Ireland's plan to reverse tourism decline

Central Statistics Office (CSO) inbound tourism data for January 2025 show a 25.0% year-on-year decline in international visitor numbers, and a 27.9% decline in spend - a drop of €83M from January 2024.

Over-dependence on the North American market, and weakness in traditional European markets France and Germany, are seen as problematic issues.

The Irish government has announced several commitments that are intended to prop up the country's tourism industry:

• A "Year of the Invitation" building on the success of "The Gathering" initiative of 12 years ago
• Reducing VAT rate to 9% for restaurants, entertainment and hairdressing - businesses popular with tourists
• Institution of a new National Tourism Policy intended to ensure the long-term viability of Ireland tourism
• Infrastructure enhancements to transport, greenways, cycle routes and the Wild Atlantic Way

The Irish Tourism Industry Confederation (ITIC) has called for further government action, including:

• Removing the Dublin Airport passenger cap
• Invest in regional airports
• Reduce taxes on tourism employers
• Preserve tourist accommodations in rural and coastal regions

For more, watch the video of ITIC CEO Eoghan O'Mara Walsh interviewing Tourism Ireland CEO Alice Mansergh.

Maine Governor's Conference Early Bird Pricing Ends Friday

Conference will be held 16-17 April 2025 at the Cross Insurance Center in Bangor.

Go here for attendee registration and exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities.

Individual tickets are $95 through Friday, $125 after that.

Keynote speaker Joe Diaz of Afar Magazine will talk on "The Future of Tourism: Leaning into High-Value Visitation".

Agenda:

Wednesday 16 April

• Maine Scenic Byways Summit
• Explore Bangor Welcome Excursions
• Educational Workshops 1
  • Frances Perkins Center Heritage Tourism PLan
  • Working with Influencers and Travel Media
• Educational Workshops 2
  • Marketing to Outdoor Enthusiasts
  • ChatGPT for Curious Beginners
  • Data Informed Marketing
• Refreshments
• Keynote by Joe Diaz
• Maine Tourism Awards
• Welcome reception

Thursday 17 April

• Breakfast and expo
• Panel: Cultural Heritage Tourism Trends and Opportunities
• Coffee break and expo
• Breakout sessions 1
  • Wabanaki Cultural Tourism Strategic Plan
  • How AMC Leverages Land Conservation
  • Employee Training and Retention
  • Generating Your Own Media
  • ChatGBT for Marketing
• Breakout Sessions 2
  • Cultivating Real Maine Tourism
  • Downtowns: Opportunities for Collaboration
  • Developing Collaborative Outdoor Experiences
  • Tracking the ROI of Your Advertising
  • Attracting International Travelers
• Lunch + Panel: Transforming MAine Through Sports Tourism
• MOT Report
• Q&A with MOT
• Closing

New England destinations getting Canadian cancellations

Some tourism suppliers and DMOs in the New England states are reporting Canadian customers canceling visits because of President Donald Trump's rhetoric re tariffs on and possible annexation of their country.

On 1 February Mr. Trump had announced a plan to impose a 25% tariff on imports from Canada. Although on 3 February he put the tariff proposal on hold, Mr. Trump then on 10 February said he still plans to go forward with a plan to annex Canada as a 51st US state.

Canada has threatened to impose retaliatory tariffs on the US. Quebec Premier Francois Legault also has threatened to remove American liquor products from stores in his province.

Boston-based Consul General of Canada Bernadette Jordan said, "When you have someone saying they want to make Canada the 51st state, it does not resonate well in Canada."

I'd say this situation calls for a fast-reaction response from New England destination marketers, particularly those in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.

Will that happen, and happen soon enough? Stay tuned.

Victoria Cimino named President and CEO of Discover Newport

Official Newport, RI region DMO Discover Newport has announced the appointment of Victoria Cimino (pictured, above) as its new President and CEO, effective 17 March 2025.

Current CEO Evan Smith is retiring after 19 years.

Previously, Ms. Cimino served as President and CEO of Visit Williamsburg; Director of the NH Division of Travel and Tourism Development; and Director of International Marketing of the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. She is currently a Director of Destinations International.

Discover Newport promotes tourism to 9 townships in Newport and Bristol Counties, RI.

Portland ME 2025 Destination Summit registration now open

The Visit Portland Annual Meeting - now rebranded as Destination Summit - will be held 0830-1430 on Wednesday, 30 April 2025, in Hannaford Hall at the Abromson Community Education Center at USM in Portland.

From Visit Portland:

"Join 250+ industry professionals for a day packed with insights, connections, and inspiration. This is more than just a conference—it’s a chance to network with leaders, uncover the latest trends, and gain valuable strategies to elevate your impact in our tourism industry. From a marketing deep dive and regional statistics to expert speakers and interactive networking, this event is designed to inform, engage, and spark fresh ideas."

Summit will feature:

• Marketing update
• Regional visitation statistics
• Awards
• Exhibits
• Networking
• Marketing workshop

Registration priced at $75 for members, $90 for others, is here.