The Association of Group Travel Organisers (AGTO) has confirmed that Rachel McQueen, director of Tourism for Marketing Cheshire, will deliver the opening address at the Showcase Weekend this September.

Rachel McQueen - Marketing Cheshire Director of Tourism

The Showcase, due to take place at the QHotel Park Royal, Warrington, from 15th to 17th September, will bring together group organiser and associate members from all over the UK to participate in a programme of business and social sessions.

Participants can expect highlights such as a choice of specially tailored familiarisation trips arranged by Marketing Cheshire to attractions including Tatton Park, Port Sunlight and Chester Cathedral.

Other elements of the Showcase programme include networking sessions and a dinner with entertainment arranged by headline sponsor, made tourism marketing.

Rachel McQueen and special guests

Rachel McQueen will open the weekend with an address to visitors. McQueen is a strategic marketer with experience of destination promotion to both business, leisure and group travel organisers.

The rest of the panel will comprise James Silvester, chairman of AGTO’s Kent branch; Alex Jacobs, managing director of tour operator Northern Secrets; Sarah Goldsbrough, national sales manager for groups at Warner Leisure Hotels; and a representative from Chester’s new £37 million entertainment venue, Storyhouse. A group travel organiser will also be in attendance on the panel and is yet to be confirmed.

AGTO chief executive, Mike Bugsgang, said: “We are delighted that Rachel, George and the panellists have agreed to speak at the Showcase; their presentations will provide a valuable insight to members on new trends in group travel.”

Information and booking details of the AGTO Showcase can be found at www.agto.co.uk.

Topics