Tipp Plots the Future

The Elevate Tipperary Tourism Conference which opened on Wednesday has brought almost 200 tourism industry representatives out in force to put their best foot forward for Tipperary ahead of this coming tourism season. 

Delegates included hoteliers, restaurant owners, activity providers – water sports, equestrian, hiking, Chamber of Commerce, public authorities, tour operators, educational establishments, caravan and camping park owners, tour guides, visitor attractions, bars, Tipperary Food Producers and many more.

Caroline Rice, Tourism Development and Marketing Officer for Tipperary, commented how "the future success of Tipperary Tourism depends largely on the collaboration of stakeholders across the industry, from public authorities, community groups, tourism businesses, no matter what their scale, working with other stakeholders with an interest in this sector, as well as educators, development agencies, Tipperary County Council, Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland. The key is collaboration in order to cut through internationally and nationally".

The day was structured around sustaining, regenerating and elevating at every level – firstly at the individual level of the business, secondly at the collective level within the county and thirdly, at the county level – looking at the "Time for Tipperary" brand and how it competes nationally and internationally.

Paul Keeley, Director of Regional Development, Fáilte Ireland, emphasised the need for alternative, less saturated destinations, making Tipperary an ideal choice for those seeking authentic, family-friendly experiences in a safe and scenic environment. He highlighted the importance of meaningful collaboration that builds the appeal of a destination, where energy meets energy.

Adding to the already completed Suir Blueway, the Lough Derg Blueway and Greenways, a large focus of Tipperary’s current tourism strategy is placed on regenerative and slow tourism projects and building a network of sustainable tourism across the industry in the county.