Maropeng at INDABA 2013

May 17, 2013
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Each year South African Tourism hosts INDABA, a travel trade show that takes place at the Durban ICC in early May. It is one of the most important tourism marketing events in Africa.

This year, Maropeng was represented by managing director Tony Rubin and education and marketing executive Magel van de Venter.

Both agreed that the event was a great success for Maropeng. As a brand, Maropeng was able to gain valuable exposure in the tourism industry.

What did you learn from Indaba 2013?

Van de Venter: “Indaba is a tourism platform that is mainly about promoting your brand. It’s a great way to do business with business-driven individuals.”

Rubin agreed, saying it was a productive event for Maropeng.

Did you meet interesting people?

Rubin: “We met different tour operators with their market facilities, which are always incredible to see.”

Van de Venter: “Maropeng works closely with Southern Spoor, which handles the marketing for Maropeng, and they were at INDABA this year too. The most important factor is to make sure that you follow up with all the people that you network with in order to create long-lasting business relationships. You need to make INDABA work for you.”

Maropeng
Maropeng this year shared a stand with Southern Spoor

Comparing INDABA 2013 to INDABA 2012

Van de Venter: “INDABA 2013 was very productive and it’s important to utilise your time effectively. Pre-booking was vital because the exhibition gets bigger every year.”

What are your expected outcomes?

Van de Venter: “INDABA is about reassuring your market about your brand. It is important to re-establish your brand at such an event, sharing news and opportunities with potential clients.”

Rubin: “The purpose of INDABA is to gain new potential business. Our main purpose was to sign new contracts that could potentially lead to the growth of Maropeng as a brand.”