Although the figures that the Fitur 2009 Exhibition has at the moment are satisfactory, Ana Larrañaga has spoken about the difficult times that many companies are experiencing, which will have an influence on the Fair, as a true reflection of the current economy of the sector. However, the director of Fitur especially wished to call attention to the 725 direct companies that, at a time of global economic difficulties, “have confirmed their attendance and are making the effort to be present at the Fair, which is the best platform for the national and international tourism sector”.
Larrañaga added that the organisation of the exhibition is working harder than ever to meet the expectations of the bodies that have made a commitment to Fitur 2009 and, therefore, to the tourism industry. In this respect, she reminded us that the commercial activity of the Fair will be complemented, as in other years, by a rich programme of conferences, activities and seminars.
Luis Eduardo Cortés, Chairman of Ifema’s Executive Committee, Fermín Lucas, Managing Director of Ifema, and Ana Larrañaga, Director of Fitur, have presented the general outlines of this year’s fair, which despite the difficult economic environment, has recorded an occupation of 87% three months before it opens, and a substantial increase in international attendance, which this year will represent 45% of the total participation, as well as the full participation of all Autonomous Communities and a large number of companies from the tourism sector, which once again have chosen Fitur as their main promotional and trade expansion forum.
Luis Eduardo Cortés wished to emphasise that “taking into account the economic forecasts for 2009 and with the results that we have received so far, we can say that this year’s Fitur will be very successful, and that is thanks to the efforts being made by both the public and private sector”. The Chairman of the Executive Committee of Feria de Madrid reminded us of the importance of the exhibition for Spain and for the whole tourism sector “Fitur is one of the most important national exhibitions and an undisputable leader on the international circuit of Fairs specialising in the travel segment. It is also an essential promoter for an industry like tourism, which is so important to Spain”.
Finally, both the director of Fitur and the chairman of Ifema indicated that in the present economic climate, “tourism remains strong, especially if we compare the effect that the economic slowdown is having on other industries”.
