Tourism sector invited to shape success in Mid and East Antrim

Tourism and hospitality businesses across Mid and East Antrim are being invited to an industry event designed to help local enterprises thrive in 2025 and collaborate as the sector continues to evolve throughout the next year and beyond.

‘Tourism 2025 – Shaping Success in Mid and East Antrim’ will bring together key stakeholders and industry experts on Tuesday 26 November at The Braid in Ballymena, offering businesses vital insights and networking opportunities to strengthen their position in Northern Ireland’s tourism landscape.

The comprehensive session will feature presentations from Tourism NI, Tourism Ireland and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Tourism Marketing and Economic Development Teams, alongside the City Deal Growth Team – who will outline the ground-breaking Gobbins Phase II project plus the Carrickfergus Regeneration initiative – providing valuable insights on these specifically tailored projects aiming to boost tourism in the region.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Beth Adger MBE, said: “Our borough serves as the gateway to the world-renowned Causeway Coastal Route and continues to attract visitors from across the globe. Tourism is a vital economic driver for our region and this event comes at an incredibly exciting time as we prepare for transformative projects including the enhancement of The Gobbins and the ambitious Carrickfergus Regeneration scheme, both supported through the Belfast Region City Deal.

“These developments will significantly boost our tourism offering and it’s essential our local businesses are equipped to maximise these opportunities. This event will ensure our tourism sector has the tools and knowledge needed to capitalise on these investments and enhance our visitor experience. I would strongly encourage our tourism and hospitality businesses to attend this valuable session and help shape the future success of our growing visitor economy.”

The event will provide attendees with detailed insights into upcoming marketing campaigns and strategic plans, alongside practical advice for navigating the autumn and winter seasons. A dedicated Tourism Advisory Clinic will offer one-to-one sessions with the Council’s Economic Development team, allowing businesses to explore support opportunities through the Go-Succeed programmes and chat with representatives about the TXG platform which connects suppliers to distributors globally. In addition, Tourism Officers will also be available to assist with helping businesses get their online tourism listings updated on the Council’s ‘Shaped by Sea and Stone’ tourism website and improve their online presence.

With tourism playing an increasingly vital role in the borough’s economic growth, businesses are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to network with industry leaders and gain valuable insights into emerging trends. The session will also highlight how local enterprises can align their offerings with the region’s expanding tourism infrastructure and upcoming promotional campaigns.

Taking place at The Braid in Ballymena, the free event will run from 9:30am to 2:15pm, including networking opportunities and refreshments. Tourism and hospitality businesses interested in attending can secure their place through Eventbrite at: www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/ShapingSuccess

For additional information or queries, please contact the tourism team at tourism@midandeastantrim.gov.uk