Figures say golf tourism has grown 21.4% in two years

IAGTO chief has optimistic outlook for tourism sector

The golf tourism market grew 21.4% over a two year period (2012-2013), according to the latest figures released at the International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) at Lake Como.

In his keynote opening address, Peter Walton, chief executive of the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) announced the figures and shared an optimistic outlook for the golf tourism industry.

GROWTH

Walton said he also expected to see growth in 2014. But he warned that golf destinations needed to implement properly funded strategies to secure sustainable tourism growth and not rely on tourist boards to generate increased business.

“The responsibility for instigating a golf tourism strategy lies firmly at the door of the relevant tourist board. However, at a time when public sector bodies are overstretched and often cash-poor, a golf tourism strategy should not be seen as either onerous or costly, but rather, crucial,” said Walton.

In order to assist its member golf destinations and to illustrate how all the elements of such a roadmap fit together, IAGTO also announced the publication of its Integrated Golf Tourism Strategy Blueprint, created from its unparalleled experience of developing golf tourism strategies for more than 30 countries and regions across the globe.

Peter Grimster, IGTM Exhibition Manager, said: “IGTM continues to be the platform from which the global golf tourism industry builds relationships, creates new business opportunities and discusses the key issues that affect growth.

POSITIVE

“There is much for the golf travel industry to be positive about and the news that global tour operator sales continue to rise is hugely encouraging, and presents many opportunities.

“I would also encourage everyone in the golf travel industry to study IAGTO’s Integrated Golf Tourism Strategy Blueprint, and digest the 10 steps it suggests golf destinations take to trigger future growth.”

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