Talk tourism in Teignbridge
From Dartmoor to Hollywood via a zoo - if anyone has got a tale or two to tell it's Benjamin Mee.
And Teignbridge tourism businesses will get the chance to hear it for themselves after Benjamin, the owner of Dartmoor Zoo and author of We Bought A Zoo, was confirmed as the keynote speaker for Teignbridge’s third Talking Tourism Conference.
Teignbridge District Council, in association with Visit South Devon and The Dartmoor Partnership, is hosting the annual event which brings together industry experts, decision makers and stakeholders to discuss issues important to them improve networks and share ideas to boost business.
Both organisations are delighted that Mr Mee is attending and urge businesses to book now to secure their place.
The conference is free of charge and is being held at Langstone Cliff Hotel, Dawlish Warren on Thursday 21 November 2013. Registration begins at 9.30am and includes a networking lunch. It wraps up at 2pm.
The conference has a slightly new format this year with a fresh focus on involving delegates as much as possible. The day will include a social media workshop being run by Kate Doodson from Honiton-based Cosmic Ethical IT. It will allow delegates to interact with Kate on their smart devices and learn how social media can benefit their business.
A freelance journalist, writer, conservationist and zoo owner, Mr Mee will share his ideas and experiences of owning a business, the challenges and the rewards.
Formerly known as Dartmoor Wildlife Park, the zoo was purchased by the Mee family and following major refurbishment work, reopened in July 2007 as Dartmoor Zoological Park.
The story was captured in the BBC documentary, Ben's Zoo and in Benjamin's book, We Bought a Zoo which was published in over 20 countries and was adapted for Hollywood starring A-listers Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson.
Benjamin Mee said: "I'm delighted to share my experiences of running a seasonal leisure attraction in the South West through two recessions and six of the wettest summers on record."
Teignbridge District Council’s leader Cllr Jeremy Christophers said: “We are thrilled to confirm Benjamin will be the keynote speaker. Dartmoor Zoological Park is a great example of how businesses can be transformed and Benjamin's story is fascinating.
"The Teignbridge Tourism Conference is a great opportunity for local businesses to come and discuss any issues of importance to them with elected representatives and experts from within the tourism sector.
“Local businesses are key to Teignbridge's economic prosperity and we aim to help support them to achieve success which has really positive benefits for us all – secure futures, a better economy and even brighter prospects for the future.
“We do this in a number of ways including regular business briefings, networking events and providing advice on relocation, assistance packages and supporting projects through our Economy and Regeneration service.
“We want to hear from anyone involved in the tourism sector and businesses which support tourism - for example, catering suppliers, photographers, recruitment firms and website designers. Anything goes! Come along, share your stories and benefit from advice on offer."
Jessica Yeoman, Visit South Devon’s Marketing Manager, said: “We're so pleased to be involved in the Teignbridge Tourism Conference once again this year. It's a great opportunity for us to showcase Visit South Devon and what we have been doing throughout 2013 to encourage visitors to the area but also to meet local tourism businesses.
“Meeting the accommodation, attractions, restaurateurs and retailers is invaluable to us: we can discuss how the season has gone and gain valuable feedback from both members and non-members.
“We are looking forward to be involved and being on-hand to talk to the businesses throughout the day."
Delegates will also have the chance to present a two-minute nugget on their own business. In the past business owners who have embraced this opportunity and as a result of their enthusiastic pitches have gained several new customers.
The quickest and easiest way to register is through Teignbridge's website: www.teignbridge.gov.uk/tourismconference
Or speak to Joe Walsh on 01626 215485 or email economyandtourism@teignbridge.gov.uk
