Ruby Sky saw three options: Scenario 1: The event planner organizes
and takes money from the client and pays the suppliers for the travel services. Under this scenario, registration under the Act is required. The event planner (individual or entity) would be required to meet all aspects of TICO’s registration criteria. Scenario 2: The event planner arranges and books travel services on behalf of the client and the client pays the suppliers or travel agent. Under this scenario, the event planner would be required to have an agreement with a registered travel agency, as a contractor and meet TICO’s Education Standard for Travel Counselor. There will certainly be proportionate fees attached to this in finding a registered travel agent to partner with. Scenario 3: The event planner provides adv ice to t he cl ient wh ic h hotel or accommodation to utilize and which transportation to utilize. The client makes the reservations and pays the suppliers or pays the travel agent. Under this scenario, provided the event planner does not make any reservations and only advises the client which travel services it should utilize, no action is required in respect to compliance with TICO. Costly Solution After many conversations with the various industry organizations and lobby groups such as the Business Events Industry Coalition of Canada (BEICC), the decision was made that the only option that made sense for Ruby Sky was to comply, and to register as a Travel Agency under the Ontario Travel Industry Act 2002 (TIA). Changing the company’s entire business structure would not be welcomed by long term clients who had come to expect this high level of service from us. This solution, unfortunately, won’t be realistic for everyone in the industry, as the requirements are definitely steep. The financial investment is significant and the barriers to entry include proof of a brickand-mortar establishment (not just a virtual business) and other limitations, most of which are financial. For those of us in this circumstance, adjustment of your business structure may very well be the best option. However, once you’ve made the commitment and investment, there are benefits. Although a commitment of time to study, both the Supervisor/Manager and Travel Counselor exams were not extremely difficult to pass. And as we are all looking for a great way to differentiate ourselves in this busy marketplace, this can be a great feather in your cap to set you
apart from the competition while the shift is underway. Finally, consumer protection IS important, and although a challenge initially for compliance, your client’s peace of mind (and yours!) is certainly worth adapting with the industry. Our industry is not unlike others, where curveballs are thrown, technologies change, and legislation is adjusted. Without change, the event planning industry would never survive. Our clients come to us looking for the latest venue, a unique design concept, a way to incorporate a new technology into their meeting, or a thrilling new entertainment idea. We have it covered; and are always on
the pulse of the next big idea. Adaptation is what planners do best. With that in mind, there is confidence that this will not slow us down. This is just the latest challenge – one we will all rise to. Kristin Hosie has extensive international conference and event management experience as well as an enviable track-record of leadership and success with her e vents. Kr ist in’s additional skills include event registration software, mobile apps, social media and Ruby Sky’s annual marketing campaign. For more information on how Kristin and her team can help you, visit www.rubyskyeventplanning.ca
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