The news: SOTC Travel has launched a dedicated Professional Conference Organizer (PCO) and Exhibitions division to strengthen its MICE business. This strategic move positions the travel company to directly compete in the growing conference and exhibition market across India, marking a significant shift from its traditional leisure travel focus.
Why it matters for MICE operators: This signals increasing competition from established travel operators entering the PCO space. For independent DMCs and PCOs, SOTC's resources and existing hotel partnerships could reshape pricing dynamics. However, it also validates the market opportunity — major players only make this move when demand is proven strong enough to justify dedicated teams and infrastructure investment.
The takeaway: Monitor SOTC's pricing and service offerings closely, and differentiate your firm through specialized expertise in niche verticals or complex multi-city events that large travel companies struggle to customize efficiently.
Source: ET TravelWorld