ABHTA Boss on Promotion Drive in Toronto

The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) recently completed a successful week of marketing and media activities in Toronto, Canada.

ABTA CEO Colin C. James joined Canada’s Director of Tourism (ag) Tameka Wharton and the ABTA Canadian team in promoting the destination to a diverse range of Canadian consumers over four intense days.

The focus was on strengthening partnerships, reaffirming Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to the Canadian market, and showcasing the destination’s offerings.

The ABTA’s marketing efforts in Canada have resulted in strong business growth in Antigua and Barbuda, as noted by key representatives from the travel industry whom James met with during the special events.

James also attended important meetings with tour operators like Air Canada Vacations, Sunwing, TravelBrands, and WestJet.

The ABTA announced a new strategic partnership with Ensemble, a major travel consortium with thousands of travel advisors throughout Canada and the US.

This partnership will provide Antigua and Barbuda with a new marketing channel that is a perfect fit for its high-end properties.

During his appearances, James consistently emphasized the robust calendar of events that make up Antigua and Barbuda’s ongoing ‘Year of Wellness.’

He also shared the latest statistics on visitor arrivals from Canada, which had already surpassed 2022 figures by 164% by the end of June 2023.

James was interviewed live on CP24, Canada’s premier English language specialty news channel, and other media interviews were held with various outlets.

The destination’s new “And” campaign, which highlights the unique selling point of Antigua and Barbuda’s distinct charms, was also widely promoted and well-received during the week’s activities.

James also took pride in sharing the remarkable accomplishment of the recent Virgin Galactic space launch, which saw an Antiguan and Barbudan mother-daughter duo become the first Caribbean people and Antigua and Barbuda nationals to visit space.

The ABTA Canadian team remains committed to continuing the momentum and growth experienced so far this year, with a strong result expected from their 3rd largest source market by year-end.