A South African delegation of 20 exhibitors – which include five small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) sponsored by South African Tourism – is heading for WTM at ExCeL London next week (November 7-9) with one united message: “We are ready to welcome visitors and are open for business.”
So said SA Tourism COO, Nomasonto Ndlovu, speaking to Tourism Update ahead of the delegation’s departure. “We’ll be there to remind delegates that our mountain is still there, the hotels and quirky boutique properties still offer the same standard of service, the sun is still shining on our golden beaches, the guides’ smiles are brighter than ever and our wildlife still holds the greatest attraction.”
She said this message was part of restoring confidence in SA as a destination again, aligned with WTM London’s overall theme as well.
“One of the biggest changes since WTM London 2019 is that the tourism industry now fully understands its importance in the value chain. And government also finally recognises that too.”
Absence makes the heart grow fonder
Ndlovu noted that this was one of the greatest positives that came out of the pandemic. “We appreciate that we are no longer fighting for a space in South Africa’s economy. The world has recognised what the tourism industry brings to the table and we are going to capitalise on that.”
And, she said: “They’ve missed us. Absence definitely makes the heart grow fonder and we are ready to remind the UK and European trade why South Africa should be their first choice as a travel destination.
“It’s been too long since we have been able to showcase the diversity of South Africa’s arts, culture, cuisine, fashion and, of course, its abundant wildlife and scenic beauty. And this time around we’re going to ensure the 70% UK buyers and 21% European buyers experience, taste, hear and see all we have to offer.”
Ndlovu said the activations at the South African stand would include a fashion show, a food and wine tasting, some music by well-known SA artists and more.
Fewer exhibitors
She agreed that there were fewer exhibitors on the South African stand this year, which she largely chalks up to ongoing financial constraints for a sector hard hit by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“But this is why we intend to up the stakes, dramatise our presence and ensure our voices are still heard and our tourism industry is still showcased for all it can offer.”
Ndlovu also expressed excitement at the opportunity to show the world all the new products that opened during the height of the COVID lockdowns – including Kruger Shalati – Bridge on the Train and the luxury boutique Sanctuary Mandela hotel.
Value for money
“South Africa offers value-for-money, unique experiences, beautiful scenery and coastlines and is a leader in responsible and sustainable tourism. Over the last year or so we have seen new and innovative products from our various South African product owners in a bid to gear up to receive travellers from across the globe,” said SA Tourism Acting CEO, Themba Mzilikazi Khumalo.
He noted that global trade platforms such as WTM London gathered the best of global buyers and exhibitors to network, connect and transact. “This provides an important platform for innovation.”
In addition to this, Khumalo reaffirmed that, through various in-market campaigns and trade relations, the SA Tourism teams were working hard in all source markets to entice international tourists back to SA’s shores to increase both the direct spend and arrivals numbers and ultimately contribute to inclusive economic growth.
Meeting new market demands
With consumer behaviour and booking patterns now changing, the upcoming 43rd edition of World Travel Market London will be showcasing how the industry has evolved and reshaped itself over the last two years to meet the demands of the new consumer market.
WTM London continues to draw tens of thousands of senior industry professionals, government ministers and international press to ExCeL – London to network and grow.
This year there will be exhibitors from 100 countries with over 6 500 meetings already scheduled.
