Malta boosts advertising to stop decline

Malta boosts advertising to stop decline

THE Malta Tourism Authority has increased its advertising budget for 2002 to try to maintain business following the US terrorist attacks.

UK and Ireland office director John Montague would not discuss figures but saidthis year’s budget was up on 2000’s £1.5 million and has been increased again since September 11.

“We are outperforming the market, but there has been a decline in tourists since the attacks,” Montague said.

A television advertising campaign starts in Manchester and London from BoxingDay, but Montague has not decided how long the campaign will last.

Also, a press campaign starts in January featuring footballer Gary Neville.

The Manchester United star has signed a two-year deal with the tourism authority topromote Malta.

Meanwhile, Malta Tourism Authority has relaunched its website, www.malta.co.uk. Chairman John Grech said it has more information and is more user-friendly.

Users can produce their own brochures and there arewebcams showing the weather and key sights.

There is also a five-day weather forecast.