TORONTO — ACTA has taken another step in shaping its future direction, with its Board of Directors and President gathering in Montreal last week for a strategic planning session focused on priorities for 2027-2029.

Hosted at Transat’s headquarters, the meeting centred on ACTA’s four strategic pillars – Advocate, Educate, Promote and Connect – and explored how the association can continue to support travel agencies and travel advisors across Canada amid an evolving industry landscape.

Board members reviewed ACTA’s achievements to date, examined emerging industry opportunities and challenges, and discussed ways to strengthen the value delivered to members in the years ahead.

“ACTA extends its sincere appreciation to the Transat team for their exceptional hospitality,” said Suzanne Acton-Gervais, ACTA President. “Hosting the Board at its headquarters offered far more than a meeting venue – it provided an opportunity to experience the organization firsthand and gain a deeper understanding of its culture, operations, and commitment to excellence. Board members were impressed by the engagement, professionalism, and pride evident throughout the company.”

As part of the visit, board members attended an executive presentation led by Renée Boisvert, Vice President, Product and Tour Operator Sales and President of Transat Distribution Canada (TDC), along with Julie Sareault, Commercial Director.

According to ACTA, the presentation offered valuable insights into Transat’s vision, business developments and evolving product offerings, contributing to broader discussions about the future of the travel industry.

ACTA noted that it looks forward to exploring opportunities to share some of these updates with travel agencies and travel advisors across Canada.

BOARD MEMBERS RECOGNIZED 

ACTA also acknowledged the contributions of its Board of Directors, who dedicated several days, including travel time, to participate in the planning process.

According to the association, the discussions benefited from the board’s diverse perspectives, industry expertise and commitment to supporting travel agencies and advisors nationwide.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our Board members for their commitment, engagement, and leadership throughout this process,” said Acton-Gervais. “I recognize the significant professional and personal demands on their time, and I am deeply grateful for the dedication they bring to ACTA and the travel agencies and travel advisors we represent.”

She added: “The quality of the discussions, the diversity of perspectives, and the willingness to engage in thoughtful and constructive dialogue were evident throughout our time together. This session reinforced how fortunate ACTA is to have such a dedicated, experienced, and engaged Board. Their collective expertise, integrity, and shared commitment to our members give me great confidence in the future of our Association and the industry we support.”

Looking ahead, ACTA said it remains committed to advancing the interests of Canadian travel agencies and travel advisors through advocacy, education, promotion and connection while helping ensure a strong future for the travel industry.

Lead image caption (from l-r): Lyne Côté, Michael Johnson, Monica Johnstone CTC, Julie Sareault and Renée Boisvert from Transat, Suzanne Acton-Gervais, Marco Pozzobon, Melanie Carter CTM, Kamal Dames, Gary Gaudry, Mark Greenwood, Peter Keyter. Not pictured: Brian Robertson, Rocky Racco, Zeina Gedeon, Heather Calvert & Serge Malaison