SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS

Ensemble Travel Group will launch a series of technology and program initiatives and celebrate its 45th anniversary when the organization gathers at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs for its annual international conference, from Oct. 31 to Nov. 4. “Soaring To New Heights”was selected as the conference theme in recognition of the North American co-operative’s series of recent achievements. “Ensemble is more business-focused than ever before, more visible in our industry, more competitive in our individual communities, and truly the only North American travel cooperative in the industry,”said Lindsay Pearlman, co-president. “As a result, we are the only travel model being included in best-selling author Peter Sheahan’s new book that showcases innovative practices across a number of different business lines.”Sheahan, known for his “next-generation thinking,”will make a repeat performance as the conference’s keynote speaker. “Members and partners couldn’t get enough of Peter in 2011, but this year’s focus is quite different,”said Libbie Rice, co-president. “At The Broadmoor he’ll be sharing much of his sales and customer-service research gleaned from a cross section of our members, their clients, and some Ensemble partners. The take-away for attendees will be a formula for improving their sales performance and a blueprint for elevating their overall value to both their current and future customers.”Other firsts for the organization at its upcoming annual convention include Innovative Scheduling: A new event pattern – running Thursday to Monday – will allow attendees to come early or stay late to enjoy this multi-faceted destination. It also helps those members and partners unable to get away earlier in the week. In addition, evening events have shifted with the new conference schedule. The line-up includes a black-and-white Halloween reception on opening night, Oct. 31; Circle of Excellence and Make-A-Wish Auction, Nov. 2; and a closing party, Nov. 3. Nov. 1 will be a free night for conference attendees to enjoy dining and nightlife at The Broadmoor or in Colorado Springs. (http://www.ensembleagent.com)