More than 800 attendees convened at Resorts World Las Vegas for the American Marketing Group’s (AMG) Travel Market 2022 conference last week (Oct. 27-30). Under the theme “Stronger, Bolder, Brighter,” affiliates from the US and Canada, preferred suppliers and AMG staff took advantage of all opportunities for learning, networking, brainstorming, planning, and celebrating, the latter including the pandemic-delayed 50th anniversary for AMG.
Established more than 52 years ago, the American Marketing Group, Inc. (AMG), is the parent company of 19 travel brands, including TRAVELSAVERS, NEST, and The Affluent Traveler Collection.
“There is so much to celebrate with our 50th anniversary but it goes beyond that,” said Nicole Mazza, Chief Marketing Officer. “Together with our advisors and partners, we’ve accomplished so much over the years. Our philosophy is firmly anchored by our family culture – the foundation comprised of the shared values, competencies, and the spirit of our team. What Rick Mazza started 50 years ago serving the travel agency community has continued to grow thanks to innovation, creativity, service, technology, and our people, which has contributed to our success and will pilot us for the next 50 years.”
Education, Inspiration, Networking and Celebrating
The conference started with a full day of interactive workshops for the advisors to learn more about how to enhance their businesses through AMG products and services to ensure that they are fully engaged in all the tools available. Over 100 preferred supplier companies educated advisors during the trade show event, including many individual hotel partners.
The supplier learning continued with hands-on emersion sessions where advisors got to sample unique experiences, always a favourite session at AMG events. Journalist and media personality Jesse Brown opened the keynote with his view on a better way to work and David Manning motivated attendees “to get out of our heads.”
Panels included top executives from trade associations as well as preferred partners who shared their insights and prognosis for the future. The event ended at the Gala Awards dinner recognizing both advisors and partners.
Future is Bright – Growth of Network and Future Trends
Despite world events and economic uncertainty, travel sentiment is strong pointing to a brighter future. AMG affiliates of TRAVELSAVERS US and Canada, and NEST have brought in new agencies representing US$480 million in preferred supplier sales to date this year with many others in for consideration. New preferred partners were announced adding to an already robust portfolio.
Projections are robust for all travel types with year-over-year growth for insurance at 63%, hotel revenue at 40% and room nights at 24%, cruise sales at 29%, land at 24%, cruise group sales at 15% and suite sales are also on the rise. Land travel has seen the largest increase with Europe and domestic destinations trending the highest with 50%+ growth.
AMG The staff has also grown with several key appointments. In Canada, Jane Clementino joins as TRAVELSAVERS Canada Senior Vice President and General Manager, Marylene Lupien as Director Business Development plus Monique Lalonde, Director Strategic Partnership in Canada.
“The vibe at Travel Market was one of great optimism as we celebrated the resiliency of this great industry. Together with our preferred partners, advisors and team, we toasted to our great accomplishments together over the past 52 years and are excited for the bright future ahead,” declared Kathryn Mazza-Burney, Chief Sales Officer.