Nicole Perez, Director of Sales at Princess Hotels and Resorts, underscored the significance of the recent Granite Travel Trade Expos in Canada for the travel industry. “Granite Travel Trade Expos remain a cornerstone of our Canadian Travel Trade sales strategy. These events present invaluable opportunities to connect with travel agents nationwide, particularly in promising secondary markets crucial to our growth,” she stated.
The response from agents at these events has been overwhelmingly positive. Sonya Thomas, a travel concierge at Journeys by Elizabeth, expressed gratitude for the access these Expos provide. “We’re incredibly thankful that suppliers make the effort to meet with travel agents in our communities,” she noted, emphasizing how these gatherings facilitate connections for agents in smaller areas. Thomas attended the Kingston Expo on November 5, further highlighting the importance of local interactions with suppliers.
Each Expo featured a host of engaging elements, including supplier presentations, interactive consultations, and a dynamic trade show, all culminating in a dinner and prize giveaways hosted by Sal Buccellato. To ensure a productive atmosphere, supplier participation was limited.
Looking ahead, Granite is gearing up for the 2026 series, which kicks off on April 13 in London, Ontario. Each event will cap supplier attendance at 36, ensuring an intimate and efficient environment. Discounts of up to 20% for multiple shows and sponsorship opportunities will be available.
The Spring 2026 lineup includes cities such as Kitchener, Barrie, and Oshawa, with an Atlantic Canada series commencing in St. John’s on May 25 and progressing to Halifax and Moncton. The fall series will then travel westwards to Winnipeg and Red Deer before returning to Ontario for shows in Ottawa, Kingston, Markham, and Hamilton.
Suppliers participating in the 2025 season spanned a diverse range, including destinations, hotel chains, airlines, cruise lines, tour operators, and tourism boards from both national and international markets, showcasing a robust representation of the travel sector.
Interested parties seeking more information on participating in the 2026 Expos can visit GraniteTravelExpos.com or reach out to Bradley Dean at brad@graniteproductions.ca for registration details.
By fostering connections between agents and suppliers, Granite Travel Trade Expos play a pivotal role in supporting the growth and development of the travel industry across Canada.
