KNYSNA NEWS - Knysna Tourism’s international sales representative in the UK, Robert Schaerer of Consultors RS, was in Knysna for four days earlier this week.
Robert was here to meet with the tourism body, its directors and members, and to familiarise himself with members’ products including accommodation establishments, restaurants and activities.
His appointment is in line with the service level agreement with the municipality, which requires international representation in key source markets.
Schaerer is a South African by birth who has lived in the UK for the past 30 years. During this time he represented SA businesses, most notably Three Cities, for 25 years.
He is well known and respected in the UK and European tourism industry and has established a significant database of leading suppliers to SA, as well as being a member of SATOA and ATTA, both of which are leading credible tourism associations in the UK.
Consultors RS also has excellent connections with Holland, Belgium, Germany and Italy.
Schaerer proposes to create and maintain awareness and interest in Greater Knysna through an effective, targeted trade campaign, based on strategic and bespoke initiatives, which highlights and promotes Knysna as unique yet affordable through tour operators in the UK and Ireland, by way of e-marketing, market support and sales meetings with tour operators and retail travel agents.
Knysna municipal manager Kam Chetty and Rober Schaerer.
He will also represent Greater Knysna at SA Tourism (SAT) functions and select international trade shows, including WTM in London, and attend SATOA, ATTA, and other specific African workshops on behalf of Knysna Tourism and its members.
His brief includes overseeing all marketing and public relations for Knysna Tourism in the UK and Ireland through the offices of SAT in London and Frankfurt.
“I look forward to working with a dynamic and passionate team to promote the jewel of the Garden Route," said Schaerer.
"The Greater Knysna area has an enormous amount to offer, so I am also hoping to be able to extend the average length of stay by tourists in Knysna and Sedgefield.”
Schaerer also met with municipal manager Kam Chetty, who welcomed his appointment and reaffirmed the vital role that tourism plays in the local economy.
Read a previous article: Hotshot marketer for Knysna
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