Gironde: the Arès Tourism Office is committed to combining tourism and economic development

IN BRIEF

  • Office de tourisme d’Arès promotes the integration of local economic actors.
  • Meeting with merchants and artisans to discuss the sector’s challenges.
  • Goal: strengthen the link between tourism and economic development.
  • Creation of a network of merchants and artisans valued on communication materials.
  • Consultation to define concrete actions around various themes.
  • Collaborative approach with the Union of Merchants of Arès.

In an uncertain economic context, the Office de tourisme d’Arès adopts a proactive approach aimed at integrating all economic actors of the municipality into the tourism sector. Through various initiatives and collaborations, this office strives to combine tourism and economic development, fostering synergy between merchants, artisans, and local institutions to anticipate future challenges.

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A decisive meeting with local actors #

Recently, the Office de tourisme d’Arès organized a meeting at the Le Boïate hotel, gathering merchants and artisans from the municipality along with representatives from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) and the Chamber of Trades. The office director, Aurélie Princeau, emphasizes the importance of not succumbing to pessimism in the face of current economic difficulties while presenting the various supports offered by the consular chambers. This meeting marks the beginning of an approach aimed at strengthening the inclusion of economic actors in the tourism field.

An evolving economic framework #

The economic framework remains marked by challenges such as significant inflation and seasonal variations in tourism. Indeed, July did not meet expectations but was compensated by a good August. In this context, the Office de tourisme has recently evolved, moving from an associative structure to a municipal management, directed by Mayor Xavier Daney. This transformation allows for better coordination of efforts to develop tourism within the municipality.

A strengthened network of merchants and artisans #

The integration work of economic actors began two years ago, with the establishment of a network of merchants and artisans. The Office de tourisme then decided to promote its members through numerous platforms, including a dedicated website to promote local consumption. Initiatives like “One day, one portrait” and the Advent calendar also contribute to enhancing the visibility of local actors.

A constructive dialogue for concrete actions #

Last spring, a new cycle of meetings was launched to gather ideas and propel concrete actions in consultation with merchants and artisans. Three main themes were identified: Move and have fun, Consume, and Holidays in every season. The end of this consultation is planned for November and should lead to joint actions, envisaged and supported by the municipality as well as by the network members.

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A collaborative approach with the Union of Merchants #

This initiative is part of a framework of close collaboration with the Union of Merchants of Arès, chaired by Laurent Granel. Together, the partners will work on the development and implementation of projects that will promote sustainable and economically viable tourism while highlighting the richness and diversity of local offerings.