PHILIPSBURG – Minister of Tourism Mellissa Arrindell-Doncher on Wednesday, May 10 said government is enthusiastic about the upcoming SMART trade show. She said the event, which will be held next month, is extremely important for securing new business for local hoteliers and others and, by extension, the destination.
The L’Association des Hoteliers de St. Martin, Saint Martin Tourism Office in conjunction with the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA) are expecting numerous Tour Operators, Travel Agents, Travel Writers, and Event Planners from the US, Canada, Europe, and Latin America to return to the island for this important event.
The trade show provides a unique opportunity for local and regional hoteliers and activities providers to present their tourism product, network and negotiate prospective business opportunities. During the trade show, travel partners and wholesalers as well as hotel and excursion operations come together for one-on-one discussions on potential business ventures.
The event provides almost 2 days of pre-scheduled appointment sessions and activities where Buyers can meet and conduct business with Suppliers in the tourism industry.
“It is important that our hospitality properties and other businesses are present and have a good showing in order to generate new business that not only benefits their respective businesses but St. Maarten in general. It’s a great opportunity to also learn about some new initiatives on the market and how we can be positioned to take advantage,” the Minister said.
In previous years, SMART featured suppliers from Anguilla, Antigua, Barbados, Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barthelemy, St. Kitts & Nevis and St. Maarten-St. Martin.
SMART 2017 kicks off on Wednesday, June 14.
