Global Incentive Summit (GIS), the annual event for top incentive professionals gets underway in Killarney today and runs until Thursday.
NorthStar Meetings Group, in partnership with Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland, is hosting the summit, which will bring together 180 North American incentive travel planners and global incentive suppliers.
The event has the potential to generate €6.3m in revenue for the region for future years.
Global Incentive Summit will take place at The Europe Hotel & Resort in Killarney, where qualified incentive-travel planners will engage in one-on-one meetings and networking opportunities with representatives from global destinations, resorts, hotels, DMCs, CVBs and tourist boards.
In addition, participants will experience the legendary Irish hospitality in one of the country’s most beautiful incentive settings.
Among the local experiences planned are a lively reception at Killarney Brewing & Distilling, lunch at the Great Southern Hotel Killarney, dinner at Muckross Traditional Farms, a gala dinner hosted by the Europe Hotel and authentic local activities, including a jaunting car ride, foodie tour and visit to the National Folk Theatre of Ireland.
“We are delighted to welcome business event representatives to Ireland this week,” said Paul Mockler, Fáilte Ireland’s Head of Commercial Development.
“Kerry is the perfect location to host this event, and we are delighted that attendees will be able to experience first-hand what makes Ireland so special. Hosting events like the Global Incentive Summit gives us an opportunity to build and strengthen relationships with North American incentive planners to ensure Ireland is kept top of mind for incentive travel programmes in future years. We are confident this event will be a memorable experience for all. We extend our heartfelt thanks to The Europe Hotel & Resort, Wallace Travel Group and all our industry partners who have come together to make this happen.”
Two engaging speakers will be featured during GIS: On November 5, local hero and storyteller extraordinaire Pat Falvey, the first person in the world to have climbed the highest points on seven continents, will share his inspiring life lessons.
The following day, Claus Raasted, director of the College of Extraordinary Experiences, will reveal the transformational power of travel in his unique and entertaining style.