Sands China Ltd., a premier casino and resort operator in Macau, has announced a strategic partnership with Agoda, a leading digital travel platform. The collaboration aims to enhance international tourism to Macau by launching multiple marketing campaigns in the fourth quarter of 2024.
The partnership will focus on combining the strengths of both companies to promote Macau as a prime destination for international tourists. This initiative will leverage Agoda’s extensive resources in Asia, targeting key markets to attract more visitors to Sands China’s iconic properties.
Making a Positive Impact on Macau’s Tourism
The partnership is set to deliver customized products and experiences for high-value guests from overseas, further boosting Macau’s tourism economy.
Kris Kaminsky, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations at Sands China, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating as follows:
“We are thrilled to have cemented this meaningful agreement with Agoda. As visionary companies in our respective industries, we believe that we can make a positive impact on Macau’s tourism economy, and this is further demonstration of Sands China’s commitment to supporting the various tourism+ initiatives and increasing diversification of visitor source markets.”
Improved Customer Experience
In addition to marketing campaigns, Agoda will launch a new feature on its platform that promotes flight cross-selling to Sands China’s properties. This will offer travelers an enhanced booking experience, allowing them to conveniently plan their entire trip, including accommodations, flights, and activities.
Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President of Supply at Agoda, commented:
“At Agoda, our goal is to simplify travel booking and enhance convenience for our users. Through this partnership, we can provide visitors to Sands China’s properties the opportunity to experience the unique attractions of Macau and see the world for less.”
The collaboration underscores Sands China’s dedication to expanding its reach and solidifying its position in Macau’s tourism market. As the operator of five integrated resorts, including the famous Venetian Macao and Parisian Macao, Sands China continues to play a pivotal role in driving the growth of Macau’s leisure and business tourism.
Analyzing the Figures
Macau’s economy experienced significant growth in the first half of 2024, with a 15.7% year-on-year increase in local gross domestic product (GDP), reaching MOP204.3 billion. This marks the first time GDP has surpassed MOP200 billion since the same period in 2019, as reported by the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC). The economic recovery is now at 86.2% of pre-pandemic levels, largely driven by strong service exports and domestic demand.
Exports of services saw a 17.6% rise, with gaming and tourism services contributing 39.9% and 2.8% growth, respectively. In contrast, merchandise trade faced declines, with exports dropping 15.9% and imports falling 3.3%.
Private consumption surged by 7.8%, buoyed by improved income levels and a stronger labor market. Household final consumption rose by 7% domestically and 13.5% abroad, while government spending fell by 14% due to the end of the livelihood subsidy program.
Gross fixed capital formation grew 9.8%, driven by a 29.8% rise in private equipment investment and a 14.7% increase in private construction investment.
Macau’s economic outlook remains positive as gaming taxes surged 58% in 2024, despite some reductions in public construction investment.
Source:
“Sands China and Agoda announce partnership to drive international tourism to Macau”, asgam.com, September 5, 2024.
