What’s your recovery strategy in India?
The pandemic has changed the way we think about and experience travel. India’s strict lockdown measures fueled demand for short-haul travel and luxury stays. Destinations like the Maldives and Switzerland are benefiting from this surge in Indian travelers and outpacing other international source markets. This demonstrates the power of India’s pent-up travel demand and how highly Indian tourists prioritize travel.
Long-haul destinations can expect greater demand from India as widespread vaccination progresses and international destinations reopen. These three market strengths make India instrumental in travel’s recovery.
Why India Matters in the Recovery
- Varied travel segments bring more opportunity – India’s greatest marketing challenge is also its greatest strength. Home to 1.39 billion people, the market is made up of both traditional and growing niche traveler segments underscoring the rising appeal of India’s diverse tourism market.
- Spending power amongst top earners grows – While many segments of India’s economy suffered greatly through the pandemic, India’s top income earners saved money. The growth of India’s “at-home” economy is also giving pocketbook power to millennial and gen Z consumers.
- Digital advancements extend reach beyond major gateway cities –With more than 750 million people now under the age of 35, India has the world’s largest young population and the fastest-growing smartphone market in the world. These tech natives will help fast-track the growth of India’s outbound travel market beyond Tier 1 cities.
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Social Media
Social Media
Thoughtful social media editorial planning and an always-on approach helps us deliver quality content and enhance our clients’ reputation as a trusted resource. While Indians use popular Western social media apps (e.g. Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram), we help our clients deliver an authentic and culturally relevant content.
Digital Marketing
Digital Marketing
Print and broadcast advertising in India has historically been cost-prohibitive for many DMOs, leading to more limited destination marketing investments in India. With the rapid growth of mobile users in India, opportunities are abounding and changing the marketing landscape. East/West will guide you through India’s digital evolution and develop strategies that leverage India’s online travel market.
Peak Season Planning
Peak Season Planning
Apart from business travel, most Indians, especially the Visiting Family & Friends (VFR) segment, travel during holiday seasons. This includes summer holiday (Apr-July), fall holiday during Diwali/Dussehra (Oct-Nov) and winter holiday during Christmas/ New Year (Dec). Understanding consumer travel motivations and our clients’ need periods influence our in-market approach.
Sales Missions
Sales Missions
We have the optimal tools, network and team to plan effective sales missions and road shows in India. Whether we’re planning a mission with diplomats and dignitaries or partnership representatives, our team is equipped to handle the intricacies and sensitives of these significant visits. We do this while maximizing your time on the ground and ensuring you have a most memorable experience.
Travel Trade Promotions
Travel Trade Promotions
We work with hotel and airline suppliers to develop integrated destination marketing and promotional programs that are sold through major Indian OTAs, travel retailers and wholesalers. We build brand awareness and audience engagement through trade partnerships to complement our earned media efforts. These push-pull tactics are timely, measurable and cost-effective.