International Golf Travel Market 2012 (IGTM), the premier global event for golf tourism will generate a record amount of business in Algarve, Portugal with more buyers and exhibitors attending than ever before.
The event, which takes place from 12th – 15th November, will see buyers and exhibitors conduct business from more than 50 countries through pre-scheduled appointments and networking opportunities. With more than 250 buyers registered from 38 countries, a 19% increase on 2011, the ratio of buyers to sellers for IGTM 2012 will enable more pre-scheduled appointments to take place generating record business opportunities.
IGTM, which is now 75% sold out, will welcome a strong representation of exhibitors from Ireland, Tunisia and Brazil together with other destinations across Europe, Asia and Americas. Among the first-time exhibitors are Pebble Beach Resorts, USA, the iconic Californian golf destination and five-time venue of the US Open Championship.
IGTM Exhibition Manager, Peter Grimster, said: “This year’s IGTM looks set to break all records. We are on course for the largest ever attendance, and the ratio of buyers to sellers is set ideally for destinations to optimise business with golf tour operators during the four days.
“More than 250 buyers are already confirmed, including leading international tour operators Golfbreaks.com, Thomas Cook, Golf Plasir and Kuoni Golfreisen.”
Peter Grimster continued: “The unique format of IGTM, with its pre-scheduled appointments, puts a strong focus on doing business, and we continue to look to innovate and enhance business and networking opportunities during the event. I have no doubt that the business opportunities combined with the quality, accessibility and popularity of our host destination, the Algarve, Portugal, will make this the best IGTM yet.”
The Algarve Tourism Board, which previously hosted IGTM in 1999, is also anticipating great interest in the event and the region, which has been an established golf travel destination for more than 30 years.
António Ventura Pina, President of the Algarve Tourism Board, said: “The Algarve is one of the top golf destinations in Europe and one of the best in the world, with many of our 32 golf courses recognised and awarded for their excellence. Approximately half of all Portugal’s golf courses are in the Algarve, with 15% of tourism revenues in the region derived from golf, so it is an important sector of our economy.
“Naturally, the expectation for IGTM is high with the golf tourism market demanding a new business approach for product and sales strategy, resulting in enhanced performance. For this reason, it is of great significance for the Algarve to host IGTM and create the ideal conditions for a successful business event.”
This is the 15th edition of IGTM and each year the event brings together more than 600 golf tourism suppliers, 350 pre-qualified buyers and 100 international media for four days of pre-scheduled appointments, networking opportunities and industry updates.
IGTM www.igtm.co.uk
IAGTO www.iagto.com