Saint-Vincent: A departure that leaves a taste of unfinished business

IN BRIEF

Jean-François Blanchet resigns from the presidency of the Pays de Duras tourist office.
After twenty-five years of service, his decision is influenced by weariness in the role.
Wants to give a new scope to the Saint-Vincent festival without support from the Community of communes.
Proud to have established the “Apprentoit” program to help apprentices.
Emphasis on synergy with local stakeholders to promote the area.
Proponent of a human approach to tourism, away from artificial intelligence.

An unfinished vision for the Saint-Vincent festival #

Jean-François Blanchet, an emblematic figure of tourism in the Pays de Duras, recently announced his resignation as president of the tourist office, after twenty-five years of dedicated service. This decision raises questions, particularly regarding his desire to bring a new dynamic to the traditional Saint-Vincent festival. In his statements, he laments the lack of support from community bodies to carry out his projects, thus highlighting an oversized ambition that remains unfinished.

A career marked by commitment

Since his arrival in Duras forty-four years ago, Jean-François Blanchet has established himself as a decisive player in the local tourism sector. Co-founder of the Hostellerie des Ducs, he also presided over the Union of trades and industries of hospitality in Lot-et-Garonne. His passion for promoting the local heritage and his commitment to the economic development of the region are invaluable. Throughout his career, he has always sought to build bridges between economic and tourism stakeholders, thus fostering a coherent and harmonious vision of the territory.

A regret for an ambitious project

In his recent statements, Jean-François Blanchet expresses a deep regret for not having been able to give the desired new scope to the Saint-Vincent festival. Despite his efforts to gather the various stakeholders involved, he has noted a resistance from the community of communes. This lack of responsiveness and enthusiasm can be seen as a hindrance to the flourishing of festive traditions that could reignite interest in the village and its assets.

Synergy in collective effort

Despite these obstacles, Jean-François Blanchet expresses pride in the progress made within the tourist office. He highlights the fruitful collaboration with several local stakeholders, while showcasing initiatives such as the “Apprentoit” program, aimed at helping apprentices find accommodation near their training locations. These efforts reflect his conviction that the tourism sector can closely interconnect with craftsmanship and agriculture, thus creating a robust economic ecosystem for the Pays de Duras.

A future to build

Jean-François Blanchet thus leaves behind a rich and sustained legacy, but departs with the feeling that there is still much to be done. Although his resignation marks the end of an era, it also paves the way for new actors who could bring a fresh and innovative vision to the sector. This handover is an opportunity for the community to reflect on the future of the Saint-Vincent festival and the tourist office in general, and to rethink approaches to energize the region.