Gauteng Tourism Authority launches its marketing plan

The Gauteng Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with KPMG will launch the Strategic Marketing Plan for Gauteng 2001-2006 on Thursday (March 28) at the GTA offices in Rosebank. The plan has been developed as a way of providing direction for tourism marketing and development in the province and creating a platform upon which informed decisions can be made and strong partnerships forged. The plan is built upon key tourism principles that focus on the following: * Alignment of initiatives and strategies at all levels; * Linking product to market; * Avoiding dilution and maximising limited resources, and issues of * Safety and security. The plan also provides a basis upon which identified objectives will be achieved. Six objectives have been identified including: target markets and strategic planning; product development and packaging; branding and image; visitor services and information provision; promotion and pr and partnerships and resources. "The GTA aims to be a true marketing organisation, being lead by market understanding, tailoring of marketing activities and visitor needs. The Authority's success will be achieved through working in partnership with the industry and key role players," says Terry Tselane, the GTA's ceo. "The GTA will demonstrate its seriousness of marketing Gauteng as a tourist destination. This plan should be viewed as a framework for delivery and all interested parties should contribute to its success in every possible way," concludes Tselane. (Miguel de Sousa)