TGA Industry News Briefs

November 10, 2022

It’s All About You

Your news. Your announcements. Your accomplishments. We want to tell the industry all about you — your new products and innovations, fun product placements and giveaways, good deeds and awesome achievements. The editorial team of Travel Goods Magazine curates timely news stories and product features and wants to shine a light on your company and products. Questions? Submissions? Contact TGA’s Kim Wong, kim@travel-goods.org.

TOP NEWS

It’s All About You

TGA

Your news. Your announcements. Your accomplishments. We want to tell the industry all about you — your new products and innovations, fun product placements and giveaways, good deeds and awesome achievements. The editorial team of Travel Goods Magazine curates timely news stories and product features and wants to shine a light on your company and products. Questions? Submissions? Contact TGA’s Kim Wong, kim@travel-goods.org.

Americans Still Plan to Travel for the Holidays but Are Looking to Cut Costs

THE POINTS GUY

Though the leaves are just beginning to fall in many parts of the country, the holidays are almost upon us. And for people who plan to travel, whether to visit family or take advantage of unused vacation days, rising prices are affecting every aspect of the booking process and the travel experience. READ MORE

Rail Labor Negotiations: Tracking the Path to Ratification

SUPPLY CHAIN DIVE

IAM District 19 ratified its agreement nearly two months after initially voting it down. A strike among rail workers could still occur as soon as November 19. READ MORE

Trade Reports Find Tariffs Hurt Consumers, Particularly Women

FORBES

Economists have long known that tariffs harm consumers. A new analysis finds tariffs likely hurt female consumers more because of the tariff rates assigned to many products made for women. Earlier research from the U.S. International Trade Commission reached the same conclusion. READ MORE

Supply Chain Woes Accelerate Reshoring, Nearshoring Trend

TRANSPORT TOPICS

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic followed by supply chain disruptions around the world has sparked a resurgence of companies bringing sourcing and manufacturing back to the U.S. or closer to U.S. shores. READ MORE

The Best Kids Luggage, According to Experts

GOOD HOUSEKEEPING

At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we test all kinds of luggage from well-known brands, evaluating them for performance and durability. For this article, we chose pieces from top-performing brands, kids’ luggage that our experts have tried and love, the kid-sized versions of our favorite standard luggage pieces and luggage that’s popular online with rave reviews. READ MORE

Layoffs Are Painful. But You Can Communicate Them Compassionately

HARVARD BUSINESS REVIEW

Large-scale layoffs, or reductions in force (RIFs), are, regrettably, a fact of life in business. The first priority in an RIF should be treating impacted employees with respect and compassion. Executives also must be concerned about the impact on the remaining employees and on the company’s reputation. This is where communication plays a vital role. Here are key considerations in planning and implementing effective communications for an RIF. READ MORE

The Best Bags to Fit Various Airlines’ Hand Luggage Allowances

SIMPLE FLYING

Domestic or international, every airline has its own rules when it comes to carry-on luggage. Rules also differ depending on whether you are flying economy or have paid for a premium ticket. Here, we list the carry-on restrictions for full-service carriers and budget airlines for people traveling in economy. READ MORE

Retail Credit Card Interest Rate Hits Record High

THE HILL

The average credit card interest rate for retail stores has hit a record high of 26.72% while general purpose credit cards now charge an average of 22.6%, according to a study released this week by industry group Creditcards.com. READ MORE

Can Resale Save Brick-and-Mortar Retail?

RETAIL DIVE

U.S. consumers have embraced resale far more than most retailers realize, according to research from WD Partners. A huge 92% said they shop, buy, sell or trade secondhand items at least once each year, according to the firm’s report, “Can Resale Save the Store?” READ MORE

10 Genius Products to Organize Your Luggage for Holiday Travel — All Under $25

TRAVEL + LEISURE

The extra hectic circumstances surrounding the holiday season make it more important than ever for every type of traveler to stay streamlined and orderly amid the chaos. From packing cubes and tech accessory organizers to toiletry solutions and even trolley cup holders, these thoughtfully designed products offer game-changing functionality with prices starting at just $10. READ MORE

I Spent $116,000 to Travel the World — With My Cat

NEW YORK POST

JJ Yosh, 38, has spent nearly $116,000 traveling all across the U.S. with his adventurous pet, Simon. The six-year-old Bombay cat doesn’t just live a lush life of luxury in his not-so-humble abode, he travels all across the country kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, rock climbing, camping, hiking and backpacking. READ MORE

TGA

In Travel Problem-Solvers, we asked travel goods professionals what unique problem-solving product they can’t travel without. And they delivered, with convertible bags (at every price point!), clothing packing solutions, and accessories that keep all your necessities accessible as you dash through the airport, line up for a cruise ship, or trek through a theme park. In the latest Industry Buzz you’ll find products to help you connect in many ways. Plus, many new pieces of ingenious travel gear you’ll want to know about.

TGA Urges President Biden to Prevent Rail Strike

TGA

On October 27, TGA joined over 300 business organizations in urging President Biden to prevent a rail strike. On October 26, the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen voted 61% to 39% to become the second rail union to reject the rail contract. To date, 6 of the 12 rail unions have ratified the contract, with four more unions, include the two largest, scheduled to vote on the contract by mid-November.

Holiday Hangovers: Can Retailers Clear Out Their Inventory Piles as the Season Ramps Up?

RETAIL DIVE

In late September, Nike joined the cadre of companies to announce something along the lines of “decisive action” on inventory. That was the phrase used – twice – by Nike Chief Financial Officer Matthew Friend on a call with analysts, one that mentioned the word “inventory” 48 times. READ MORE

Shipping Rates Are No Longer Plunging. Is ‘New Normal’ Near?

AMERICAN SHIPPER

Ocean shipping spot rate indexes are still falling. But after months of steep declines, they’re dropping much less rapidly than before. It could be just a temporary plateau before the next leg down. Or it could be something more significant: the first sign of the market bottom, the post-pandemic “new normal.” READ MORE

Delta Pilots Weigh Strike Amid Contract Negotiations as Holidays Near

AXIOS

The pilots working for two of the U.S.’s largest airlines are calling on the companies to meet their demands as they continue negotiations for new contracts amid unprecedented demand for air travel and staffing shortages. READ MORE

32 Predictions for Social Media Marketing in 2023

SOCIAL MEDIA TODAY

What a chaotic 12 months it’s been for the major social networks. Meta continued its gradual decline, TikTok continues to rise, and Twitter is right now in the midst of a chaotic management shift, which could basically see anything happen at the app. With all that’s going on, it’s difficult to predict what might be coming next, but we’ll give it a shot, with our 2023 predictions for each of the major social apps. READ MORE

Holiday Flights Will Be Pricey and Packed. Here Are 5 Things to Know Before You Book

NPR

Time is running out if you’re hoping to book a relatively inexpensive flight over the holidays. Airlines say that demand is sky high and, as a result, airfares are soaring. READ MORE

A Hidden Roadblock for Effective Leadership: You’re Attached to Your Story

FORBES

When you get a new eyeglasses prescription, you have to be willing to let your old glasses go. Sure, you can keep the frames, but there has to be an actual replacement of the lenses so you can see clearly. You can’t just add one lens on top of the other. I know that sounds ridiculous, but this is exactly what people often try to do when it comes to changing their perceptual lens. Let go of your story. READ MORE

Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2022 Dates and How the Retail Holidays Came to Be

USA TODAY

Sales are nearly upon us, and some have already begun. If you’re looking to mark your calendars and learn about the history of retail holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday and more, read on. READ MORE

These Are the 11 Best Travel Fanny Packs for Easy, Hands-Free Travel

THE POINTS GUY

Unlike the fanny packs of yesteryear, today’s travel fanny packs have taken on a new identity. Also referred to as sling bags, crossbody bags and belt bags, this latest iteration of the classic accessory is now most commonly slung across the chest with the pack part in either the front or back instead of across the waist. Whether this is your first (or second) era with the fanny pack, they are undeniably handy — so here are our top picks for travel. READ MORE

Why Some of Your Salespeople Are Dragging — and How to Fix It

HARVARD BUSINESS REVIEW

Sales leaders recognize the acute talent challenge on their hands, particularly in the era of catchily named, viral workplace trends (looking at you, quiet quitting). They clutch the old playbook in the hopes of finding some way to motivate their people by making tweaks to compensation, recognition, and reward. The problem is, nearly six in 10 sellers describe the leadership of their sales organization as not understanding what “really” motivates sellers. READ MORE

LOL: Guy Tracks Stolen Luggage to House in Anchorage Using AirTags

ONE MILE AT A TIME

A Twitter user named Errol Webber recently Tweeted about how he had something stolen out of his checked luggage while flying with United Airlines. Typically, this would be a really frustrated Tweet where you’d feel helpless, but the tone here is quite different, thanks to AirTags. READ MORE

TGA

Consumers are shopping for deals, and Travel Goods Magazine is showcasing gear that’s heavy on bang and light on bucks. We’re looking for a range of bags and accessories with one thing in common: exceptional value for the money. Submissions must be received by November 2, 2022 for inclusion. READ MORE

We Need You to Lobby/Contact Congress to Urge Congress to Approve GSP Renewal/Relief ASAP

TGA

We need you, your staff, your colleagues, your friends, and your family to urge Congress to approve the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program this year, or provide immediate relief. It only takes 2 minutes to send letters to your members of Congress. TGA is conducting a series of virtual (Zoom) lobbying meetings with Congressional offices on GSP. Please contact TGA’s Nate Herman if you are interested in participating in the virtual (Zoom) lobby meetings or would like to learn more. GSP has now been expired for 20 months. Short of renewal, TGA urges Congress to approve 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.

Renewed Threat of Rail Strike Has Supply Chain Managers Ramping Up Contingency Plans

CNBC

Logistics managers are dusting off their plans for a possible railroad strike in November that could wreak havoc on the supply chain and cost the U.S. economy up to $2 billion a day. READ MORE

Railroads Reject Sick Time Demands, Raising Chance of Strike

AP NEWS

The major freight railroads appear unwilling to give track maintenance workers much more than they received in the initial contract they rejected last week, increasing the chances of a strike. READ MORE

2022 Travel Inflation Statistics

BANKRATE

The holidays can bring up a lot of unusual expenses, from gifts and meals to the snowballing costs that come with travel. Amid inflation and rising interest, 40% of millennial holiday travelers say their budgets will be strained, along with 31% of Gen Xers, 28% of Gen Zers and 23% of Boomers. As the costs of flights, gas, hotels and more rise, no matter your age, you may be wondering how to make travel costs fit into your budget. Here’s how travel inflation may be impacting your holiday plans. READ MORE

Top Three Retail Industry Trends of 2022 and 2023

MS DYNAMICS WORLD

Early in the COVID pandemic, McKinsey predicted that the retail industry stood at the top of the list in terms of digital adoption by consumers. The online purchase of goods such as apparel grew by 40% while groceries shot up 100%. The virtual genie is out of the bottle and retail companies have begun investing in novel technologies to stay relevant and in competition. Before making any sort of investment, it is imperative for retailers to be aware of the industry trends of 2022 and 2023. Let’s look at three of the biggest retail industry trends today. READ MORE

Find Leadership Opportunities in Your Weaknesses

INC.

The composition of a SWOT — Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats — analysis is a key and critical part of the strategic planning process for any organization. The best leaders are those that recognize the connection between each element of the SWOT and strategy formation — especially their weaknesses, which are often glossed over or outright avoided by less effective bosses. READ MORE

25 Breathtaking Places and Experiences for 2023

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

Travel inspiration is everywhere you look. The question is where to go next. Here’s our annual list of superlative destinations for the year ahead — places filled with wonder, rewarding to travelers of all ages, and supportive of local communities and ecosystems. Reported by our global editors and framed by five categories — Community, Nature, Culture, Family, and Adventure — these 25 destinations for 2023 are under the radar, ahead of the curve, and ready for you to start exploring. READ MORE

13 Travel Essentials That Make Flying with a Carry-on Totally Doable

IN THE KNOW

It’s not always easy to pack entirely in a carry-on, especially if you’re traveling for a longer period of time or if you are like me and like to pack things “just in case.” Here are 13 things that will instantly make traveling with a carry-on easier. READ MORE

Holiday Travel Prices Are Climbing High. Here’s How to Save Money.

THE WASHINGTON POST

After blazing high prices and extraordinary levels of disruption failed to keep pandemic-weary travelers at home this summer, you should expect a similarly chaotic — and expensive — holiday travel season, industry analysts said. The same factors that drove up prices this summer remain in play as well: inflation, gas prices, labor shortages and surging demand. The coronavirus, too, remains a persistent threat. READ MORE

Is TikTok the Best Kept Secret for Hospitality and Travel Marketing?

HOSPITALITYNET

If you think TikTok is a corner of social media reserved solely for digitally-savvy teens with a penchant for dancing or lip-syncing in front of the camera — think again. While the platform initially made waves due to its virality amongst a younger demographic (here’s to you, Generation Z), TikTok has since evolved to not only become a worldwide phenomenon spanning across age groups but a critical marketing tool for both B2C and B2B brands. READ MORE

When Speaking Up, Timing Is Everything

HARVARD BUSINESS REVIEW

Decades of research have shown that when employees offer ideas or flag concerns, their voice is not always appreciated or valued by their superiors. The contribution may be seen as disruptive or a waste of time. Managers may even take it as an implicit criticism of themselves. Speaking up with work-related issues, therefore, is very much a risk-reward game. If you raise a valuable idea or concern that your boss is receptive to, she will recognize and reward you for it. But raise something deemed distracting or disruptive, and you may be penalized. READ MORE

TGA

TGA’s “Packed in a Minute” video series features a wallet that never makes you look fat and a hack for improving your air quality. Check out the latest bucket lists and information on online passport renewal — it’s all in TravelBits.

Dare to Share

TGA

We want to hear it. And so do your colleagues. Share your news with us — your new hires, TV appearances, product innovations, milestones and achievements — and let us share it with the industry. Submit your news to Kim Wong at kim@travel-goods.org or 877-842-1938, x-705.

We Need You to Lobby/Contact Congress to Urge Congress to Approve GSP Renewal/Relief ASAP

TGA

We need you, your staff, your colleagues, your friends, and your family to urge Congress to approve the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program this year, or provide immediate relief. It only takes 2 minutes to send letters to your members of Congress. TGA is also conducting a series of virtual (Zoom) lobbying meetings with Congressional offices on GSP. Please contact TGA’s Nate Herman if you are interested in participating in the virtual (Zoom) lobby meetings or would like to learn more. GSP has now been expired for 20 months. Short of renewal, TGA urges Congress to approve 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.

After Two Years of Shipping Snarls, Things Are Starting to Turn Around

CNBC

After two years of port congestions and container shortages, disruptions are now easing as Chinese exports slow in light of waning demand from Western economies and softer global economic conditions, logistics data shows. READ MORE

Beijing Backpedaling on Planned Biden-Xi Meeting at G-20

POLITICO

Chinese government officials are stonewalling U.S. efforts to solidify a long-planned face-to-face meeting between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the G-20 meeting in Bali next month. Beijing won’t engage with U.S. officials trying to draft an agenda for the meeting, according to a person familiar with the planning — a move that could prevent it from happening at all. READ MORE

Ocean Freight Rates Are Down, So Why Aren’t Prices on Shelves Dropping?

THE WASHINGTON POST

Businesses are finally getting some relief with supply chain costs. But shoppers probably won’t see any additional savings this holiday season, experts say. READ MORE

Retailers’ Holiday Wish: That Strapped Shoppers Will Spend

THE NEW YORK TIMES

In 2020, it was pandemic closures and social distancing. Last year, it was the supply chain. Now, the problem is demand. For retailers, that may make this holiday season their biggest test yet. READ MORE

Goodbye Planes, Trains and Automobiles. Hello, Luxury Bus?

THE NEW YORK TIMES

Start-up travel companies are hoping more Americans will embrace the concept of sleeper and luxury coaches. Just don’t call them buses. READ MORE

Grey Gap Year: The Over-60s with a Taste for Travel on a Budget

THE GUARDIAN

Boomers are eschewing the traditional cruise holiday in favor of exploring the world with a backpack or in a camper van. While the stereotype of the boomer traveler is a luxury cruise trip funded by housing market gains, people aged over 60 who spoke to the Guardian felt privileged to be able to take the shoestring approach usually associated with younger people. READ MORE

Trade Shows: 8 Tips for Getting the Most from Your Next Event

TWICE

B2B trade shows are great. When you’re an attendee you can expect a smorgasbord of vendors vying for your attention, and if you’re a vendor, there are plenty of businesses walking right by your booth to turn into fans of your products and services. Regardless of your role, all you have to do is pack a small bag, travel to the venue, and hit the show floor, right? Unfortunately, if you use that approach, it won’t take long to realize that your failure to plan is indeed a plan to fail. Here are eight pro-tested tips to help you get the most out of your trade show attendance. READ MORE

Corporate Travel Returns: The Evolution of Sustainability, Travelers, Ground Transportation, and More

GLOBAL BUSINESS TRAVEL ASSOCIATION

Chris Ely, Research Director at GBTA and Ashley Sulewski, Global Strategic Manager at Uber for Business, discuss travel managers’ thoughts on how ground transportation has evolved post-pandemic in relation to sustainability, managed meal programs, bleisure, and more. READ MORE

Holiday Return Policies: What to Know

FOX BUSINESS

Major retailers are already bracing for a tsunami of returns during and after the upcoming holiday shopping season. Stores typically offer free returns for holiday goods albeit with some exceptions. However, some companies are rethinking this strategy amid rising transportation and other inflationary costs. READ MORE

How to Audit Social Media Marketing: A 9-Step Checklist

SOCIAL MEDIA EXAMINER

Need to develop a new social media marketing strategy? Wondering how to audit your current social actions to see what’s working and what isn’t? In this article, you’ll discover a nine-step checklist to audit and adjust your social media strategy for the future. READ MORE

Leadership Lessons I Learned from a Baboon

INC.

The same principles of nature are true of business and entrepreneurship. It’s harsh. It’s non-stop. It’s unforgiving. And the rules of the game are constantly changing. When you see an impala in the morning, you think, “Good, Mr. Impala, you survived another day,” just as you do each morning when you’re in business. You either adapt to the situation, or you die. It’s that simple. READ MORE

TGA

The 30-day voting period has ended, and during that time TGA members cast their e-votes in support of TGA’s Slate of Nominees for the 2022-2023 TGA Board of Directors. Thanks to everyone who exercised their very important privilege as a member of this Association and voted!

2022-2023 TGA Board of Directors

OFFICERS
Cliff Ensley, Leisure Merchandising Corp., Chair
Richard Krulik, Solo/Briggs & Riley Travelware, Chair Elect
Josh Cross, Elios, Vice Chair
Scott Kosmin, 24-7 International, Treasurer
Jerry Kallman, Airline International Luggage, Secretary

DIRECTORS
Jacob Durham, NOMATIC
Jesse Sutton, Sutton Home Fashions
John Yu, Olympia International

We Need You to Lobby/Contact Congress to Urge Congress to Approve GSP Renewal/Relief ASAP

TGA

We need you, your staff, your colleagues, your friends, and your family to urge Congress to approve the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program this year, or provide immediate relief. It only takes 2 minutes to send letters to your members of Congress. TGA is conducting a series of virtual (Zoom) lobbying meetings with Congressional offices on GSP. Please contact TGA’s Nate Herman if you are interested in participating in the virtual (Zoom) lobby meetings or would like to learn more. GSP has now been expired for 20 months. Short of renewal, TGA urges Congress to approve 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.

Union Rejects Rail Contract, Creating Uncertainty — Tell Congress to Prevent a Rail Strike

TGA

On October 10, the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees Division (BMWED), which represents 12,000 of the 110,000 total rail workers, rejected a tentative contract with the railroads (BMWED announcement, railroad response). The two sides will try to negotiate a new contract during the cooling off period, which ends November 14. The union could call a strike after November 14. The rank and file of four of the 12 rail worker unions have formally ratified the contract to date. The remainder of the unions, including the two biggest, have until mid-November to ratify the contract. On September 15, after President Biden intervened, the railroads and rail workers reached a tentative deal. The deal came after TGA and others urged Congress to step in to prevent a strike. To keep up pressure to ratify the deal, TGA urges you, your staff, your colleagues, your family, and your friends to urge Congress to make sure the deal is finalized and a strike is averted. It only takes one minute through this link to send letters.

Blank Sailings Fail to Prop Up Rates: ‘We Need Capacity Withdrawn Permanently’

THE LOADSTAR

China is back at work after its Golden Week holiday, but carrier-blanked sailings have been “ineffective” at stopping the rapid decline in freight rates. READ MORE

How to Apply ‘The Amazon Effect’ to Your E-Commerce Business

TOTAL RETAIL

It’s hard to overestimate the reach that Amazon.com has these days. What started as an online book retailer has become more than a marketplace; it’s a place for market solutions. Love it or hate it, Amazon is truly a phenomenon of the 21st century. READ MORE

5 Tips to Help Maximize Your Instagram Presence This Holiday Season

SOCIAL MEDIA TODAY

Looking to build out your Instagram approach for the holiday push? While TikTok has stolen some of its thunder, and there’s a level of confusion around Instagram’s broader push to get more video content into people’s feeds, it still remains a hugely popular app, and it can be a great platform for building community, and maximizing reach, when used the right way. READ MORE

Knowing When It’s Time to Quit Your Job

PSYCHOLOGY TODAY

Knowing when it’s time to leave your job can be challenging. After all, it’s not like there’s a giant neon sign that appears overhead when it’s time to move on. However, some red flags indicate that it might be time for you to start looking for a new job. READ MORE

Delta Air Lines Increases Status Thresholds for SkyMiles, Adds Some Benefits

TRAVEL MARKET TODAY

Delta Air Lines is upping what it takes to qualify for Medallion Status for its SkyMiles loyalty program. The carrier announced this week that starting next year, it will take more to earn a higher status with Delta Air Lines. The new thresholds start on January 1, 2023, the earn year to qualify for 2024 Medallion Status. Status for 2023 remains unchanged. READ MORE

Best Travel Gear: 40 Items for Your Travel Bag (+ The Bag!)

TWOSCOTSABROAD.COM

Looking for the best travel gear to invest in for your next big adventure? Whether you are planning the trip of a lifetime further afield or a staycation close to home, a hiking holiday or a city break, our preferred travel equipment guide has got you covered. READ MORE

How to Move Forward When You Feel Frozen

HARVARD BUSINESS REVIEW

Executives and managers are tasked with juggling increasing pressures in the marketplace and workforce, managing a hybrid workplace, addressing challenges such as global warming through workplace strategies, and persisting in the face of uncertainty. Beyond that, the increase in social and political unrest and violence means that broader world concerns are affecting their employees in a variety of ways. READ MORE

4 Strategies for Using Data, AI to Personalize Customer Experience

RETAIL CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

How do retail brands deliver a customer’s Last Best Experience in this hypercompetitive experience economy? By leveraging data and AI for a more personalized CX. READ MORE

United Adds New Trans-Atlantic Flights for Summer 2023 in Bet on Travel Recovery

CNBC

United Airlines is planning another big schedule increase for trans-Atlantic travel, in a bet that consumers will continue to shell out for international trips, some of which they had put off for years. READ MORE

IMF Warns ‘Worst is Yet to Come’ for Global Economy as Recession Risks Rise

FOX BUSINESS

The International Monetary Fund on Tuesday slashed its global growth outlook for next year, warning the world economy is headed for “stormy waters” and that there is a growing risk of a painful worldwide recession if major central banks fumble the fight against inflation. READ MORE

What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag

U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT

Packing for a flight is exciting — but it can also be overwhelming. With a little planning and a concise list of what to pack in a carry-on bag, you can maximize space in your duffel bag, weekender bag, backpack and more while staying within airlines’ carry-on size requirements. What’s more, you’ll have all your must-haves and travel essentials readily available in your personal carry-on bag, as well as some extra finds to make the journey more comfortable. Utilizing your carry-on bag and personal item capacity can even reduce baggage fees and decrease lost baggage incidents. READ MORE

Survey Reveals Passengers’ Actual Thoughts When It Comes to Reclining Seats, Sharing Armrests and More

TRAVEL + LEISURE

The age-old question of whether to recline or not to recline your airplane seat has plagued travelers for years. Well, turns out, more than two-thirds of passengers think it’s rude — but that doesn’t mean they aren’t doing it anyway. READ MORE

TGA

…They will come. Buyers, that is. These travel goods manufacturers have joined the ever-growing list of exhibitors showing their new products at The 2023 Travel Goods Show: Olympia USA, MiWorld™, KARGO USA, Walter + Ray and McKlein USA®. Attendees, here’s your chance to see what’s new in travel goods. READ MORE

Buyers, register for your FREE badge here.
Exhibitors, time to booth it and show buyers what you’ve got. Reserve your booth here.

We’re Sharing Stories, Smelling Roses, Giving Hugs

TGA

Click into TGA’s new, ongoing series and learn about the industry’s specialty retailers. “Getting to Know You” shares their stories, challenges, successes — and how childhood interests helped shaped their careers. Roses, hugs and Emmy Awards? Find out what all the Buzz is about here.

TGA Urges Renewal of China Section 301 Tariff Exclusion Process

TGA

On October 4, TGA joined 171 other industry groups in urging the Biden administration to renew the China Section 301 tariff exclusion process. U.S. travel goods imports from China today are still subject to 25% punitive tariffs. As of September 14, American companies paid more China Section 301 duties under the Biden administration than under the Trump administration.

We Need You to Urge Congress to Approve GSP Renewal/Relief ASAP

TGA

We need you, your staff, your colleagues, your friends, and your family to urge Congress to approve the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program this year, or provide immediate relief. It only takes 2 minutes to send letters to your members of Congress. GSP has now been expired for 20 months. Short of renewal, TGA urges Congress to approve 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 GSP 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.

Ocean Freight Orders Are Signaling a Big Drop in Consumer Demand

CNBC

A significant consumer pullback is showing up in ocean shipping, with logistics managers telling CNBC they have seen a 20% drop in ocean freight orders for the months of September and October. The decline in demand cuts across many products, including machinery, housing, industrial and some apparel. READ MORE

Ocean Carriers Up Blank Sailings to Brace for Softening October Demand

SUPPLY CHAIN DIVE

Volatile market conditions in ocean shipping are leading ocean carriers to increase the number of blank sailings next month compared to previous years, according to Sea-Intelligence. The research and analysis agency said stalled demand, not fully utilized vessels and dropping freight rates are giving carriers the opportunity to blank more sailings than usual in 2022. READ MORE

6 Things to Know About the 2022 Holiday Shopping Season

NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION

Long before Halloween candy goes on sale, retailers are beginning to put out their holiday merchandise and offer deals targeting early shoppers. Is this the new normal? Are shoppers ready? What role does the economy play? Read on for answers to commonly asked questions about the holiday shopping season. READ MORE

25 Travel Essentials You Should Always Pack — No Matter What

ESQUIRE

Book your vacation and take a look at this packing list that you can finally rely on. Trust me, never ever leave home without checking these items off your list. READ MORE

Half of Large Retailers Say In-Store Mobile Tech Lacking

PYMNTS.COM

When retailers are recovering from a tumultuous fiscal year, they often look to innovation, since making shopping easier or more enjoyable for their customers is common sense in a competitive market. Consumers shopping in-store now expect the latest digital conveniences, however, pressing retailers to introduce innovations simply to retain their existing customers. For example, PYMNTS’ data finds that 81% of retailers now see mobile app access as table stakes for customer loyalty. READ MORE

CDC Suspends Country-Specific COVID-19 Travel Advisories

CNN

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will no longer maintain a country-by-country list of travel advisories related to COVID-19, the agency said Monday. “As fewer countries are testing or reporting COVID-19 cases, CDC’s ability to accurately assess the COVID-19 THN [Travel Health Notice] levels for most destinations that American travelers visit is limited,” an agency spokesperson said in a statement to CNN Travel. READ MORE

BeReal Takes Off: New Social Media App Is Considered ‘Anti-Instagram’

NEW YORK POST

A new app called BeReal is bringing authenticity back into the social media landscape — and it’s seriously taking off. (Even “SNL” referenced it in a skit this past weekend.) BeReal was originally launched in December 2019 by French founder and former GoPro employee Alexis Barreyat, according to TechCrunch. READ MORE

These Are the Best Products and Services to Help Make Travel More Seamless

FORBES

While there’s no controlling the weather or fuel prices, there is plenty travelers can do to feel empowered about seeing the world. With all these variables in flux, here are various products and services that anyone can obtain to improve the travel experience. READ MORE

3 Experts Share Predictions for the 2022 Holiday Retail Sales Season

RETAIL CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

With so much economic turmoil, and shoppers flowing back into stores, the 2022 holiday sales season is likely not to be typical in any manner. READ MORE

Is Bad Onboarding Stifling Your New Senior Leaders?

HARVARD BUSINESS REVIEW

Onboarding is traditionally an exercise in orienting new employees to the status quo: the existing people, rules, culture, norms, processes, procedures, and behaviors that they will need to be successful in their new job. But leaders today are brought into organizations to create change. The typical orientation process can stifle the new leader’s innovative spirit. To set up a new leader to create change, build their onboarding process around a specific near-term challenge, customize it around a particular question, or ask them to regularly report critical observations of what they learn to a group of stakeholders. READ MORE

Travel Advisors Dish on Their Craziest Client Requests

TRAVEL MARKET REPORT

Train or bus tickets to Hawaii. Ocean-view rooms in land-locked locales. Tours to exotic destinations for less than $1,000. Reservations for the spouse and paramour? Travel advisors have to deal with lots of laughable demands. But some requests leave even the most seasoned travel advisors scratching their heads. READ MORE

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

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