2010: issues, issues and more issues

A KEY talking point at the recent Grant Thornton tourism debate held in Johannesburg was the industry’s preparation in the run-up to the 2010 Soccer World Cup. While the panel, comprising top industry experts, was generally optimistic about what 2010 will mean for South Africa in terms of publicity and marketing, most cautioned against planning for a massive influx of tourists, when this was unlikely to happen. Figures from Grant Thornton predict that the total arrivals for the 32 days will be around 250 000, no more than in a normal tourism month. One of the concerns raised by Anton Thompson, ceo of Thompsons Tours, was that the games could scare away ‘normal’ tourists. Ernie Joubert, ceo of Peermont Global, said a multi-tiered approach needs to be followed in the run-up to 2010, one that will look at the issues of airline access, which is currently strained, and the possibility of an over-supply in terms of hotel rooms and other tourist infrastructure. The hospitality industry was also cautioned not to over-price during the event as this would have negative long-term effects on SA’s image of affordability. Tanya Abrahamse, executive director of the Tourism Business Council, said that for the games to be successful, the country needs a real plan for public transport, one that looks beyond the possibilities of the Gautrain. (Darren Sandras)