PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - After almost 15 years of trading as Plett Tourism, the association has announced the end of an era and the prospect of new beginnings amid the closure of its office at Melvilles Corner, effective 1 September.
The Plett Tourism Association said its three-year service level agreement with Bitou Municipality ended on 30 June. It submitted a bid, alongside some other applicants, for the new tourism tender on 19 June, with the understanding that it would be awarded on 1 July.
However, after a six-week delay, the municipality announced that it had cancelled the tender and would issue a new one, and submissions are due on 2 September.
According to the association, the new tender's requirements and timelines make it impossible for Plett Tourism to participate. "Without a mandate, funding or certainty about the future, the association can no longer continue operating in the way it has historically done," it said.
The association said its existing financial resources would sustain operations until the end of September, while difficult decisions about operations and staffing had to be made.
Despite the office closure, Plett Tourism said it intends to maintain its digital platforms, website and communication with visitors and the tourism industry, while working towards a sustainable future. The association said it plans to engage the tourism sector early in 2027 on the possible relaunch of Plett Tourism, based on industry needs and a sustainable funding model.
Bitou Municipality has been approached for comment. It had not responded by the time of going to press.
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