Travel Experts Consider Shift to 'New Normal' for Business, Leisure Travel

U.S. Travel's Marketing Outlook Forum to Provide 2010 Projections, Guidance for Travel Marketers in Current Economy

September 10, 2009

Washington, DC -  Travel companies and destinations will learn about expected changes in consumer mindset and behavior stemming from the uncertain economic environment at this year's Marketing Outlook Forum - the U.S. Travel Association's annual strategic forecasting conference for the travel industry. The conference will take place October 26 - 28 in Little Rock, Arkansas.

"This is an extraordinary time for the travel industry. We're experiencing what could be a long-term attitudinal shift in how consumers and businesses view the fundamental value of travel,"said Dr. Suzanne Cook, senior vice president of research for the U.S. Travel Association. "Business as usual will not cut it; travel marketers must understand the changing mindset of the traveler and adjust accordingly. Travel providers who have their finger on the pulse of this new environment can capitalize on the opportunities that exist."

Delegates can expect to receive up-to-the-minute economic and industry forecasts, an examination of today's frugal consumer, newly-released market research from the Gallup World Poll, American Express and Ipsos Mendelsohn, among others, as well as session topics ranging from the latest on business and meetings travel to integrating online and offline marketing.

Notable speakers include:

Adam Sacks, Managing Director of Oxford Economics;

Jon Clifton, Deputy Director of the Gallup World Poll;

Geoff Ramsey, CEO of eMarketer;

Ryan Manville, Vice President of Business Insights for American Express;

Duane Vinson, Vice President of STR;

Mark Woodworth, Executive Vice President of PKF Consulting; and

Jerry Jones, Owner and General Manager of the Dallas Cowboys

Information on the Marketing Outlook Forum is available at www.ustravel.org. Media should contact Cathy Keefe at ckeefe@ustravel.org regarding complimentary registration or to schedule pre-forum interviews.

Contact:
Cathy Keefe 202-408-2183

The U.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representing all components of the $770 billion travel industry. U.S. Travel’s mission is to promote and facilitate increased travel to and within the United States. U.S. Travel is proud to be a partner in travel with American Express. For more information, visit www.ustravel.org.