The 2017 Tourism Industry day has been hailed a great success by both industry delegates and the Department of Economic Development’s Tourism team.
Those attending the fully subscribed event heard about the latest visitor statistics, marketing activities, tourism trends, progress on the delivery of the Destination Management Plan as well as the announcement on the Temporary Work Permit Exemptions for the Island’s Hospitality Sector. Additionally, there were opportunities to attend specialist training sessions on topics ranging from digital marketing, social media for tourism and creating travel offers, through to Disability Discrimination Act responsibilities.
Rob Callister MHK, Department Member with responsibility for Tourism and Motorsport, said:
‘This industry day was by far the most comprehensive we have run so far. Based on industry feedback we grew the scope of the event to incorporate more opportunities for professional development and networking for our delegates. While we regularly engage with the industry throughout the year via forums such as the Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce Visitor Economy Committee, the Industry Day holds a special place in the calendar for us and I’m exceptionally pleased we had so many attendees.’
Robin Bischert, Director for the Visitor Economy, Department of Economic Development said:
‘We have already received some very positive feedback about this year’s event and it was a pleasure to see such a broad range of industry stakeholders in attendance. Over the past year we have made good progress towards achieving the objectives laid out in the Destination Management Plan to grow the overall Visitor Economy with a broad range of initiatives including the ‘Come To Your Senses’ marketing campaign, PR campaigns generating over £2.3m of coverage, hosting well-known travel personalities Ray Mears and Ben Fogle and a brand new Visit Isle of Man website.
‘We were also able to update the industry on new initiatives in support of increasing visitors such as the creation of new Mountain Bike and Walking Routes suitable for the Family Market, our “Families Welcome” Scheme and specific travel packages for the short break market.’
Nikki Sperring, Owner of Albany House B&B in Peel attended the event. She said:
‘The Tourism Industry day was very motivational and just what I needed at the start of my busy season. It was great to engage with the Tourism team and there was a genuine offer there to help and provide support, which is a marvellous boost when you’re self-employed running your own B&B. The presentations and workshops were very professional so I would like to say well done to the Tourism team and I hope there is another event at the same time next year.’
Videos of the presentations and workshops along with images of the day will be available online shortly on the Visit Isle of Man website.
