The organization of SMART was feared to be difficult this time around with both Governments (St. Maarten/ St. Martin) having to slash their tourism budgets. Furthermore, as the Global financial crisis continues to affect the local economy, most companies were cutting back on expenses, many of which opted to slash their marketing budget. In contrary, marketing became the most important tool for companies eager to attract business in times such as these. It also became clear that people weren't refraining from taking vacations but were looking for cheaper options. Accordingly, hotels and Tour operators began creating better deals and searching for new network possibilities to supply the demand for travel specials. This is why events such as SMART are so important. SMART provides the perfect setting for these hotel and tour operators as well as excursion operators to discuss business in preparation for upcoming season.
This mixture of Buyers and Suppliers delegates will have the opportunity to sit down one-on-one to discuss future business possibilities during SMART 2011. The event takes place on May 25-27, 2011 at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa. It all kicks off with a Welcome reception on May 25, 2011 hosted by the Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa. This will also be the first opportunity for SMART delegates to mingle and socialize before a full day of appointments on May 26, 2011. The SMART farewell party will be held later that evening at Mercure St. Martin Hotel & Marina. The SMART selling floor will be open on May 27, 2011 for those whom have made additional appointments and workshops have also been organized on this day for interested properties.
The SHTA would like to thank all SMART Sponsors in advance to the event. This unique marketing event could not be made possible without the help of the island's business community. Sponsors to date include: Windward Island Bank; Bank of Nova Scotia; PDG Supplies; HCP Abroad; SMITCO; Office World; Hair & Body Works; NAPA Auto, Truck & Marine Parts; Goddard Catering Group; Boolchand's; Ace Home Center; BSL Laundry; Shipwreck Shops; First Caribbean Bank; Price Waterhouse Coopers; Antek; Safe Cargo Services; GEBE; International Liquors & Tobacco Trading; Xerox.
The organizers of SMART: St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, Office de Tourisme de St. Martin, St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association and L'Association des Hoteliers de St. Martin are pleased to bring you the only tradeshow catered to the Islands of the North Eastern Caribbean Region.
