Fifty Caribbean attractions operators are converging in Ocho Rios, Jamaica this week to discuss their industry’s current challenges and opportunities.
Organized by tour company Island Routes, the Certified Partner Conference will be the first for the Jamaica-based company, which operates land and sea excursions in a dozen Caribbean destinations.
“Whether it’s moving from one excursion to two, or expanding into a new destination, we know that there are challenges and we are committed to working with our partners to overcome these, “ said Adam Stewart, Island Routes’ CEO, who is also the CEO of Sandals.
“In a billion-dollar industry, we are also aware that numerous opportunities exist. The conference will provide a platform for this growing community to pose questions to experts and to each other, as a way to enhance their own operations,” Stewart said. “We’re extremely proud to be hosting what I believe is a groundbreaking and very positive step forward for this sector.”
The conference is being held at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort through Sept. 16, and will include speakers Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism; Tara Lano, Director of Product Planning and Promotions, Leisure, Flight Centre, USA; and Carlton Alexander, Chair in Management Studies; and Director of the Centre for Tourism and Policy, Professor Ian Boxill.
— Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon, CJ Travel Editor