GMT Group, which manages branded hotels - "Tbilisi Marriott", "Courtyard Marriott" and "Moxy Tbilisi", states that the number of conferences and corporate events at their accommodation facilities has decreased. The company's Marketing and Communications Manager, Mariam Pkhakadze told BM.GE.
According to her, Courtyard Tbilisi and Moxy Tbilisi still host small and medium-sized events, which ensures some stability in this direction. However, Marriott Tbilisi's large conference spaces are less utilized.
"The current season has proved quite challenging for the hospitality industry. Hotel occupancy rates have significantly decreased compared to the same period last year. We face particular challenges at Marriott Tbilisi located on Rustaveli Avenue.
Compared to last year, the number of high-class corporate bookings has decreased. The main source of conferences now comes from local companies. International corporate tourism is still waiting for recovery, though this process is proceeding at a rather slow pace," - stated Pkhakadze.
Regarding markets, Pkhakadze says that their customers traditionally come from India, the United Arab Emirates, China, and America. In the case of European tourists, demand has significantly decreased.
"Traditionally, our main markets are India, the United Arab Emirates, China, and America. During the current season, demand from Europe has significantly decreased," - Mariam Pkhakadze noted.
