Hospitality NL keynote to discuss growth of the sharing economy and its impacts on tourism industry at 2017 Conference and Trade Show

For Immediate Release

January 12, 2017 – Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador is pleased to announce writer, broadcaster and futurist, Jesse Hirsh, as the keynote speaker for its upcoming Conference and Trade Show taking place in Gander, February 21st to February 23rd, 2017. The keynote session is sponsored by Marine Atlantic Inc.

“Today’s traveller is not interested in spending money solely on products and services while visiting a destination, but rather, is seeking out unique experiences that allow them to be immersed in culture and history, create extraordinary memories and truly appreciate what makes a destination and its people so special,” says Hospitality NL Chair, Dion Finlay. “The sharing economy facilitates connections between travellers and operators and the discovery of these types of tourism experiences. While there are certainly challenges presented to the traditional tourism industry, the sharing economy also presents significant opportunities for local, regional and provincial tourism stakeholders to work together to raise the industry as a whole to new heights.”

Through his excitement and curiosity for all things technology, Jesse will encourage delegates to grasp new opportunities and use changing business environments as a catalyst for collaboration, education, and building a stronger tourism industry. A researcher, digital strategist and consultant, Jesse has shared his expertise through Tedx Talks, interviews on Mansbridge One on One and various conferences and panels. Jesse owns and operates Metaviews Media Management Ltd., which focuses on research and consulting around new media business models, big data, and the strategic use of social media. He is also a co-founder of the Academy of the Impossible, a peer to peer lifelong learning facility. Jesse was educated at the McLuhan Program at the University of Toronto and recently completed a Masters degree at Ryerson University focusing on algorithms and predictive analytics.

Hospitality NL’s 2017 Conference and Trade Show will feature an exciting line-up of sessions and events, a supplier-focused trade show and exclusive learning and networking opportunities for all tourism stakeholders in attendance. In addition to the invaluable connections to be made with fellow tourism operators and leaders, the event features Hospitality NL’s Annual General Meeting, partner luncheons, local fun night and, of course, the Awards Gala recognizing some of our industry’s most innovative and talented individuals!

Hospitality NL’s Annual Conference and Trade Show is the largest annual gathering of tourism operators within the province and is taking place in Gander, February 21-23, 2017. Register today and take advantage of special rates on accommodations available only to registered delegates!

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Media Contact:
Melissa Ennis
Manager, Policy & Communications
Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador
E: mennis@hnl.ca
P: 709-722-2000 ext. 231
C: 709-227-1863