TICO held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 24SEP 2024 to share the organization’s accomplishments from the previous fiscal year.
“As we reflect on the past year, it’s clear that the travel industry is not only recovering but evolving,” said TICO CEO Richard Smart.
“Our role is to ensure that there continues to be a fair and safe marketplace where Ontario businesses can thrive, and consumers can feel protected and have peace-of-mind in their travel purchases.”
Updates included:
Remarks from the Honourable Todd McCarthy, Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement Ministry.
Minister McCarthy commented on the importance of consumer protection in an evolving travel marketplace.
- An update about TICO’s implementation of the recommendations in the Office of the Auditor General of Ontario’s value-for-money audit report published in December 2023. To date, TICO said it has addressed 21% of the action items under its control, with the remaining recommendations progressing on schedule. The recommendation to review the Travel Industry Act, 2002 and TICO’s mandate is under consideration by the Ministry.
- Ongoing recovery of the travel sector, with strong year-over-year growth and aggregate Ontario Gross Sales reaching pre-pandemic levels. TICO said it will continue to monitor consumer confidence related to future travel spending and the impact on industry.
TICO welcomed two new Directors to the TICO Board:
- Gregory Luciani, CEO, TravelOnly Inc. – industry elected Director for a three-year term; and
- Jeffrey Steiner, Chair, Canada-Saudi Business Council – public elected Director for a three-year term.
TICO acknowledged the two outgoing Directors:
- Doug Ellison, President, Ellison Travel and Tours
- Archana Gupta-Harit, Partner, Haritage Consultants
Following the meeting, the Board of Directors named Robert Townshend as the vice-chair of the Board.
“On behalf of the Board, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to our outgoing Directors for their lasting contributions towards TICO’s consumer protection mandate,” said TICO chair Michael Levinson.
“I would also like to recognize all the candidates who put their names forward for election. Your willingness to serve and contribute your expertise reflects a deep commitment to Ontario’s travel marketplace.”
An AGM recording will be available to all registrants next week.
