The world’s most important event for golf tourism is being held on the Costa Daurada in Tarragona with optimism shared by IGTM and IAGTO representatives about the future of the golf tourism sector.
In his keynote address, Peter Walton, the CEO of IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators), presented positive findings from the 2013 World Golf Tourism Report, highlighting an overall growth in golf tour operator sales of 9.3% in 2012 over 2011.
“Our report shows steady and healthy growth in the sector and I believe all indications are that we will have a third consecutive year of golf tourism growth in 2014. It’s an optimistic forecast that I’m sure will be reflected in next year’s global golf tourism survey,” he commented.
“Golf resorts, courses and hotels, should continue to focus on their strengths, but also, and perhaps more importantly, work together with public bodies to promote their golf offering in the best possible way to attract more tourists and specialist golf operators.”
“On the other hand, golf tour operators move in a very competitive market, so they must focus their energies on differentiation, exclusive communication channels and cost-effective promotions, while keeping their costs low and expanding their knowledge of the industry.”
Peter ended his speech by stressing the importance of IAGTO members knowing how to leverage their company’s strengths so that this overall growth is also personally relevant and sustainable in the long term.
Peter Grimster, IGTM Exhibitions Director, shared Peter Walton’s optimism, assuring that “IGTM is becoming an increasingly important barometer of the performance of the golf tourism industry and the verdict this year is that the market has grown at a steady pace.”
He added: “With the support of world-class destinations from all corners of the golfing globe, IGTM continues to be an important golf tourism event for both exhibitors and attendees, bringing the entire global golf tourism industry together in one place, creating a unique opportunity to generate new business and develop existing relationships.”
The 16th edition of the IGTM is being held for the first time on the Costa Daurada, one hour south of Barcelona and 15 minutes from Barcelona Reus airport, and this year 1,200 delegates from 60 countries are expected to attend the four-day event.
Photo: Peter Walton, IAGTO Delegate Council at IGTM 2013 exhibition in Costa Daurada, Catalonia, Spain
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