Holt Paris is well known as one of the leading DMCs in Paris with a rich history – have there been changes recently?

Holt Paris is not only one of the leading destination management companies in France but is one of the first established in the world! It was founded in 1960 by Alan Holt and brilliantly managed by him and his wife Susan (back-row/left in the picture) until the 2000s and then, until last year, Susan only. It has always specialized in business originating in North America.

I purchased Holt last year because with its emphasis on North America it complemented my existing DMC in Paris that focuses on European business very well. Going forward, while sharing common ownership and management, the two companies will continue to operate separately recognizing that European and North American needs and expectations are not the same.

Holt will continue to operate from the offices from where it started nearly 60-years ago, and we’re delighted that the existing staff have remained with us. Susan Holt continues as a consultant helping make the transition as smooth as possible. With a strong, dynamic team, with an emphasis on new ideas, creativity, customer service and care and attention to detail we believe we’re well-positioned to continue as a leading DMC in fabulous France for the next 60-years!

Paris has long been one of the world’s most sought-after tourist destinations, but isn’t that the problem – it’s old hat, there’s nothing new, is there?

Of course there is! Paris is a dynamic city, always full of life, always on the cutting edge of the new and innovative. The usual mistake is to consider Paris just as the traditional and romantic city that its always been. We still have the Eiffel Tower, Bateaux Mouches and Montmartre, but Paris offers so much more than that! Don’t forget that Paris is a city famous for fashion and the host to numerous fashion shows and photo-shoots every year – not least a few weeks ago when The Louvre welcomed Beyoncé and Jay-Z which was definitely very COOL!  Be sure to watch the widely acclaimed VIDEO.

Le Marais district houses the trendiest shops and art galleries in the whole country plus it offers the most coveted exhibitions in stunning venues such as the Grand Palais or the Louis Vuitton Foundation. Paris is a young and dynamic city full of surprises and we, at Holt, are delighted to offer these new services. And by the way, don’t forget that Paris ranked No 3 in the top ten cities and France No 4 in the top ten countries in ICCA’s 2017 top international meetings list!  

We know that incentive travel works, that it motivates and generates positive financial results for a small portion of the cost, but what can you do in Paris to stay relevant? Isn’t it true that the baby boomers’ lust for luxury has been replaced by the younger generation’s crave for cool? Is Paris cool?

We still have clients seeking luxury and we’re delighted to provide it, but you are right, the younger generation wants cool more than WOW! The good news is that Paris is very cool! Many former working-class districts are home to trendy bars and restaurants as refurbished factories or even squats are opening their doors to a younger corporate audience. At Holt Paris we have successfully introduced bicycle tours as well as street art tours with “meet the artists”, combined with exclusive cocktails in art galleries, and much more. Creativity is never a limitation.

Do you add value or cost to a meeting? What can you do that any North America meeting planner with an internet connection can’t do?

My favorite question! Why did Englishman Alan Holt establish the DMC concept in France 60-years ago? Because for North American travel agents seeking to organize group travel programs to France the only practical way to do that was by phone with someone they knew and trusted in Paris …and who was fluent in English! There was no internet or GDS so they relied on their contact in France and slowly and methodically Alan built his substantive inbound business and reputation.

The way we do business has changed dramatically since then, but the fact is people continue to do business with people they know and trust and there’s still no technology that surpasses the DMC’s local knowledge, expertise and creativity and can apply it cost effectively to the customer’s objectives. Once we know the purpose of the event and the demographics of the guests we apply our detailed product knowledge and years of event experience to create the perfect match. Yes, venue finding software is a help, the internet is a fabulous tool that enables us all to do a better job and do it quicker and both result in a better informed customer, but technology can never truly be a substitute for the experienced, high quality DMC. We take our responsibility to seek out new ideas, new partners, new combinations of services seriously because Paris is a vibrant, ever-changing city and the success of the customer’s event is paramount.

If you had to suggest one alternative to Paris in France that’s easily accessible from North America for a fabulous meeting or event, where would it be?

Definitely Bordeaux! A new trend in France, this historic city has evolved into a modern and dynamic metropolis where there are now many new venues extending way beyond the traditional wineries. Easily and comfortably accessible from Paris in just two-hours by TGV (the ultra-fast train), the transfer becomes an integral part of the program with an enjoyable lunch accompanied by a glass of Bordeaux wine as you admire the passing vista of France’s beautiful countryside. Imagine having exclusive-use of a private island inhabited by just one citizen! Or having a private lunch or a dinner for ten or more guests in a modern environmentally-friendly, culturally interesting building. Or hosting your most important customers to an inspiring sunset facing the ocean, feet on the sand on the Arcachon Bay, arguably the coolest venue in the trendiest region of France. Bordeaux is without a doubt the new place to be!