New business opportunities for Mayo were explored in London recently when a group of eight delegates from Westport, Louisburgh, Mulranny, and Castlebar, representing local tourism businesses and linked together by the Greenway, attended the World Travel Market in London recently as part of a fact-finding, marketing, training expedition.
The delegates, representing local tourist organisations, walking holiday organisers, holiday villages, and outdoor adventure-themed holidays were onsite at the travel market for a day and a half, and had the opportunity to interact with exhibitors from around the world, attend seminars, and receive one-to-one insight and advice on their product or service.
The World Travel Market event, which takes place annually, features exhibitors from a wide range of destinations and industry sectors, as well industry professionals and speakers. It provides a superb opportunity for businesses and individuals to network, negotiate, meet, and conduct business. This WTM delegation was supported by South West Mayo Development Company as part of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013, in order to further develop the potential of the businesses and organisations involved in local tourism.
Speaking about the visit, Sue O’Toole of South West Mayo Development Company, pointed to the importance of small businesses and individuals fully understanding the potential of their brand and business: “The WTM offers a wealth of information and opportunities for these businesses and individuals to understand what is currently being offered by colleagues / competitors at home and abroad, plus there are great seminars and training on offer too.”
