Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council held its annual 2023 Tourism Conference today (Wednesday 11th October) at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, bringing together local businesses and industry leaders to highlight local strengths, collaborate and discuss the latest trends and innovations for the sector.
The conference programme featured a diverse line up of speakers including Dr Joanne Stuart OBE, Chief Executive, Northern Ireland Tourism Alliance, Ruth Andrews, Chief Executive Incoming Tour Operators Association, Claire MacEvilly, Chief Executive Airfield Estate, Dublin and local tour experience provider Donna Fox, Director of Donna Fox Tours. Following this, we invited a panel of experts to share their perspectives, challenge one another and discuss the key themes that are important to tourism providers in the borough.
Opening the 2023 Tourism Conference, Lord Mayor of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Alderman Margaret Tinsley said,
“I am delighted to welcome local businesses to the conference to learn about the latest developments and innovations from industry leaders, and also to hear from our passionate speakers who have lived experience, through creating and growing their own thriving business through tourism.
“Our local tourism industry and hospitality businesses are huge players in driving forward the growth for this sector, we hope today inspires everyone to continue to work together, be ambassadors for our borough and encourage tourism to thrive.”
With a focus on the power of collaboration, the conference provided an opportunity for local tourism and hospitality providers to meet face to face, share information and learn from industry experts.
Innovation was the key theme for this year’s conference, highlighting the importance of keeping up to speed with changing trends and technologies. Discussions explored new opportunities in the sector, as well as ways in which tourism can continue to evolve and adapt in the face of challenges.
ABC Council is committed to drive tourism for the borough by providing memorable and unique visitor experiences, showcasing its culture and stories, celebrating local food and orchard produce and delivering world class signature events to a domestic, national and international audience.
The Tourism Conference 2023 was compered by former broadcaster and journalist Karen Patterson.
The Council provides ongoing support to local tourism and hospitality providers through the Tourism, Arts and Culture Department. For more information and advice contact:
