Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council held its annual 2025 Tourism Conference this week (Thursday 16th October) at Edenmore House in Magheralin, bringing together local businesses and industry leaders to highlight local strengths, network and discuss the latest trends and innovations for the sector.
The conference programme featured a diverse line up of speakers including Eimear Callaghan, Head of Experience and Industry Development Tourism NI, Helen McGorman, Head of Trade Engagement, Tourism Ireland, Christopher Connolly content creator ‘Explore with Criostior’, Grainne O’Connor Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark and Rachel Greer of Edenmore House.
Opening the 2025 Tourism Conference, Lord Mayor Alderman Stephen Moutray said,
“I am delighted to welcome local businesses from across the borough to learn about the latest developments and innovations from Industry leaders and hear from those passionate about the future of the sector.
Our local tourism and hospitality stakeholders are vital in the growth and sustainability of the sector. We hope today inspires continued collaborative working between businesses as well as with council for the shared goal of a thriving tourism destination”.
With a focus on the power of continued collaboration, the conference provided an opportunity for local tourism and hospitality providers to meet face to face, share information and learn from industry experts on the opportunities available from sector organisations.
Sustainability was a key theme for this year’s conference, highlighting the importance of becoming leaner and greener, consumer trends around sustainable travel and what that means for businesses on the ground. Recognition given to those businesses who earlier this year achieved an accredited certification on Sustainable Tourism Practices with Ulster University, a programme jointly offered to businesses by ABC Council and Tourism NI. Discussions explored new opportunities in the sector, as well as ways in which tourism can continue to evolve and adapt in the face of challenges.
The council is committed to drive tourism for the borough by providing memorable and unique visitor experiences, particular welcome was extended to the borough’s new Experience Development Programme participants, some of whom are new to
the Tourism sector and in attendance. It is through these initiatives the council continues to showcase its culture and stories, celebrating local food and orchard produce and delivering world class signature events to a domestic, national and international audience.
The Tourism Conference 2025 was compered by former broadcaster and journalist Karen Patterson.
The council provides ongoing support to local tourism and hospitality providers through the Tourism, Arts and Culture Department. For more information and advice contact: Joanne.McElmeel@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk
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