This pilot project was implemented within the framework of the Pacific Regional Tourism Capacity Building Programme (PRTCBP), which is funded by the European Union under the 10th EDF and implemented by the South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO). The project forms part of the broader Programme Activity 7: Capacity Building in E-marketing for SPTO and NTOs and envisages provision of technical assistance and training for SME Tour / Activity Operators in Pacific-ACP Countries. It aims to support participating SME Tour/Activity Operators by providing them with the tools and training to make optimum use of the Internet for online sales and for processing online bookings.
The activities that were implemented under the project include running training workshops on digital marketing in each country, assessing the market readiness of SMEs, collecting digital content (photos and written content), building websites or providing booking buttons for participating SMEs and providing booking and channel management tools.
In this pilot project, a total of 103 industry participants representing 64 SME Tour/Activity Operations attended 4 workshops run in 3 destinations (Tonga – Nukualofa, Fiji – Nadi and Savusavu, and Kiribati – Tarawa) between April 10th and August 8th, 2015. Of those operators attending the workshops, 42 wished to proceed with site visits and having systems built by WHL.
At the submission of the consultants Final Activity Report, 20 properties had web sites built and are “Live” and the balance are under development, while more Live sites continue to be launched each month.
Very informative and useful. Len was very captivating with the presentation and helped me make effective marketing strategies and what to be aware of when starting a new business. It was a productive workshop. Based on what I’ve learned after attending the SPTO workshop, I have a better perception of the importance of online marketing; knowing the likes/ dislikes of travellers and what travellers are interested in. Also, I’ve learned to look at the business from a travellers’ perspective and what draws them in. Naima Cocker from Simon’s Place in Tonga.
The e-Marketing support for Tourism SMEs – tour & Activity operators workshop was Excellent. As for me it was really good not just for me but for everyone who attended the workshop. They found it easier to do the marketing online and it is really worth it. So its all explains well and gives us the idea on how to do more things easier the right way in just a click online.(website), so a BIG THANK YOU to SPTO for providing such a good and helpful way to the tour and activity operators. Hope there will be more in the future. Mr. George Teanako (Manager – Mary’s Motel) on the e-Marketing Support Project for Tourism SMEs – Tour & Activity Operators
Its good to know that WHL has an agent in Tonga who will help build the on-net sighting of the business. Very convenient for those interested. Interesting perspective of the experts view of what the internet sees in our business, especially with the growing industry of Tourism here in Tonga. Looking forward to the assistance. Lahaina Tatafu from Deep Blue Diving
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