Outrigger sets up Russia rep

PHUKET Outrigger Resorts opened a sales, marketing and PR representation office in Russia, 1 January.
Moscow-based Travel Media is now responsible for Outrigger sales, representation, marketing, PR and travel industry relations in Russia and the CIS countries, which currently include Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Moldova, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
Travel Media Holding was established in 2005 and has a Moscow office of 40 personnel in sales, representation, PR, organising travel industry road shows and putting together travel industry buyer delegations.
The Russia office of Outrigger will report to Outrigger vice president sales & marketing, Asia-Pacific, Mark Simmons.
Inside no 6.1 Mark Simmons
Mark Simmons
“The opening of the Russia office adds another key market in Outrigger Resorts’ move to become the premier beachfront resort brand in the world,” said Simmons. “Over the last few years, more Russian holidaymakers and families have enjoyed the Outrigger Resort experience.”
On the Russian economy, Simmons added: “Outrigger is aware of the issues and is taking a proactive position based on a long-term, strategic view.”
Travel Media Holding, general director Elena, Vetrova, added: “Travel Media strongly believes that the variety of iconic beachfront resorts from Mauritius through Asia Pacific to Hawaii that Outrigger offers will be a perfect fit for Russian sun seekers.”
According to the latest statistics from various sources, around 500,000 Russians visit Phuket in Thailand annually.
Inside no 6.2 Elena Vetrova
Elena Vetrova
Phi Phi Island in Thailand attracts about 80,000, the Maldives 70,000, Mauritius 22,000, and Hawaii 24,000. Outrigger has resorts in all those destinations.
The World Travel and Tourism Council says Russia’s GDP will average growth of 4.8% between 2011 and 2020.
In addition to Russia and the CIS countries, Outrigger now has representation offices in China, Korea, Japan, Australia, UK, France, Germany, Thailand and the United States.
However, other business forecasting sources suggest the Russian economy will shrink this year and travel to Asia could be curtailed as spending power declines.

sourced:ttrweekly.com