Tourism operators across Swansea Bay believe that a united front will reap rewards next year as they battle to overcome the UK’s ongoing tough economic climate.
Swansea Council has received a hugely positive response from businesses wishing to become partners in the area’s high-profile 2010 tourism marketing drive.
The number of businesses on board for the Council’s innovative Marketing Partner Package has increased this year with an enormously encouraging 26 new marketing partners.
It brings the total number of partners to 130. They are based across the area in Swansea, Mumbles, Gower, Neath and Port Talbot. They range from small guest houses and activity providers to the larger hotels and attractions.
Many well-established businesses remain in the partnership which benefits their business as a result of the year-long programme of Swansea Bay tourism marketing.
The programme will see tourism businesses promoted in key markets across the UK in a 56-page Swansea Bay Holiday Guide, on the official destination website www.visitswanseabay.com and through direct mail and email campaigns. They will also be included in the South West Wales Overseas Guide.
One key aim of the promotional push is to increase visitor numbers during spring and autumn, helping tourism businesses to extend their seasons.
Cllr Graham Thomas, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Tourism, said: “We appreciate that these are tough times for our tourism businesses and that they have to make difficult decisions on how to spend their marketing budget.
“By freezing the price of participation at 2009 prices and by increasing the discount for Tourism Swansea Bay members, we have made sure our Marketing Partner Package is both value for money and affordable. There are several levels of buy-in available.
“We ensure that the Swansea Bay Holiday Guide and other marketing material is delivering what our customers want by completing an annual consumer research programme.
“This ensures that the content and design of our publications is keeping ahead of the competition and anticipating the demand of our customers.
“The response to our direct mail and online marketing activity consistently outperforms the Wales average, which demonstrates that tourism operators in Swansea Bay are benefiting from this partnership by reaching more potential visitors each year.”
Tony McGetrick, Chairman of Tourism Swansea Bay, said: “We have worked closely with the tourism team at Swansea Council this year and are delighted that so many of our members recognise the importance of working together.
“The Marketing Partner Package is probably the most cost-effective, comprehensive and attractive package available to tourism operators. Many recognise the benefits it brings to their business.”
