Kerry Tourism Industry Federation (KTIF) welcomed tourism businesses, industry leaders, and key stakeholders from across the county to its 2025 Members’ Day at The Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney on Tuesday 26th March. This in-person gathering—the first of its kind in two years—provided a vital opportunity for members to reflect on progress, engage with decision-makers, and help shape the next phase of Kerry’s tourism development.

 

Addressing attendees, KTIF Chairperson Pat O’Leary emphasised the importance of collaboration and acknowledged the crucial role of KTIF’s member organisations:

Kerry’s tourism industry is built on the dedication and innovation of our member organisations and the businesses they represent. KTIF exists to ensure your voice is heard, and today is about working together to drive our sector forward. The Kerry Brand and Discover Kerry platform are major achievements which are being delivered in partnership with Kerry County Council and the Tech Industry Alliance, it is through our collective effort that we will truly capitalise on these opportunities and shape a sustainable and prosperous future for tourism in Kerry.

WORKING TOGETHER 

The event featured contributions from key industry figures who each reflected on the importance of county wide collaboration, including:

  • Breandán Fitzgerald, Cathaoirleach Ciarraí (Mayor of Kerry)
  • Fearghal Reidy, CEO of Kerry County Council
  • John Mulhern, CEO of Kerry Airport, who spoke on the importance of connectivity and infrastructure in supporting the region’s tourism growth
  • KTIF industry panel, featuring representatives from across Kerry’s tourism sector
  • Marketing & Sustainability presentations, outlining key strategies for the future of Kerry tourism

UNIFIED PLACE MARKETING

The past two years have brought both challenges and achievements for the industry, with one of the most significant milestones being the launch of the expanded Discover Kerry platform and the new Kerry Brand. Developed over five years in partnership with Kerry County Council and Tech Industry Alliance, this initiative has strengthened Kerry’s identity as a premier global tourism destination.

Photography: Don MacMonagle

 

THEMES & TOPICS

Throughout the day, discussions reinforced the importance of strategic investment, enhanced connectivity, and a unified approach to marketing and sustainability to ensure Kerry remains a competitive, world-class destination.

 

SHAPING THE FUTURE

Closing the event, Pat O’Leary encouraged all members to remain engaged with KTIF:

KTIF is your voice, your advocate, and your partner in shaping the future of Kerry tourism. Today’s discussions have been invaluable, but they must translate into action. By working together, we can ensure that Kerry not only meets the challenges ahead but thrives in the years to come.

With strong participation from across the sector—including accommodation providers, visitor attractions, activity operators, hospitality businesses, and transport services—KTIF reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for its members and ensuring Kerry’s tourism industry remains a driving force in Ireland’s economy.