BRETT JARDINE, managing director, Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO), looks at what will unfold for the tourism industry in 2025, and that includes heading to Madagascar for his own honeymoon!
What do you expect to happen in 2025, specifically relating to your industry sector?
Following a strong 2024 – the best year since 2019 based on forward bookings – I am optimistic about the touring sector’s trajectory in 2025. The demand for unique, expertly crafted travel experiences continues to grow, and we anticipate further recovery and expansion across the globe. As travellers regain confidence, we expect robust participation in group tours, private journeys, and themed itineraries, fuelling the sector’s growth.
What trends will dominate your industry sector in 2025?
Several key trends are set to define 2025 in the touring industry. Chief among them is the continued shift toward smaller group sizes and personalised private itineraries, as travellers seek more intimate, bespoke experiences. Additionally, there’s a growing emphasis on authentic, immersive travel, where connections with local communities, culture, and cuisine take centre stage. Sustainable tourism will also remain a focal point, with tour operators incorporating eco-conscious practices and experiences that minimise environmental impact.
What do you want to happen in 2025?
The ultimate goal for 2025 is stability across the geopolitical landscape and an interruption-free year for international leisure travel. Stability is critical not only for rebuilding confidence among travellers but also for enabling tour operators to execute plans and investments without the disruptions of recent years.
What major association initiatives do you have planned for 2025?
CATO will focus on several strategic initiatives in 2025:
- Accreditation Program: We’ll strengthen our accreditation program by enhancing independent and external health checks of our members’ financials. This reinforces our commitment to maintaining a professional, accountable, and robust industry standard.
- CATO Touring Academy: We aim to expand the Touring Academy’s reach by driving more active engagement with learners. This includes the launch of CATO Engage, an interactive platform designed to connect the industry, share insights, and foster collaboration through networking, leaderboards, and timely updates on touring news.
What are your personal goals for 2025?
On a personal level, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for me. I’m getting married in June and heading to Madagascar for our honeymoon – a destination that embodies my passion for unique, immersive travel experiences. It’s an exciting year ahead both professionally and personally.
Feature image: Brett Jardine is to be married in June and then heads to Madagascar for his honeymoon.
