Speed networking event aimed at developing tourism experiences

Representatives from all four Causeway Coastal Route (CCR) clusters will assemble at the Ballygally Castle Hotel on April 9 to take part in the latest speed networking event.

Businesses have five minute, one to one exchanges, in which to introduce their respective tourism products.

In addition to enhancing their knowledge of other operators along the Causeway Coastal Route, it is hoped that through collaboration, businesses will identify opportunities to develop tourism experiences for the visitor.

Ciaran Doherty, Tourism Ireland’s Stakeholder Liaison Manager – Northern Ireland, is the keynote speaker for the evening.

Ciaran will bring a wealth of knowledge to the proceedings, setting in context for the trade the importance of collaboration in developing tourism experiences which Tourism Ireland can promote overseas.

Ciaran Doherty said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to meet with our tourism partners here on the Causeway Coast and share details of the work of Tourism Ireland and the opportunities to work together in our key overseas markets.

“Our aim is to help our industry partners do more business overseas and facilitate them to ‘close the sale’.

“Tourism Ireland has an extensive programme of promotions under way this year. We are taking every opportunity to leverage the exciting events happening over the coming months – including The 148th Open at Royal Portrush.

“And, later this month, we will unveil our new campaign around the eighth and final season of Game of Thrones.

“Our message overseas continues to be that a holiday in Northern Ireland offers the perfect combination of great events, spectacular scenery and our own unique brand of hospitality.”

Attendees can expect to learn about successful marketing campaigns to date and also about the upcoming campaign in September and it is hoped that Ciaran's inspiration will give momentum to increased campaign support from the trade in the early autumn.

If you would like to find out more about this event which takes place from 6.45pm on Tuesday, April 9 and to register for it, please email tourism@midandeastantrim.gov.uk by 5pm on Friday April 5, 2019.

The focus of the evening will be tourism trade within the following cluster areas Causeway and Binevenagh, The Glens of Antrim, Ballymena and The Gobbins.

ENDS

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