Finding your niche in a sea of opportunities
Anyone that has attended World Travel Market (WTM) during its previous 34 editions will know that it is impossible to see everyone. In a way it flags up just how confusing and overwhelming the travel market and decision can be for holidaymakers – with all these destinations and experiences to choose from where do you start?
Our lead story today indicates that niche markets will become more prevalent for the travel industry moving forward. It’s no secret that being a specialist in an area will put you further ahead than others in a particular field, whether it’s a certain sport or an age group. WTM appears to be responding to this trend with a host of new initiatives and sessions at this year’s event.
Take bloggers for example. The bloggers programme is well-established at WTM and will continue this year with the addition of a Blogger Speed Networking session on the Thursday morning. The Travel Technology Show also returns for its second year, as will A Taste of ILTM at WTM, sectioning off the technology and luxury arenas.
This year the focus has turned to the wellness industry and women in travel. A wellness tourism programme will take place from Tuesday to Thursday aiming to provide more information on the multi-million sector that is growing rapidly. The Women in Travel sessions cover two different topics such as successful entrepreneurs and how companies can help enhance women around the world.
There is no doubt that WTM is a must-do in the travel calendar, even if you only brave a day. But it’s important to consider what it is you are offering your customers and how to make use of your time and contacts made at the show.
Travel Daily’s tips for a successful WTM
- Wear comfortable shoes, you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Try to plan your appointments in the same area or at least the same end of the hall, to save running around for four days.
- Be brave and try the local delicacies being handed out. If you get around enough stands it might mean you won’t need to queue for an overpriced sandwich.
- Have a bottle of water on you, but make sure you get it from Just a Drop. The charity will have a giant tap stand where you can make a donation for a reusable water bottle and free refills throughout the show.
- If you’re there all four days, save the heavy drinking until the Wednesday night. Just trust us.
- Catch some of the speaker sessions, there are some great people and topics lined up.
- Finally, from our friends at BRIGHT, take a good attitude and smile!
DID YOU KNOW?
Someone will snap up the ‘holy grail’ of internet domain names at WTM, holiday.com. The URL has been with its current owners for around 16 years and they have only now felt at ease to part with it, in the meantime generating interest that it has a £5 million reserve. The auction will take place at 17.30 on the Wednesday of the show, handled by Breathe Luxury Limited.
Need to know
Opening hours: Mon 10am-6pm; Tues 10am-6pm; Weds 10am-8pm; Thurs 10am-4pm
Address: Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, London, E16 1XL
Closest Tube: Custom House or Prince Regent on DLR
Hashtag: #WTM14
Website: www.wtmlondon.com
News: Read your daily Travel Daily UK as usual, or follow tweets on Twitter @TDUKnews
PIC: excel
Comments are closed.