Tom Randles, President of the ITAA, told the conference that the gathering represented more than business, focusing on connection with colleagues, partners, and new ideas for the sector’s future. He paid tribute to his mentor, George Butter, honouring his legacy and strong connections to Portugal. Randles framed the event as an opportunity to address challenges, share insights, and explore opportunities that will shape client journeys in the coming years.
The president outlined key topics for discussion, including the impact of artificial intelligence on operations, from streamlining processes to personalising customer service. He noted that while technology will transform the industry, the skilled Irish travel agent’s empathy, experience, and creativity will remain central. Additional sessions were set to cover strategic marketing, the landscape of mergers and acquisitions, and nurturing the next generation of travel professionals.
Randles highlighted the strengthening travel relationship between Ireland and Portugal, with increasing numbers of Irish holidaymakers visiting the country each year. He positioned travel professionals as playing a proud role in building and flourishing these international connections. The conference was presented as a platform to celebrate collective achievements and to foster confidence and enthusiasm for the road ahead.
ITAA conference aims to balance a forward-looking embrace of technological innovation with a reinforcement of the core human elements of travel consultancy. Set in a symbolic location, the event encourages collaboration and professional growth while reminding delegates of the fundamental joy and value of travel itself.
Tom Randles told delegates: “Central Portugal is a place where history, culture, and tradition come together in a way that reminds us why we fell in love with travelling in the first place. This conference is about more than just business. It is about connection, connection with colleagues, with partners, with new ideas, with the future of our industry. While technology like artificial intelligence will transform our industry, the skilled Irish travel agent’s empathy, experience, and creativity will remain essential.”
