RICHMOND, BC — The Association of Canadian Travel Agencies (ACTA) welcomed a record turnout at its Western Canada Travel Industry Summit, held in Richmond, B.C.

The event, which took place yesterday, Sept. 18, drew a sold-out audience of 300 travel advisors and 75 exhibitors, making it the largest ACTA gathering in Western Canada to date.

ACTA president Suzanne Acton-Gervais noted the strong momentum carried over from the recent Eastern Canada Travel Industry Summit in Toronto. “Last week’s Eastern Canada Travel Industry Summit in Toronto was an outstanding success, filled with energy, collaboration, learning and engagement that set the stage for an exciting season ahead. Today, we are thrilled to bring that momentum to Western Canada, where our sold-out Summit is a true testament to the passion and dedication of our members. Their enthusiasm highlights the strength of our community and inspires us as we work together to build a stronger, more resilient travel industry.”

The Richmond summit was presented with the support of Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations, Manulife and Globus as major sponsors. Destination sponsors also played a prominent role, with the Tourist Office of Spain adding cultural flair through live Flamenco performances, alongside Brand USA, which highlighted U.S. travel opportunities for Canadian advisors.

The keynote address was delivered by Kerianne Wilson, director of customer accessibility at Air Canada. Wilson discussed the importance of accessibility in air travel, outlining new developments and enhanced strategies designed to improve travel experiences for passengers with disabilities. Her session offered advisors practical tools and insights to better support clients with accessibility needs.

Following the Richmond event, ACTA will bring its Quebec Canada Travel Industry Summit to Montreal on Oct. 1 at the Montreal Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel.