‘Quality’ was the key word at this year’s INDABA conference, which saw fewer but more interactive buyers attend the annual show.
Africa’s top travel show, which finished up in Durban last week, hosted over 29,058 meetings over three days.
This was a 69 percent increase compared to the 17,191 last year.
Organisers, South Africa Tourism, attributed this steep increase to investments in technology such as the upgraded Online Diary, which could be used to set up appointments; and the Match Making system, designed to help pair buyers with the right sellers.
Regular attendee from African Sun Zimbabwe said while he realised a decline in numbers, he did appreciate the increased participation and interest in those he met.
“I have attended INDABA since 2007 and although we realised a decline in numbers there were many quality buyers from our source markets, Europe, German, Italy and Spain.”
Maxwell Moyo, African Sun Zimbabwe National Sales Manager
The highlight for Mauritius Tourism Authority was the increase in the number of meetings they set up at INDABA 2015.
Kyle Derrett, sales executive at Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris shared the same sentiment, saying he had meetings with ‘the right buyers’.
“We have brought the best of Africa together, and we have put our industry in direct contact with the exceptional, painstakingly selected buyers. Imagine the business that will come from 29,058 meetings.”
Thulani Nzima, South African Tourism CEO
“When South African Tourism commenced INDABA 2015 planning, it was determined to put exhibitors at the heart of the show.
“Without the exhibitors there would be no tradeshow, there would be no tourism industry and there would be no cause to invite tourism buyers to South Africa.
“INDABA is not just another place to do business, it is the embodiment of the African spirit, where Ubuntu connects delegates from all corners of the globe.”