New ACTA President Gets Warm Welcome at Packed Toronto Summit

More than 500 travel advisors, industry leaders and suppliers gathered at the Toronto Congress Centre yesterday for the annual ACTA Eastern Canada Summit. 

After seven years under the stewardship of Wendy Paradis, this year’s event marked the coming-out party for new ACTA president Suzanne Acton-Gervais.

If she was nervous you couldn’t tell, and Acton-Gervais’ introduction to the main stage was greeted by a warm round of applause.

While new in her role, Acton-Gervais has spent many years advocating for Canada’s airlines. She most recently served as Vice President, Stakeholder Relations and Regulatory Affairs at the National Airlines Council of Canada (NACC). 

Previously, she held roles at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the Airports Council International (ACI World), Transport Canada and Air Canada.  

Acton-Gervais said the planning, coordination and expertise performed by Canadians travel advisors “takes the stress out of travel” for their clients, making them an invaluable part of the travel eco-system. Providing a ‘snapshot’ of where the industry is and where it’s heading, she took a positive approach.

“Here’s the headline: Canadians want to travel. That’s very good news.”

ACTA is predicting moderate to strong growth for 2025-2026, with sun destinations continuing to lead the way, Europe a strong performer – especially during shoulder season – and Asia making a strong post-pandemic return.

“Canadians are exploring further and staying longer,” said Acton-Gervais, noting that overseas travel was up a solid 7-9% during May, June and July. “And Canadians need guidance to explore new destinations.”

While U.S. travel is down, the new ACTA president reminded advisors that it still remains a major destination. 

“But the number one destination for Canadians right now is Canada, Acton-Gervais said. “We’re rediscovering the beauty of our own country.”

Economic uncertainty and flagging consumer confidence are clouds on the horizon, Acton-Gervais said, but she remains optimistic that travel – especially in winter – will remain a budget priority for many Canadians.

She spoke about the importance of attracting new advisors to the industry and promised ACTA members that “we’re here to represent, support and champion you.”