World Holiday and Travel Fair rocks the travel industry
More than 40 delegates from the travel and tourism industry were recently hosted at a Lionel Richie cocktail and concert spectacular held at the Coca-Cola Dome in Northgate, Johannesburg. According to WHTF General Manager, Glynis Anderson, the outstanding attendance coupled with the visible energy and excitement around the room confirmed the growing interest in the upcoming World Holiday and Travel Fair.
Anderson adds: “World Holiday and Travel Fair (WHTF) is unique. It is the only outbound travel exhibition in South Africa that will provide a one-stop-travel platform for the trade to showcase and market their offerings to a willing public eager to learn about new and exciting travel options and to shop for show specials. Bookings for the fair are hotting up as the industry ensures they don’t miss out on this unique marketing and sales opportunity.”
Anderson, who recently attended the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, where she met with a number of tourism boards and travel product owners advises that the general sentiment across the globe seems to be that the industry is rethinking its marketing strategies in view of current economic dynamics. “The message to the outbound travel market is clear; now, more than ever, marketing remains critical! Both globally and locally, travel remains a favourite leisure spend, but consumers want more value for their money. This, is where countries in Africa and other value-for money destinations such as the Far East and South America can capitalise on growth opportunities in the South African market”, continues Anderson.
Citing a recent article by Solly Mokgehle from Avusa Media (quoting global advertising guru David Ogilvy’s book, ‘Ogilvy on Advertising’), Anderson points out that Ogilvy reminds marketers that consumers are fickle and seldom loyal to a brand that does not keep up its marketing.
“Quite simply”, continues Anderson “as the writer of an article published in Entrepreneur Magazine in May this year recommends; businesses need to be become smart about capitalising on prevailing market conditions and tapping new ways of sustainability and growth.”
“Even in trying economic times (according to Ogilvy), consumers still buy and, as the old adage says; out of sight, out of mind – if your product or service is not out there, they are not going to stay loyal and direct any of their spending towards you.”
“WHTF is South Africa’s only international outbound travel expo and offers a platform for tourism offices and representatives, product owners and travel and tour operators to showcase their products to a willing travel public. What’s more”, concludes Anderson, “the show has been designed to offer consumers the best deals in town and real value-for-money travel options. Our ‘one-stop-travel-shop’ approach will provide the platform for the trade to drive sales and secure bookings there and then!”
Be sure not to miss out - call now to reserve your exhibition space!
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