Show, Grow & Learn!

As 2018 comes to a close and we gear up for another year of showcases, we look back on our events, the suppliers who supported the agents and the overall experience of putting these types of shows together. This past year was full of new challenges and exciting experiences and we feel that we have... View Article

This past year was full of new challenges and exciting experiences and we feel that we have truly stepped out and created a unique identity for our showcases. Yes, there are a number of travel industry events that may be bigger and snazzier, many that are only for select organizations or exclusive to only the biggest of travel sellers, or specific to agents that work for certain hosts or agencies. That is fine, but this is where we differentiate ourselves from the competition; our showcases are open to all active and producing travel agents. Sure we might not be for everyone and there certainly are many out there that have made it clear that our events do not meet their needs. We have no problem with this because many more agents still come to us and thank us for what we provide and the opportunity to attend and learn.

Unfortunately, the agents that register for events such as ours and never show up is one of the biggest problems currently in the travel tradeshow industry. The suppliers and vendors echo the same concern and is honestly one of the biggest reasons why there are not as many of these types of events taking place nowadays. It is understandable that emergencies happen and a show might take a back seat to real life, but in most cases, there is just too little ownership and responsibility when it comes to last minute no-shows.

We unfortunately see this all too often and as our shows grow with supplier participation and greater investment in our events; we must cut down on our waste and challenge the professional travel agent to be responsible to their commitment. In 2018, Travursity, LLC will be implementing a series of tiered registration fees for our showcases. Not to make an extra buck or to get rich off the attendees (honestly these fees do not make us rich); but to stabilize our attendance for our suppliers that do invest in your business development.

By adding a nominal fee, (just like many suppliers are now doing for their own events and ship inspections) we have seen a greater number of registrants attend our events, less no-shows and a higher appreciation by the participating suppliers. These fees will be determined by the event and the value added amenities our events have included and come to be known for. Another reason for these fees is to be fair to all agents that want to attend. Too often we run out of space only to have it open because of unprofessional agents that register multiple times and not show up on the day of the event. Honestly, the fee is an investment in your business (including a business write off) and tells the industry you are serious about attending to learn new product and brands instead of wanting a free meal and hopefully winning a prize.

Travursity Travel Showcase understands that this might make us unpopular in some agent groups, but overall it adds to the strength and success of these shows for the future. Whereas a small investment in your business adds to your success, your attendance addresses the commitment to the industry suppliers and vendors and fuels their desire to support well attended tradeshows as a result of your investment.

We look forward to another amazing year filled with exciting showcases in new venues and experiences with supportive suppliers bringing their products and brands to every showcase. But most importantly, we look forward to you, the active and producing travel agent, experienced or new to the industry, committed to building your business or seeking new and innovative opportunities; at each and every event.

Thank you for your support and we will see you in 2018!!

Vince Yeck & Monique FitzPatrick

Owners – Travursity, LLC