40 | CHART 26 AFFILIATION MATTERS The importance of trade associations cannot be emphasized enough. They have had the back of advisors during difficult periods and are consistently speaking up for the interests of advisors. In an effort to offer more to advisors, ASTA has rebranded its tradeshow, now calling it the ASTA Travel Advisor Conference. The 2024 conference includes a much heavier emphasis on education and a scaled- back trade show, shortened from two days to just one 9 . There are many benefits to joining a trade association. In May this year, Marriott International announced the All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy Incentive Program to offer advisors up to 1,000 points per room, per night on certain Marriott bookings. Advisors who were affiliated with a travel agency holding a valid accreditation (including with IATA, IATAN, or CLIA) would be eligible 10 . One advisor added, TRADE ASSOCIATION AFFILIATION, U.S. ADVISORS, SHARE (%) TRADE ASSOCIATION AFFILIATION, CANADIAN ADVISORS, SHARE (%) ACTA needs to be recognized by suppliers such as Disney. Just because they are Canadian does not mean luxury suppliers such as Disney should snub them! 9 https://www.travelagentcentral.com/your-business/asta-launches-rebranded-travel-advisor-conference 10 https://recommend.com/editors-picks/all-inclusive-by-marriott-bonvoy-launches-new-incentive-program/ 82% 51% 41% IATAN CLIA ASTA 95% 41% 24% IATA ACTA CLIA