Timeshare conference focus on regional potential

Organisers say it will provide a platform to accelerate the expansion of the timeshare sector in the Middle East.

Attendees will find out how entering this growing sector of hospitality and real estate can improve the bottom line and increase occupancy rates, amenity and outlet usage year round; meanwhile the various profit centres will be identified, and what can be expected from each will be reviewed.

Topics under discussion on the day include the reasons behind the increasing global popularity of timeshare; the fundamentals essentials for success in timesharing and how to achieve that success; the steps necessary for successful entry into the industry; timeshare exchange; differentiation between timeshare, hotel membership clubs, fractional ownership, and private residence clubs; plus new products, services and strategies to boost interest in the sector.

According to organisers, Interval International, the conference also provides a thorough grounding in all aspects of vacation ownership as well as a vital networking opportunity for those new to the industry.

"As a new word in the lexicon of the hospitality sector in the Middle East, timeshare is not fully understood by many and TRIC will help to unlock the intricacies of how it works, why it's set for exponential growth here, the profits to be made, and the secrets to success in selling and marketing the product," said David Clifton, Internal International's managing director Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia.

"The industry currently covers 5,500 resorts in 95 countries with 7.5 million owners worldwide and annual sales well in excess of US$10bn, but the Middle East's share of this vast market is currently minimal. However, we see huge industry growth potential throughout the region and expect a keen interest from developers and hotel companies who will benefit from inter-acting with top timeshare professionals and attending the information packed conference sessions," he said.

Aimed at senior management and business development executives in the hospitality and real estate industries, TRIC features a number of interactive sessions including a Leaders' Panel where delegates can quiz timeshare professionals on the fundamentals of the sector and the potential for the Middle East as a growth area.

As well as introductory sessions covering the basics of the global timeshare industry, the conference will also include presentations from Marriott, a key player in timeshare and residence clubs; Dubai Festival City as a mixed use development, and consultants HVS, who will focus on how to be successful in the business.