Responding to the article focused on the upcoming Our Africa.Travel trade show, owner of Centre Stage Travel, Colin Fryer, commented:

“There appear to be a number of both virtual and in-person cross-spectrum (multi-discipline) trade shows lined up for 2022/3. This week on Tourism Update, two such shows were presented in one day. And this week, in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Africa’s Eden was a phenomenal and successful show for both exhibitors and buyers.

So, how are prospective exhibitors to decide which show is 'best’ for them? Virtual or in-person? Traditional or newbie? How on this blessed earth can, say, an average South African safari operation in the Eastern Cape of limited financial and human resources, get the right show/s specifically for their brand of offering?

Specialised trade shows tend to charge higher rental rates, shotgun shows (broad based, hope to hit the nail but, in reality, do not) have lower input costs.

The question is, where to place the meagre show spend?

I would look to the drivers of the actual trade show, absorb their focus, ability and, importantly, their pedigree as sustained providers of quality solutions.

I would certainly be attracted by energetic, passionate and visionary souls (show organisers) who appreciate the reality that not a single exhibitor is gifted with a limitless budget and, as such, needs to feel that their 'plight' in this regard is heard and reflected in the costs.

Key selling points are, flexibility of show package, a flow of core buyers and a proactive, supportive ear from the organisers.

I am no expert in this regard but having evaluated the broad offering of OurAfrica.Travel virtual opportunity, I have to reflect that here is a team of hugely able, driven and focused souls 'playing' a game they just love!