Ireland Woos German, Swiss, and Austrian Tour Operators in Frankfurt B2B Showcase

Ireland, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, is actively seeking to attract more German, Swiss, and Austrian tourists. To further this goal, a B2B showcase was recently held in Frankfurt, Germany, where Irish tourism providers had the opportunity to engage with tour operators from these three countries.

The showcase, organized by Tourism Ireland, aimed to highlight the diverse range of experiences and attractions that Ireland has to offer. Over 30 Irish tourism businesses, including hotels, attractions, and activity providers, participated in the event, presenting their offerings to the attending tour operators.

Germany, Switzerland, and Austria are significant markets for Irish tourism, with a combined total of over 800,000 visitors in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these numbers have significantly declined in recent times. The showcase in Frankfurt was therefore a crucial opportunity for Irish tourism providers to rebuild relationships with tour operators and reignite interest in Ireland as a travel destination.

At the event, tour operators were introduced to Ireland’s key tourism highlights, such as the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, the Causeway Coast, and Dublin’s vibrant city life. They were also informed about new and upcoming attractions, hotels, and experiences that will be available to visitors in the coming months and years.

One of the key messages conveyed during the showcase was Ireland’s commitment to sustainable tourism. The country’s tourism providers are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices and promoting responsible tourism. This resonates well with German, Swiss, and Austrian travelers, who are known for their strong interest in environmentally conscious travel.

In addition to the presentations and networking opportunities, the showcase also included a series of workshops and one-to-one meetings between Irish tourism businesses and tour operators. These interactions allowed for deeper discussions and the opportunity to establish partnerships and collaborations, ensuring that Ireland is well-represented in the itineraries of tour operators from these three countries.

Tourism Ireland hopes that the showcase will lead to increased bookings from German, Swiss, and Austrian tourists in the coming years. The organization has planned a range of marketing activities and promotions specifically targeting these markets, with a focus on showcasing Ireland’s unique experiences, its warm hospitality, and its commitment to sustainable tourism.

The B2B showcase in Frankfurt is just one of the many initiatives undertaken by Ireland to revive its tourism industry in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. With its breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and welcoming people, Ireland is determined to once again become a top travel destination for German, Swiss, and Austrian tourists.