Reporting from London's WTM 2008...
THE current economic downturn is expected to extend well into 2009, according to the WTM Global Trends Report released yesterday at World Travel Market in London.
According to the report, the airline industry has been the hardest hit by the crisis, with such trends as consolidation and seat cutting implemented by airlines to weather the storm.
Hotel occupancy rates have also declined with some international chains warning that all developments will be delayed or cancelled.
Euromonitor researchers told WTM delegates yesterday that the travel trade would have to embrace consumers if they were to survive. 'Operators should let concientious consumption rather than conspicuous consumption drive the travel and tourism industry.'
Said Carol Bremner, chief researcher: 'Philanthropic travel has become a key trend in the North American market over the past year, with some US$229bn contributed to that niche market.'
In South Africa, says Carol, the progressive Fair Trade in Tourism organisation, which accredits responsible organisations that promote and respect the local community, provide a further stamp of approval for products seeking to tap into the ethical tourism market.
Carol said there is a chance that an international fair trade trademark would be implemented in response to this demand.
Fairtrade branded products enjoyed 47% growth in 2007, according to the Fair Trade Labelling Organisation International.
'Fair trade branded holidays to Africa could be a powerful tool to promote tourism to Africa among ethical and eco-friendly travellers worldwide, who would be attracted by the region's numerous eco-tourism attractions as well as the possiblity to discover its culture,' said Bremner.
