NEW luxury travel show Blossom will launch in Japan in January. TTN spoke to organiser Jay Martens to get all the details.
What is the reason for launching Blossom Japan?
Japan, as a destination, is a fascinating place. The offer for luxury travellers is one of the very best in the world. However, the problem is that it is not well known internationally. There is a need to create ‘Brand Japan’ and position the destination so that it attracts the right travellers.
Japan is a well sought-after market for all the luxury travel brands, it represents 20 to 30 per cent of their revenue and currently there is no platform that offers key players in the industry the right access to the country.
The travel industry is seeing new developments in Japan, with the emergence of boutique agencies, concierge services and lifestyle and travel advisors. This change has led to a new dynamic in FIT luxury travel and Blossom Japan has been launched to support this.
How will Blossom Japan differ from other travel exhibitions?
We have created a platform where every single detail has been planned and arranged so that the needs of every participant are met. Our starting point has been to create the best possible return on investment. Our rigorous vetting process will guarantee that who you meet during the event is really one of the best products or agents servicing their region.
The event is by invitation only and a lot of attention has been paid to making the experience of the destination a key part of it.
How will Blossom Japan influence the inbound and outbound Japanese market?
By inviting the top luxury travel advisors, agencies and the quintessential travel media and lifestyle editors from all over the world, the inbound market in Japan will have the best possible tool, in Blossom Japan, to showcase the very best on offer in the country. It will offer every delegate the opportunity to experience the destination and develop their product knowledge so that they can sell Japan as the luxury destination in Asia Pacific.
The experienced FIT high-end traveller in Japan, is seeking new thrills and exciting experiences when planning their next trip. Blossom Japan will be the ideal platform for specialist agencies and travel advisors to source and discover new products.
Why did you decide to organise this event in Japan when the current luxury market in Japan and the economy are on a downturn?
Luxury travel is a $150-billion industry and is one of the most resilient in the world. High-end travellers represent only two per cent of travellers worldwide but are responsible for more than 20 per cent of revenue. This represents an opportunity for Japan as a destination. With the right positioning the economy could benefit tremendously from a new influx of luxury travellers.
What will Blossom Japan aim to accomplish?
Position Japan as the leading luxury travel destination in Asia Pacific and support all efforts to ensure the right positioning of ‘Brand Japan’.
Make Japan the first point on the agenda of every high-end travel brand by hosting the event every year in January and being the first travel event on the international calendar.
Create a new dynamism in the travel industry in Japan and position luxury tourism as a key pillar of the Japanese economy.
Encourage more investment in Japan from luxury travel brands by creating a marketplace that guarantees return on investment.