Atout France – France Tourism Development Agency organised its flagship event, its annual B2B showcase “Experience France” in Mahabalipuram in September. Hosted at the Sheraton Grand, the third edition of this offsite saw a record turnout of 36 French tourism establishments; the largest delegation since the inception of the tourism board in India. The B2B showcase was graced by the presence of Mme Catherine Suard, Consul General of France in Pondicherry.
Over a period of three days, the delegation interacted with 85 representatives of the Indian travel fraternity from key markets. The delegation comprised of a versatile mix of transport companies, hoteliers, regional tourism board, local tourist offices and a strong presence of delegates from the French Alps fortifying the tourism boards efforts to position France as a winter destination. In addition, France’s overseas territories were also represented in the form of Reunion Island. A selection of soirées allowed for interactive exchanges between agents and suppliers. The workshop also unveiled Atout France’s new communication branding, “Explore France” which will be consciously integrated in all marketing and communication initiatives henceforth.
Sheetal Munshaw, Director, Atout France said, “We are extremely pleased with the response our workshop has received, on both fronts, buyers and sellers. This formidable presence of our partners reinforces the belief that India is an important source market for France. We are grateful to the support extended by the travel trade fraternity for all our endeavours. We are confident that the exchanges at the workshop will pave the way for greater synergies between our two countries.”
