Tourism Northern Ireland supports Co Derry engagement event

Organised by Mid Ulster District Council, the `Meet the Experts’ gathering was aimed at tourism and hospitality businesses across the council district.

The more than 30 industry who attended the event heard from a range of key speakers who provided insight into current tourism global trends and offered advice and guidance on business growth, driving success and how to attract visitors to the region.

Attendees also explored partnership programmes, advertising and marketing opportunities and publicity and media opportunities, in both the business-to-business and business-to-consumer spaces.

The information day also included a networking and peer learning opportunities.

Businesses also learned about Tourism Northern Ireland’s E-learning platform, explored Discover NI, the Go Succeed programme and TXGB (Tourism Exchange GB), an online booking platform.

Speakers at the event included a number of Tourism Northern Ireland representatives including David Roberts, Director of Strategic Development, Naomi Waite, Director of Marketing and Carolyn Boyd, Industry Development Manager.

Eimear Callaghan, Head of Experience and Industry Development, at Tourism Northern Ireland, also took part in a panel discussion which explored issues including the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), VAT and the importance of being a value for money destination.

Other organisations involved in the event included Tourism Ireland, Innovate NI and ProfileTree - Web Design and Digital Marketing.

Councillor Wesley Brown, Deputy Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, said: "This event was an excellent opportunity to bridge the gap between expertise and the community, fostering learning and growth.

"Events like this are crucial for unlocking the potential within our community and cultivating forward-thinking ideas that drive success.”

David Roberts, Director of Strategic Development at Tourism Northern Ireland, said: “The Tourism Northern Ireland team was delighted to take part in the `Meet the Experts’ event.

"Tourism is identified as a key pillar in the economic strategy for the area so it is crucial that we take opportunities like this to provide an overview of the work Tourism NI is currently undertaking and how we are working to build a high-performing sector.

"During this event, the team were able to explore issues including our new online learning platform, our work around people recruitment and retention, and our marketing campaigns.

"Equipping the tourism sector to be more innovative, sustainable, and inclusive is key to the future success of the sector and the team at Tourism NI team are on hand to guide, advise and support where we can.”

Further details about Mid Ulster District Council's Economic Development, Tourism & Strategic Projects is available at www.midulstercouncil.org