New program reestablishes critical industry ties

(TRAVPR.COM) USA - October 27th, 2020 - A study by Leisure Group Travel (LGT) found that just 28% of groups ran any trips after March 15. With 68% of cancelled trips yet to be rescheduled, Leisure Group Travel is helping group travel planners reestablish contacts with destinations and travel industry suppliers, who are also facing unprecedented budgeting and staffing issues.

The absence of in-person get-togethers such as meetings and fam trips has left a void in the travel industry, which relies on relationships to build trust. But Virtual Site InSpections, an innovative program from the publisher, provides a crucial connection point for the industry to reengage and conduct business.

How It Works
Starting December 4, Leisure Group Travel will begin offering virtual connections between buyers and sellers, leveraging two decades of its industry-leading platform. Consisting of three components packaged together, Virtual Site InSpections provide a platform through which buyers and sellers can connect.

1.     Digital Site InSpections help travel industry suppliers tell their story through the expert voice of LGT’s seasoned editorial team. Published online LeisureGroupTravel.com and across social channels, they provide a landscape of what to do and what to see in an area.

2.     Friday Fams are virtual familiarization tours, led by the LGT team and the sponsoring organization in a condensed 30-minute Zoom-like format. Each session includes a virtual visit with the in-destination team, updates on what’s available for groups and a live Q & A session.

3.     Print Site InSpections offer a unique perspective to their digital counterpart, providing suppliers valuable real estate within the publication’s regional editorial, cementing their coverage where planners turn to for travel recommendations.

“With so many groups needing to reboot their efforts, we’re excited about sharing these great stories with our community,” said Jeff Gayduk, publisher of Leisure Group Travel. “These new Virtual Site InSpections start the conversation and provide a critical communication strategy to an industry that needs to get back on its feet.”

Fully two-thirds (67%) of readers expect to be running regular group departures by the third quarter of 2021, with domestic destinations expected to come back  before international travel. Leisure Group Travel’s aim is to help groups pinpoint who’s ready for group business so groups can get back on the road again quickly.

About Leisure Group Travel
Launched in 1994, Leisure Group Travel is the leading publishing company serving the pre-formed group marketplace. Through print, digital and virtual events, LGT helps groups plan the perfect vacation while connecting them directly with suppliers eager to host groups. Learn more about Leisure Group Travel’s Virtual Site InSpection platform by calling 630.794.0696, or email advertising@ptmgroups.com.

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