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IN BRIEF
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In the tourist landscape of Lot, Figeac stands out with a dynamic that wavers between challenges and opportunities. A recent meeting at the intercommunal tourist office highlighted the results of a contrasting season, while announcing the arrival of a new director. This article explores the issues Figeac is facing as well as the median prospects that are emerging on the horizon.
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A somewhat lackluster tourist season #
The tourist season of 2024 left a bitter taste for local stakeholders. Isabelle Clary, deputy director of the tourist office, specified that this year did not meet expectations, standing in stark contrast to the record year of 2023. “A year to forget,” she stated, emphasizing the gap with previous attendance figures. However, a peak was observed during the months of April and May, with increased activity around August 14.
The six reception offices in the region, including those in Cajarc, Capdenac, and Marcilhac-sur-Célé, all experienced a drop in attendance, except for Capdenac-Gare. The new geographical layout of the latter, near the banks of the Lot, has allowed it to gain increased visibility, attracting more visitors. In total, the number of visitors fell to 135,282 in 2024 compared to 138,754 the previous year, representing a decrease of 2.5%.
Encouraging digital trends #
Despite the decline in physical attendance, a positive note emerges from the online statistics. The tourist office’s website recorded 146,000 visits, reflecting a significant increase of 28%. This phenomenon indicates a shift in behavior among young tourists, who are now more inclined to plan their trips in advance. Isabelle Clary noted this emerging trend: “Young people come looking for reassurance that confirms their choices,” indicating a need for precise information before making their travel arrangements.
A new breath of fresh air with new leadership #
One of the key moments of this meeting at the intercommunal tourist office was the appointment of Anne Pétrix-Pinquier as the new director, taking over from Pierre Kovacic, whose contract ended in September. Benoît Normand, the president of the office, described the selection process, noting that of the eleven applications received, five were shortlisted for in-depth evaluation. This unanimous choice reflects a desire to inject new dynamism into the office, with the start date set for January 6, 2025.
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The appointment of a director like Anne Pétrix-Pinquier, a former employee of Cauvaldor, bolsters hopes for a renewed momentum. At just 43 years old, she brings fresh ideas and a deep understanding of the area, which are essential for enhancing the attractiveness of Figeac both locally and regionally.
Future challenges for tourism in Figeac #
In the future, the challenges for the tourist office will focus on the attractiveness of Figeac in light of new visitor expectations. The necessity to innovate in tourism offerings will be crucial to capture the attention of a public in search of authenticity and personalization. The development of recreational and cultural infrastructures could also play a pivotal role in this transition.
Furthermore, the growing role of technology and digital platforms in the tourism sector necessitates constant adaptation. A proactive strategy aimed at strengthening online presence and engaging in conversation with visitors through social networks could foster a positive transformation of the image of Figeac.
