Practice Groups
Travel &Tourism
Travel and tourism represents one of the world’s largest industries. According to industry experts, travelers in 2006 will account for $6.5 trillion in economic activity. Looking ahead, when direct and indirect contributions are considered, the industry is expected to grow at over 4% annually, producing almost 9% of the world’s jobs and over 10% of global gross domestic product. In many countries tourism represents the first, second or third largest industry. For all of us working – in any capacity – in this tremendously important, and rapidly changing, industry, there are outstanding opportunities for business development and sometimes daunting challenges.
Economic globalization and technology – in transportation and communications – have transformed the world’s attitudes and expectations about travel and tourism. Once reserved for the wealthy, global travel is, increasingly, within the reach of almost everyone. The Internet and other IT technologies have enabled every individual to research, plan and buy travel at any time of day or night. Consumers are literally overwhelmed with information and offers from every corner of the earth. Multinational companies operate across the globe even as acquisition and consolidation create fewer and fewer, larger companies to compete with.
In this environment, it is essential to find creative ways to become more competitive, to master the increasingly complex and finely tuned channels of communication, to understand the nuances, differences and particularities of highly defined audiences and to establish a vibrant and unique brand. One size no longer fits all. It is essential to have the capacity to think globally and act locally, to communicate with target audiences with full knowledge of their unique cultures, traditions, needs and expectations. It is essential to create many messages for many distinct and differing markets.
The more than two dozen agencies of the Worldcom Travel and Tourism (T&T) Practice Group offer just this expertise. Situated around the world and staffed by trained, knowledgeable professionals, they offer in-depth understanding and valuable media relationships on the local, regional or national levels while often working together to create multi-faceted global communications campaigns as well. Services range from destination marketing and economic development to representation of companies large and small in hospitality, lodging, transportation, cruises, ground operations and travel and tourism products. Whether the need is a full-scale ongoing marketing communications program, web marketing, a gala opening, special event, news conferences, product launch or help with development of written materials, speeches, or audio-visual presentations, each member of the group ensures that clients receive total understanding of target audiences, extensive experience, and the highest skill levels in the practice of public relations and marketing communications.
The WORLDCOM Travel and Tourism Practice Group clients include government agencies and national tourism organizations, convention and visitors bureaus, cultural organizations and visitor attractions, multinational hospitality companies and individual properties, casinos and gaming companies, cruise lines, airlines, tour operators, sporting events, theme parks and industry marketing associations.
Chair : Virginia Sheridian, M Silver Associates
Phone : 212.754.6500
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