TORONTO — High-energy and fun in-person events have always been a big part of the travel industry, and thankfully now they’re back – including a brand-new series of travel expos coming to Ontario this spring.

Granite Travel Trade Expos are taking place in key cities: Kitchener-Waterloo (April 17), Hamilton (April 18), Mississauga (April 19) and Barrie (April 20).

The events will bring together travel industry suppliers and top-producing travel agents, says Bradley Dean, Oakville Toronto Partner, Granite Productions.

Dean notes that the travel shows are coming to lower-serviced – but high-producing – regions in Ontario.

“Agents in these cities often have to go to Toronto to attend industry events. That means extra costs, parking and time away from the office,” says Dean. “Agents who live in these areas are happy to have industry events so close and convenient, and they’ll be coming out for the shows in high numbers.”

Registration has already opened: https://granitetravelexpos.com/agent-registration/

Tripcentral travel advisor Jairus Maus says: “With the transition from pre-Covid bricks-and-mortar travel agencies to majority home-based workplaces, it is more important than ever that suppliers have recognized the importance of engaging smaller key markets in Ontario.  These opportunities to exchange ideas directly and keep up with fast moving changes will definitely contribute to overall interest and sales.”

$20 SHELL GAS CARDS

Registration for travel agents is free and a $20 Shell gas card is available to qualified agents who attend (some conditions apply).

For suppliers, an early exhibitor booking discount offer applies until Feb. 26: two shows, 10% off; three shows, 15% off; and four shows, 20% off.

Each of the four events includes a trade show, light dinner and refreshments and closing presentations and prize giveaways.

Granite Productions conceptualizes, creates, and delivers in-person and online expos in North America and has worked with brands including St. Kitts Tourism Authority, Jalisco Tourism, Bahia Principe Hotels and Resorts, CAA, iBelieve Foundation and more.

Dean says the new series of regional travel trade events are designed to connect industry suppliers and top-producing travel agents, facilitating valuable and essential in-person interactive consultations and presentations.

“There is no substitute for in-person relationships and engagement,” he notes. “After nearly three years of virtual meetings, it’s time for the travel industry to re-acquaint and re-engage with the destinations and resorts that agents endorse and recommend to clients.”

As the tourism industry rebounds after the pandemic, agents are eager to learn destination and product updates, booking incentives and re-engage relationships, he adds.

Suppliers and other vendors looking for booking information for the shows, or agents looking for more event details, can check out www.granitetravelexpos.com or contact Bradley Dean, Oakville / Toronto offices, at (416) 565-5212.

Granite Travel Trade Expos