Over 50 companies to take part in rival travel fair in March

Over 50 companies to take part in rival travel fair in March

SINGAPORE - A travel fair which will rival the one held by the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (Natas) has confirmed a list of over 50 exhibitors including major players like the four big travel agencies and Singapore Airlines.

Previously known as Outbound Travel Fair, the Travel Revolution will be held at The Sands Expo and Convention Centre on Mar 27 to 29, reported The Straits Times. Admission for both fairs is free.

The name change "signifies the need for travel agencies to be visionary" amid the changing travel landscape and habits of travellers, added the English daily. The news of the travel companies breaking away from Natas came about last November.

Reports said the Big Four - travel agencies SA Tours, Chan Brothers Travel, Dynasty Travel and CTC Travel - have backed out from the association after disagreements arose over issues such as entrance fees charged to the public and how the proceeds from the fair were used.

Along with 20 other agencies, the Big Four later announced plans to hold their own fair in 2015 and the dates will coincide with Natas event dates in March, said an earlier Today Online report.

Natas subsequently offered to reconcile their differences and announced that its travel fair in March 2015 will have free admission, lower booth rental charges and better publicity, reported The Straits Times.

Their efforts appear to be futile as the travel agencies did not return to the association and the rival fair looks set to be held in March.

wjeanne@sph.com.sg

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