Last week saw the travel retail world de-camp to Cannes in the south of France for the annual TFWA world exhibition. As usual, just-drinks made the arduous journey down to the Riviera and – while there was plenty of fun to be had – paced the halls of the Palais des Festivals with sun-assisted vigour.

News highlights from our trip included the revelation that Bruichladdich went with Remy Cointreau because the French firm did not previously have a presence in Scotch whisky. The COO of Patron, meanwhile, was keen to tell us how Tequila is making healthy in-roads in the travel retail sector at the expense of Scotch whisky and vodka.

Back at just-drinks towers, I hosted our latest webinar on Wednesday, which saw us team with the International Center for Alcohol Policies to look at industry actions to reduce harmful drinking. Thanks to those of you who joined us and for all the positive feedback. If you'd like to hear the webinar again, send me an email and I'll give you the link.

Looking ahead, I'm in the US next week – Hurricane Sandy notwithstanding – at Diageo's annual investor day. Last year, the company showcased its North American business. On Monday and Tuesday, we'll be looking at greater depth at Latin America, and Diageo's plans for the region. I've got some one-on-one time scheduled with the company's head of Latin America, Randy Millian. Drop me a line if you have any questions for Randy.