Travel MarketPlace East Opens Registration

On the heels of a successful Travel MarketPlace West conference in Vancouver, Travel MarketPlace East will be offered for the fifth consecutive year on May 22-23, 2018 at the Westin Harbour Castle Toronto. Registration is now open for the educational event, which is co-sponsored by Travel Market Report and the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies (ACTA).

Scott Koepf, vice president of strategic development for Cruise Planners, will serve as emcee for the forum focused on Canadian travel agents and suppliers. The speaker line-up will also include Ron Cates, one of the world’s leading digital marketing gurus, who will demonstrate how attendees can grow their business through social media.

Additional breakout topics will include how independent contractors can manage their business; a panel discussion on working effectively with your BDM; tips on implementing service fees; how to find your niche; a session on where boomers are traveling to next; and how to find the right mentor.

Travel MarketPlace also includes a tradeshow exhibition, meals and a cocktail reception.

Travel MarketPlace is designed exclusively for Canadian travel agents and suppliers, presenting an opportunity for travel agents to connect with fellow travel professionals, participate in educational seminars and network with suppliers, all with the goal of growing their business. Last year’s conference attracted over 450 attendees.

“Travel MarketPlace features dynamic industry speakers who are experts in their field, sharing their knowledge on topics that include social media, marketing, technology and more. So many agents have told us how valuable this event is to them, which is why we keep coming back,” said Anne Marie Moebes, publisher of Travel Market Report.

Attendee Elaine Pepper, from YYZ Travel, said: “Travel MarketPlace exceeded my expectations. [Last year] was year four and it keeps getting better. I heard so many agents say ‘This was worth my time away from the office.’ Agents need to know this conference is an investment in their education. Networking with agents and reps from many areas of tourism helps us become better equipped to help our clients.”

Suppliers agree the event is well worth their time. “Travel MarketPlace is a must for Canadian suppliers looking for a balance of new contacts and existing clients all under one roof,” said Robert Ruttan, a business development manager at Club Med.

In addition to ACTA and TMR, sponsors of this year’s Travel MarketPlace West include: Marriott International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, and Big Bark Graphics.

Registration for Travel MarketPlace East is now open – click here. ACTA agents can attend for just $89 without a hotel stay and $249 for registration and a one-night stay at the Westin Harbour Castle. Non-ACTA agents are also welcome for a fee of $119 and $299, with or without a hotel stay respectively. Hotel stays are for single occupancy and include taxes, fees and all conference meal functions.