It’s been another busy week for the North West business community as leading tourism, food and drink, and sporting experts came together yesterday for Ulster University’s Tourism Summit! The conference examined how peace has brought a dividend to tourism in the Causeway Coast and North West region of Northern Ireland over the past 25 years.

The summit also aimed to set the blueprint for tourism to continue to thrive, reaching even newer heights in terms of success and continuing to contribute to the local economy. Speakers at the conference included Tourism NI, Tourism Ireland, Visit Derry, City of Derry Airport, NI Tourism Alliance, Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Northern Ireland Screen, Royal Portrush Golf Club, Food NI, Hospitality Ulster, Walled City Brewery and others. 

Organised by Ulster University in partnership with ourselves and our colleagues in the Causeway Chamber of Commerce, this is the first time that we have come together to examine the challenges and opportunities ahead for tourism.

Chamber President Selina Horshi spoke at yesterday’s event and recognise the huge contribution that tourism makes for the North West and Derry’s economy. Speaking after the event, Selina said, “The Londonderry Chamber is delighted to be supporting Ulster University’s Tourism Summit. Tourism and hospitality are industries which are vital to the economic success of the North West, generate millions of pounds for our regional economy, and sustain jobs and households. Events like these are important in bringing key partners together to map out the future path for success in tourism in the North West and ensure our region remains an attractive location for global tourists, business visitors, and world-class events for years to come.”

International events like golf’s Open Championship and hit TV shows like Derry Girls have really put our region on the map in recent years and local businesses are reaping the rewards! Yesterday’s event was about harnessing all the good going on in our local tourism sector, mapping out a future path to ensure we remain a leading location for business and tourist travel, and put the right strategies and supports in place to help our local tourism and hospitality businesses thrive.