Future-Focused TMP Montreal Launches with Sold-Out First Edition

On May 11, Quebec’s travel industry gathered at the Hôtel Bonaventure Montréal for the sold-out inaugural edition of Travel Market Place (TMP) Montréal.

Organized by Travel Market Report Canada and TMR Québec, the French-language event welcomed more than 250 travel advisors and approximately 50 suppliers in an atmosphere that was dynamic, professional, and focused on the future of the industry.

From the early hours of the morning, it was clear that the Quebec market had responded enthusiastically to a TMP program designed specifically for its realities. Presented entirely in French, the Montréal edition marked an important milestone for Travel Market Report Canada, which already hosts popular annual conferences in Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary.

A program built around industry realities

The day was filled with sessions and panel discussions addressing issues directly impacting Quebec travel advisors, including technological evolution, shifting traveller behaviour and client expectations, the growth of luxury travel, geopolitical influences, and the expanding role of professional associations.

One of the sessions was “Navigating Change: Quebec Travel Trends, Global Shifts & the Advisor Advantage.” Moderated by Pascale-Lou Angelillo, editor for TMR Québec, alongside Joane Tétrault of ATOQ, the discussion explored the evolving challenges faced by travel advisors in today’s changing industry.

Technology and the accelerated pace of change within the sector also generated significant discussion throughout the day. Daniel Langevin, COO and SVP at Softvoyage; Sébastien Lauzière, director of development at Wingbuddy; Julie Sareault, commercial director at Transat; and Amandine Gicque-Leduc, relationship manager at IATA, each shared insights into emerging innovations and the evolution of digital tools within the travel sector, a reality that continues to push professionals to adapt quickly.

An expert leadership panel

Another highlight of the event was the panel discussion “Crossing the Finish Line: Quebec consortium leaders on advisor trends, challenges and growth,” which provided strategic insight for attending travel professionals.

Moderated by Catherine Maisonneuve, editorial director at Travel Market Report Québec, the panel brought together Marylène Lupien, director of business development at TRAVELSAVERS, Karine Gagnon, general manager of Transat Distribution Canada, Sylvain Lastère, owner of Groupe Atrium, Lyne Côté, director of member relations at Ensemble and Anick Dupuis, co-president of Voyages en Direct.

The panellists discussed the evolving role of travel advisors, shifting traveller expectations, the importance of human expertise, and growth opportunities within an industry undergoing rapid transformation.

The conversations both practical and forward-looking highlighted the importance of creating dedicated discussion spaces tailored to the Quebec market. In front of an engaged audience, the panel reflected the broader mission of Travel Market Place Montréal: bringing the industry together, encouraging knowledge-sharing, and equipping advisors with tools and perspectives to better navigate today’s travel landscape.

A busy and engaging Trade Show

Beyond the conference sessions, the exhibitor marketplace served as one of the event’s major attractions. Throughout the day, travel advisors connected directly with representatives from destinations, airlines, cruise companies, hotel groups, and tour operators.

The atmosphere on the trade show floor highlighted the strong interest suppliers continue to show in the Quebec market. Several exhibitors emphasized the quality of the conversations and the strategic. importance of meeting with French-speaking advisors in an environment specifically designed for them.

Suppliers including Transat, Air Canada, Jamaica Tourist Board, Explora Journeys, along with several technology partners and international destinations, were among the companies represented in Montréal.

Workshops and industry-focused sessions

Other elements of the packed one-day event included workshops and presentations that allowed travel advisors to dive deeper into key industry topics including luxury travel trends, artificial intelligence and business development.

A strong debut for TMP Montréal

The inaugural Montréal edition of Travel Market Place successfully brought together all the ingredients of a strong industry event: relevant content, quality networking, engaged suppliers, and a high level of advisor participation.

Big thanks go to the inaugural sponsors for the event, who saw the value of an educational event for French-speaking travel advisors. They include: World of Hyatt Inclusive Collection, Transat, Jamaica, Wingbuddy, Air Canada, Air Canada Vacations, Porter Airlines, Explora Journeys, Softvoyage and Expedia Cruises.

“When we created a dedicated team for Travel Market Report to Canada, Quebec was a crucial part of the equation,” said John Kirk, Editor-in-Chief and Executive Director of TMR Canada.

“The success of this inaugural edition confirms the strong potential of the Quebec market for specialized tourism industry events. The feedback we’ve received is that Travel Market Place Montréal is the new must-attend event for Quebec’s tourism industry.”

Check out the full agenda from the May 11 event here.