Northstar Travel Group convened its nine-member Global Travel Marketplace (GTM) Advisory Board in New York last week to strategize the continued growth of its GTM and GTM West travel adviser events.
GTM and GTM West, produced by Travel Weekly and TravelAge West, connect top-producing advisers in North America with a diverse group of cruise, hotel, tour and destination suppliers through one-on-one appointments, boardroom presentations and networking events over the course of two-and-a-half days.
The second annual board meeting was held at the Loews Regency New York. Board members are finishing their term this year and are chosen to represent a variety of consortia, host agencies, independent contractors and geographic locations.
"Each of our board members is a true industry success story and helps our team garner fresh perspectives on what today's travel professionals need to continue to grow their business," said Alicia Evanko-Lewis, senior vice president of events for Northstar.
Board members include: Donna Alkarmi, owner of Lone Star Travel, a member of TL Network; Rob Clabbers, owner of Q Cruise + Travel, a Virtuoso agency; Lisa Fletcher, an independent contractor with Signature Escapes, a Gifted Travel Network agency; Deb Fogarty, owner of Be Well Travel, a Nexion agency; Ginny Mariano, owner of Avanti World Travel, a Virtuoso agency; Geoff Millar, owner of Ultimate All-Inclusive Travel, a member of TL Network; Rebecca Norrbom, a frontline agent with Holiday Cruises & Tours, a Signature Travel agency; Connie Risse, owner of Ships & Trips Travel, an Ensemble agency; and Melissa Varela, owner of Modern Romance Travel, an Ensemble agency.
"The dynamic nature of our industry and the complexity of the products we sell requires constant learning and constant networking," said Clabbers. "I know my business has benefitted from GTM and being a part of the GTM Advisory Board has helped me gain further recognition in the industry as a premier travel advisor. I find so much value in helping to shape the future of these events and ensure that our industry and our profession is the primary beneficiary."
Board member Fletcher agreed: "My business has grown greatly from attending GTM. As an Advisory Board Member. I recommend and encourage others to attend the impactful events so they, too, can reap the benefits. And over time, our entire industry benefits because GTM provides a platform for ensuring advisers are fully equipped to meet clients' needs."
The GTM Advisory Board members have spent the first year of their term working to help elevate the GTM brand, recruit travel adviser peers and improve the event experience.
"Our board members understand the ever-changing nature of the travel industry, recognize the value in furthering their product knowledge, creating valuable relationships, growing their networks, and are dedicated to helping other advisors do the same," Evanko-Lewis said. "Our GTM events create a platform for just that, ensuring they're fully equipped to meet clients' needs."
GTM West will take place at the Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa in Henderson/Las Vegas May 18 to 20, followed by its sister event, GTM, held at the Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood/Fort Lauderdale, Fla., July 9 to 11. Accepted participants complete a rigorous screening process, evaluating their business model, confirming annual sales and providing industry references prior to being accepted into the event.
"Now in year five, the GTM events are established as premier travel adviser events," Evanko-Lewis said. "With approximately 600 thoroughly vetted travel adviser participants in our alumni ranks, our reach has grown exponentially. We are constantly striving to keep our events best in class and provide our advisers and suppliers with the most rewarding experience both financially and professionally.
To apply and become a part of the GTM experience, visit www.globaltravelmarketplace.com.