Meitheal, the largest and most important trade event for the Irish tourism industry, gets under way today at the Gleneagle Arena in Killarney, Co. Kerry.
Meitheal is Fáilte Ireland’s annual flagship trade event, organised in partnership with Tourism Ireland, which provides Irish tourism businesses with the opportunity to sell directly to top international buyers and tour operators.
Significant business deals are expected to be signed over the next two days, with over 11,000 sales meetings scheduled to take place between 402 Irish tourism providers, 267 international buyers, and tour operators from 17 countries.
The countries represented are Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, Great Britain and the USA.
‘Commercial Opportunity’
“Meitheal is where Ireland’s tourism industry comes together to do real business,” said Caroline Bocquel, CEO of Fáilte Ireland.
“Its power lies in the direct access it gives Irish tourism providers to high-value international tour operators – buyers who collectively shape the travel decisions of hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
“This is where global demand is translated into commercial opportunity.
“By working closely with industry partners to give these buyers a true sense of what sets Ireland apart, we help secure future business that supports jobs, strengthens communities, and drives regional economies.”
Showcase
The best of what is on offer across Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Ireland’s Ancient East, the Wild Atlantic Way and Dublin will be showcased, with the aim of being scheduled on the future itineraries of global tour operators.
This year, almost 40 new tourism experiences are showcasing their products at the event for the first time, including cultural attractions, heritage sites, craft and design studios, outdoor and water-based activities, hands-on culinary experiences, and unique guided tours.
The menus at Meitheal have been specially curated to highlight the exceptional quality and diversity of Irish food produce and suppliers across each of Fáilte Ireland’s regional tourism brands.
International Buyers
Prior to Meitheal, international buyers travelled throughout Ireland on bespoke itineraries designed by Fáilte Ireland to experience first-hand the depth and quality of Ireland’s tourism offering.
These tailored trips featured experiences across Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East and Dublin, highlighting the distinctive and memorable holiday experiences that await visitors therein.