness it for yourself.

Sign up today and reserve priority booth placement — email TGA’s Cathy Trecartin at cat@travel-goods.org.

Buyers, don’t miss this showcase of brand-new products from emerging start-ups to the largest brands. Register to attend here.

2022 Retail Imports Set to Gain Over 2021 Despite Slowdown

GCAPTAIN

Retail imports at the nation’s top ports are expected to slow “significantly” over the remainder of the year, but 2022 cargo volumes should still see a net gain over 2021’s record, the National Retail Federation said earlier this week. READ MORE

‘The Disneyland Effect’: The Real Reason the U.S. Supply Chain Is Still Overloaded

YAHOO! FINANCE

As peak shipping season kicks off, America’s busiest ports are once again experiencing congestion and container vessels waiting off U.S. coastlines. Some experts are calling it “the Disneyland effect.” READ MORE

The Lesson for Main Street from the Walmart, Target Inventory Failures

CNBC

The retail battle narrative over the past few decades has cited one of two wars: Amazon and e-commerce against the big brick-and-mortar retailers, and everybody big against small Main Street entrepreneurs. But in the current confusing economic environment, small business experts say that Main Street should be more optimistic about the advantages of being small. READ MORE

The 21 Best Travel Bags, According to Frequent Fliers

SELF

Whether you have travel lined up or your friend’s recent travel posts are inspiring your next out-of-office getaway, it’s high time to shop for the best travel bags. The type of travel bag you decide to get will depend on your travel destination, your budget, and your personal style. But with so many choices, it’s hard to know what to pick. We spoke with frequent fliers and travel experts on the best tips to pick the right travel bag for comfortable, secure, and easy travel. Here are the expert-recommended picks and tips to help you choose. READ MORE

Social Media Marketing Tips to Grow Your Retail Business

RETAIL TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION HUB

According to a study by Sprout Social, as of January 2022, there are 3.96 billion users across all the social media platforms. Now, these users are potential customers willing to buy from brands that have a solid presence. However, most retail businesses are not using social media channels to their advantage. We have compiled a few tips that will help you tap into the power of social media for growth. READ MORE

Transportation Dept. Proposes New Rule to Ease Air Travel Chaos for Passengers

THE NEW YORK TIMES

If a new federal policy goes into effect, Americans will have more recourse when airlines cancel or significantly delay flights. READ MORE

Best Hacks for the Travel Apocalypse

REUTERS

Planning to squeeze some travel out of the rest of summer? Good luck — you will need it. Flight cancellations have already soared past last year’s total. Delays affected 890,000 flights in the first half of the year. Prices have shot up as pandemic-weary travelers are desperate to go anywhere. Luggage ‘graveyards’ are piling up at airports worldwide as missed connections increase. Welcome to the travel apocalypse. READ MORE

7 Tasks Every Leader Must Master

ENTREPRENEUR

Leading and managing people is a learned skill. If you’re seeking to be a better leader and create a high-performing organization, master these seven tasks. READ MORE

What Does the Buy Now Pay Later Trend Mean for Retail Payments?

TOTALRETAIL

The rapid escalation in BNPL use has driven a surge in the market overall, including Square acquiring Afterpay and PayPal acquiring Venmo and Paidy. Furthermore, BNPL options like Klarna, Affirm and others are quickly growing as well. What does this all mean for retailers and consumers? READ MORE

Embarrassing, Uncomfortable and Risky: What Flying Is Like for Passengers Who Use Wheelchairs

THE NEW YORK TIMES

For passengers who use wheelchairs, air travel in the U.S. can be an embarrassing, uncomfortable and perilous prospect. To better understand the obstacles faced by wheelchair users, The Times sent a reporter and a photographer to document one man’s domestic trip. Here’s what they saw. READ MORE

Australian Airline Asks Senior Executives to Volunteer as Baggage Handlers to Fight Labor Shortage

FORTUNE

Qantas Airways, Australia’s largest domestic and international airline, is accepting volunteers from senior staff and management to help with baggage handling delays on the ground, and is seeking at least 100 executive volunteers over the next three months to help address the issue. READ MORE

TGA

What’s new? We’d love to hear about your newest products and innovations, latest company milestones and achievements, new hires and promotions. Have you been interviewed? Invited to speak? Have a product co-star in a movie? Share your news with us and we’ll help spread the word. Submit your news to Kim Wong at kim@travel-goods.org or 877-842-1938 x-705.

TGA Urges U.S. Government to Immediately End China Section 301 Tariffs on Travel Goods

TGA

On July 21, TGA testified before the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) at a hearing on the USITC’s investigation into the impact of the China Section 301 tariffs. In its testimony, TGA argued that the 25% punitive China 301 tariffs on U.S. imports of travel goods from China have failed in their goals and have only served to raise costs for American businesses and raise prices for American families. The USITC is expected to publish its report and make recommendations later this year.

Biden Undecided on China Tariffs Ahead of Xi Call: White House

FRANCE 24

John Kirby, spokesman for the National Security Council, said the administration believes the tariffs imposed during a trade war under former president Donald Trump are not working, but that Biden has yet to settle on a next move. READ MORE

Truckers End Port of Oakland Protest Blockade Over AB5 Law — for Now

THE LOADSTAR

Cargo was finally flowing again through the U.S. port of Oakland on Monday after a blockade by truckers had paralyzed freight traffic over the past week. And agriculture shippers hope there will be no repeat of the blockage. READ MORE

Visa’s Profits Jump 32% As Consumers Start Traveling Again

MIAMI HERALD

Visa Inc. said earlier this week that its fiscal third quarter profits rose 32% from a year earlier, helped by yet another double-digit rise in the amount of money processed on its credit and debit card network. READ MORE

Strong Dollar Vs. Euro: Time to Book European Travel?

FOX NEWS

Travel experts have mixed views on whether now is a good time for tourists to visit European countries that use the euro as currency. Some encourage tourists to take advantage of this opportunity, while others advise against it and recommend holding off until the fall when demand wanes and disruptions at airports ease. READ MORE

10 Travel Accessories Under $10 You Won’t Regret Buying

MATADOR NETWORK

When it comes to travel accessories, some of the best ones are quite expensive. In most cases, it makes sense — there’s quite a lot of tech jammed into my noise-canceling earbuds, and it can be hard to find one pair of shorts that can tackle every summer travel activity. But sometimes, you luck out and find that the best travel accessories and the best cheap travel accessories overlap. READ MORE

Trying to Get an Airline, Hotel or Cruise Line’s Attention? Try These Social Media Strategies

USA TODAY

For years, travelers have turned to Facebook, Twitter and other sites to extract quick refunds and apologies from travel companies. But their tactics have become more sophisticated lately. READ MORE

A Luggage Tracker Is the Most Crucial Travel Accessory of the Summer

GQ

Investing in a luggage tracker should be a no-brainer: simply leave the little device in your bag, and if (when?) it goes missing, you’ll be able to locate it lickety-split. If you’re getting the gnawing feeling that something’s amiss — a sensation multiple people have reported as summer travel kicks back into high gear — they’re worth every cent. READ MORE

4 Leadership Tips to Prevent Good Employees from Leaving

BENEFITSPRO

In today’s competitive job market, employers must work hard to keep their top-tier employees from leaving while actively hiring new talent. READ MORE

Shopify Lays Off 1,000 Employees Amid Shifting Retail Trends

MOTLEY FOOL

The pandemic was supposed to impact consumer habits with the force of a giant asteroid. Instead, it may be something closer to a small stone skipping across water and spurring a few ripples. For proof, look no further than Shopify. READ MORE

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