Northstar Travel Group Unveils Exclusive GTM Luxury Event for High-End Travel Market

Introduction to GTM Luxury

Northstar Travel Group, the parent company of Travel Weekly, is expanding its Global Travel Marketplace (GTM) franchise by introducing a new event tailored for the luxury travel market. The inaugural Global Travel Marketplace Luxury (GTM Luxury) event is set to take place at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix from July 28 to 30, 2024. This event aims to create a unique platform for luxury travel suppliers and advisors to connect and foster relationships.

Event Structure and Purpose

GTM Luxury will follow the successful format of previous GTM events, offering a highly curated and intimate setting. The event will feature structured one-on-one meetings between travel advisors and suppliers, exclusive boardrooms, and ample networking opportunities. The primary goal is to facilitate direct connections between suppliers and advisors who specialize in selling luxury travel experiences. Alicia Evanko-Lewis, Northstar Travel Group’s executive vice president of global events, emphasized that GTM Luxury is poised to set a new benchmark for luxury travel events. By merging the proven GTM formula with the distinct needs of the luxury travel sector, the event aims to foster lasting relationships and drive growth in the luxury travel space.

Eligibility and Participation

Travel agency owners and advisors interested in participating in GTM Luxury must meet specific criteria. They should have an established network of high-net-worth clients, possess at least two years of experience in luxury travel sales, and demonstrate luxury sales of at least $800 to $1,000 per person, per day. The event will attract a diverse range of suppliers, including high-end hotels and resorts, private jet and yacht charter services, luxury tour operators, destination management companies, tourism boards, adventure and expedition providers, premium lifestyle and wellness brands, and luxury cruise lines.

The Growing Importance of Travel Advisors

Mary Pat Sullivan, Northstar’s executive vice president of marketing and partnerships, highlighted the increasing significance of travel advisors in today’s consumer travel marketplace. The launch of GTM Luxury is a direct response to this trend, aiming to bring together key players in the luxury sector. The event underscores Northstar’s commitment to championing travel and supporting crucial industry connections and relationships. Applications for advisors will open in early 2025, and those interested in participating as supplier attendees can contact Emmy Smotrys at esmotrys@travelweekly.com.

Upcoming GTM Events

In addition to GTM Luxury, Northstar Travel Group has announced other upcoming GTM events. GTM West will be held at La Quinta Resort & Club in Palm Springs, California, from June 17 to 19, 2024. The flagship GTM event is scheduled to take place at the Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood, Florida, from July 10 to 12, 2024. These events continue to provide valuable opportunities for travel advisors and suppliers to connect and collaborate.