The inaugural Global Travel Marketplace West (GTM West) by TravelAge West and Travel Weekly was a reminder that even successful travel agents can extend their supplier network and reinforce existing relationships. During the course of the event, a West Coast spin-off of last year’s successful GTM, 76 travel agents who represented more than $160 million in travel sales met with 77 suppliers during small-group boardrooms and one-one-one, seven-minute appointments.
“I really feel that GTM West is a first-class event,” said Janette Webber, co-owner of Avanti Travel in Redding, Calif. “I have a few new contacts and met up with some suppliers that we have not used in a while. Also, the staffers are amazing — they showed tons of energy and support for us.”
To attend the fully hosted event, West Coast travel agents completed a rigorous application process that included a long-form interview, supplier referrals and proof of selling at least $800,000 in travel. This year’s GTM will take place from July 9-11, and next year’s GTM West will take place from May 1-3.
