Sunday 19 April 2009

Premier PADI Retail and Resort Members Address Future of Diving

Major International Retailer and Resort Conference held to Address Economic Challenges

Kurumba Island, Maldives – 13 January 2009 – Dive retailers and resort operators are facing unprecedented challenges. Recognizing that, PADI Worldwide and PADI Europe called leading retail and resort dive operators in the European, Maldivian and Egyptian regions together to address the future development of the regional market and survival in tough economic times. PADI’s Future Development of Diving Symposium, hosted in November 2008 at the Kurumba Maldives resort, joined together 10 countries and 24 premier PADI Dive Center and Resort members to discuss key aspects of business conduct and the strategic direction necessary to ensure a healthy future.

Dr. Drew Richardson, PADI Worldwide President and Chief Operating Officer, joined members of PADI Europe’s executive management to conduct the Future Development of Diving Symposium. The presentations explored diver acquisition and retention tactics, and other areas critical to business success. The group discussed international generational trends and targeted marketing tactics, advanced customer relationship management systems and techniques, and the need and demand for responsible, sustainable tourism. To set the tone for the days ahead, keynote speaker and renowned trendspotter Magnus Lindkvist kicked off the symposium with dynamic workshop and problem solving exercises, along with a highly entertaining and educated look into the future of business and how to capitalize on trends in consumer demands in an uncertain market. 

PADI eLearning® was also a topic of discussion, as PADI Retail and Resort members discussed the benefits and flexibility of the program. Participants shared eLearning success stories, with some claiming a 35 percent increase in new customers since the launch of the program.


To ensure high energy and strengthen the common bond that unites all PADI Members throughout the symposium, attendees enjoyed daily diving lead by the professional team at Euro-Divers Kurumba. Fueling the attendees’ passion for the sport, each dive provided a renewable well of inspiration for the day’s discussion.

“This symposium was testimony to the fact that we all have the power to improve our 2009 results if we choose a positive attitude and perspective about the future, even in uncertain economic times,” says Richardson. “We can’t change the circumstances of the world, but we can change our attitude and response to it.” 

As the industry leader in diver education and dive business, PADI continues to deliver information, customer support, consulting solutions, and results to PADI Members. Through PADI’s Future Development of Diving Symposium, PADI effectively mapped out a strategic plan identifying key actions necessary for delivering premier programs and unsurpassable service to divers, PADI Professionals and PADI Retail and Resort members worldwide. 

Others promise … PADI delivers.


Divenewswire

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