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Predictions for 2010 from ITT

There was surprisingly little drama about economic gloom at this year's ITT conference. Instead, in measured and thoughtful debates, Kuoni's Peter Rothwell and other panellists predicted next year would be slightly better than this year. Tim Williamson of TUI thought trading conditions might be tougher next year but said there was a real sense of optimism in the business about how quickly Mexico is recovering in popularity after the swine flu issues of earlier this year.  Mike Greenacre of the Co-Operative Travel Group said he expected further consolidation as small to medium sized businesses go out of business this autumn as they run out of cash. We heard Terry Fisher of Gold Medal encourage industry partners to "respect the supply chain" and work closely with agents and operators to drive volumes. Jumairah Beach supported Terry's comments saying in December they were looking at 50 per cent occupancy for the first quarter of 2009, but after working closely with trade partners to reach last minute decision-makers had finished Q1 with occupancy levels of 91, 93 and 96 per cent.

Views from ITB 2009

ITB was best described as "resilient" this year. Exhibitors told a common tale - it's tough, but everyone has now taken their head out of the sand and we're addressing the challenges head-on. 

A wish for a sustainable new year

2009 dawns with the economy the biggest concern facing every business. We know media are going to want credit crunch stories and, as many are facing serious budget cuts and challenges themselves it's going to be top of many people's minds personally as well as professionally.

Perfect storm facing 2009 travel marketing

Caribbean Tourism Organisation European Encounter Event at World Travel Market, moderated and introduced by Debbie Hindle, bgb managing director

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