This year’s theme, ‘Transform,’ highlighted the trending topics of the travel industry with a huge turnout at CT Partners’ Annual Business Meeting held in Ho Chi Minh last month.
Over 100 delegates attended the CT Partners’ Annual Business Meeting in Ho Chi Minh City in late October.
The Australian corporate and leisure travel-buying network event was held at a new location this year – at the Park Hyatt Saigon – with a revised meeting format and a record number of attendees, including 33 preferred supplier partners and ATIA CEO Dean Long.
CT Partners CEO Matt Masson said the team was excited to be able to host the meeting in Ho Chi Ming, a vibrant and inspiring destination.
“A huge thank you to all our supplier partners for their support, and a special mention to Singapore Airlines, our major sponsor. We continue to cement our reputation as a trusted and respected partner of choice for our members and those valued industry partners we choose to work with,” he said.
This year’s theme, ‘Transform’, highlighted the trending topics of distribution changes, AI adoption, generational booking patterns, and talent outsourcing, which were covered in panel discussions, member sessions, and partner presentations.
A new speed dating format was introduced on the second day to allow one-on-one member and supplier meetings, allowing for an improved level of dialogue and engagement between businesses and resulting in a palpable buzz in the Park Hyatt Saigon ballroom.
During the event, members gave tribute to the significant individuals who have contributed to the growth and success of the company, including the late Bev Cohen, a founding member of CT Partners who also worked for Wentworth Travel.
Rosanna Piaggio, National Agency Sales Manager at Singapore Airlines, won the Ian Edwards Award for best supplier partner, as chosen by popular vote.
Jimmy Pham, founder of KOTO, shared the story of his social enterprise in Hanoi that provides disadvantaged young adults with hospitality and life skills training to rebuild their lives. KOTO has worked with more than 1700 trainees in Vietnam over the past 24 years.
CT Partners announced they will sponsor a KOTO trainee for a 2-year training program.
The group of delegates took part in off-site experiences, including a Saigon Immersion challenge to explore District 1, a speedboat ride up the Saigon river to an evening event at The Deck, and a final Gala Dinner at the historic Reunification Palace – decorated with vintage Saigon memorabilia from the 1960s.
CT Partners hit a membership high this year with its 31st additional member to the travel-buying network.
To find out more, visit: ctpartners.com.au
