At the 19th International Bled Strategic Forum, hosted by the Slovenian Tourist Board and the Ministry of the Economy, Tourism and Sport, the tourism panel “The Power of Data in Tourism Today and Tomorrow” emphasized data’s crucial role in shaping sustainable, innovative tourism futures.
Hosted by the Slovenian Tourist Board in partnership with the Ministry of the Economy, Tourism and Sport, the tourism panel titled “The Power of Data in Tourism Today and Tomorrow” concluded successfully today at the 19th International Bled Strategic Forum in Bled. The event brought leading experts, government officials, and industry pioneers from Slovenia and around the world. They explored the transformative potential of data, emphasizing its vital role in shaping the future of tourism.
The panel of distinguished speakers demonstrated how data is revolutionizing tourism through personalized experiences, optimized management of tourism flows and strengthened sustainable development and environmental protection. The discussion highlighted that ongoing learning and innovation are essential for sustaining the sector’s competitive advantage. Participants unanimously agreed that high-quality data is fundamental to strategic decision-making and is key to driving sustainable growth in tourism.
State Secretary at the Ministry of the Economy, Tourism and Sport, Matevž Frangež.
In his opening address at the Bled Strategic Forum, State Secretary at the Ministry of the Economy, Tourism and Sport, Matevž Frangež, emphasized the pivotal role of data in shaping the future of Slovenian tourism. He stated: “Data is essential for making informed decisions and engaging effectively with both stakeholders and guests. We recognize the importance of investing in real-time data, which is why the National Information System developed by the Slovenian Tourist Board is so vital. We need data that empowers stakeholders in Slovenia and abroad to make sound business, marketing and policy decisions. As Slovenian tourism undergoes one of its most intense investment cycles, data is instrumental in driving sustainable development, enhancing the guest experience, and ensuring the well-being of local communities.”
Director of the Slovenian Tourist Board, MSc. Maja Pak Olaj
The Director of the Slovenian Tourist Board, MSc. Maja Pak Olaj, highlighted the critical role of data in the evolving tourism landscape: “As digital transformation reshapes industries worldwide, tourism must evolve alongside it. Slovenia, with its rich natural and cultural heritage, offers a truly unique experience, but it’s the power of data that can elevate and refine this experience. Our ability to intelligently analyse and apply data is key to crafting personalized and sustainable tourism solutions. These solutions will not only distinguish us from the competition but also guide us toward a future where sustainability and innovation closely intertwine. By embracing this approach, we can become more proactive, innovative and responsible in shaping the future of Slovenian tourism.”
Following the opening session, Natalia Bayona, UN Tourism Executive Director, and Eduardo Santander, Executive Director of the European Travel Commission (ETC), explored the impact of data on tourism from both global and European perspectives.
The panel concluded with a discussion featuring Dubravka Kalin, Director General of the Directorate of Tourism at the Ministry of Tourism and Tourism, MSc. Apolonija Oblak Flander, Director General of the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia (SURS), Erwin Hinteregger, Managing Director of IDM South Tyrol and Tobias Pogorevc, Managing Director of Helvetic Airways.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
