09.05AM: MARKET INSIGHTS AND FORECAST
The event opened with an exclusive presentation from Chris Hewett, associate director at TRI Consulting, who shared market insights and forecast data for Qatar and the region as a whole.
09.35AM: WEATHERING THE STORM — THE IMPACT OF FALLING OIL PRICES
TRI COnsulting associate director Chris Hewerr led the opening panel discussion which examined how lower oil prices are affecting tourism and the hospitality sector, and how Qatar’s hoteliers would battle against this to continue to break visitor records. “Qatar hospitality is extremely reliant on corporate business — we are under pressure, and our clients are under pressure, so it’s time to be creative,” said Shangri-La Doha GM Coen Masselink.
Last year a record-breaking number of guests visited Qatar, reaching 2.93 million, indicating that Qatar is increasingly gaining significance in the global hospitality market and a key emerging destination in the region. “With Qatar Airways expanding, along with the new airport, I’m optimistic; if we see the euro becoming stronger we will see more arrivals,” said W Doha Qatar general manager and area manager Qatar Safak Guvenc.
“The only way to retain your position in the market is by looking after your guests,” said W Doha general manager Andreas Pfister, who is also regional GM Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait for IHG. He added: “People will always go back to the places where promises were delivered. If you maintain service, people will continue to pay for your package, even during downturn; this will be the challenge in Doha — rather than dropping prices, maintain your service proposition.”
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