There is a need for the European market to create more demand, become more visible, and to upscale consumer promotions.
This is the strategy that the Seychelles Tourism Board’s Director for Europe, Bernadette Willemin, said at the end of her presentation at the end-of-year marketing meeting held at Savoy Resort and Spa this week.
Mrs. Willemin’s presentation gave details on the state of business for the European market, challenges, and the strategies which will be used in the coming year.
She said the aim for 2015 is to have 70% of the European market to Seychelles and for visitors from this market to choose these islands as the prime destination in the Indian Ocean.
Mrs. Willemin added that there are new market segments in Europe that Seychelles can tap into, and it is a plus that the islands still have a strong image and media presence on the European market. These positive traits should be maintained, added Mrs. Willemin.
One of the strategies to be used to market Seychelles as the ideal destination will be an educational and awareness program, and targeting customers in niche markets and stimulating interests in their choice of selecting Seychelles as their holiday destination.
Outlining the main objectives, Mrs. Willemin said increasing customer awareness on the brand and visibility remain top priorities, along with dispelling myths and negative perceptions on the destination.
She added that there is a need to stop the decline in markets such as Italy and France, while increasing visitor numbers from the other markets in Europe.
