LONDON: The tourism industries in Greece, Egypt and Turkey could be getting back on track according to the WTM Industry Report 2016 released at World Travel Market London.
Of the total survey sample 37% looking to talk to Greek businesses, 29% were looking to talk to Turkish suppliers and 17% were heading toward the Egypt stands.
Revival on cards?
Those looking to talk to Greek businesses: 37%
Those looking to talk to Turkish businesses: 29%
Those looking to talk to Egyptian businesses: 17%
The three destinations’ tourism industries have been hit hard by a combination of political uncertainty and t errorist attacks over the past few years. Many travel companies had withdrawn from or severely limit their presence here.
It also appeared that many buyers were already decided to sign on the dotted line, with eight out of ten expecting to confirm deals. Eight out of ten buyers having talks with Turkish, Greek and Egyptian exhibitors plan on signing contracts (80%, 80% and 78% respectively).
More than 2,000 buyers and exhibitors were polled for the report, with half the global sample saying they are planning to have conversations with suppliers from Egypt, Greece or Turkey.
WTM London sees an annual gathering of 50,000 senior travel industry professionals. this year it took place at ExCeL – London from Monday 7 to Wednesday 9 November 2016. Buyers from the WTM Buyers’ Club have a combined purchasing responsibility of $22.6 billion (£15.8bn) and sign deals at the event worth $3.6 billion (£2.5bn). The
Tunisia is another destination whose tourism industry has been hit. Its recovery may take longer. There are early signs of a shift in sentiment though. While only 8% of the sample were looking to talk to representatives, more than 70% were expecting to sign a deal.
World Travel Market, Senior Director, Simon Press said: “After a difficult couple of years, the signs are that Egypt, Greece and Turkey are back on the agenda, while Tunisia is starting to turn the corner.”
Musafir Namah Bureau
