Ads to target US market

TOURISM IRELAND is to launch an extensive promotional campaign in the US from next Sunday as part of what it says will be a sustained…

TOURISM IRELAND is to launch an extensive promotional campaign in the US from next Sunday as part of what it says will be a sustained effort to grow a market which is essential to the success of Irish tourism .

According to the tourism body, the worst is now over for the travel market in the US and consumer confidence and travel sentiment there is improving. Tourism Ireland said its research indicated there was “pent-up demand for travel” amongst Americans. The US is vital for tourism to the island of Ireland and in 2010 some 760,000 American visitors delivered over €550 million in revenue for the economies north and south. American tourists stay in Ireland for an average of 9.3 nights.

The new campaign will mark the start of a year-long promotional drive in the US. Radio ads will air in cities with direct flights, and good indirect flight services, to the island of Ireland. The campaign will include online advertising on popular news and lifestyle websites.

In addition, Tourism Ireland's Go"webisodes" (a series of short online movies produced by Tourism Ireland and starring "real" local characters from around Ireland) will highlight the fun and spontaneity of a holiday here.

Conor Pope

Conor Pope

Conor Pope is Consumer Affairs Correspondent, Pricewatch Editor and cohost of the In the News podcast