Berlin, March 4, 2025 – A day full of high-level discussions, valuable insights, and exciting future topics is behind us. As a member of the ITB Berlin Board of Experts, Dr. Markus Heller, Managing Partner at Dr. Fried & Partner, and his team were responsible for curating the Tour Operator & Travel Sales and Carrier & Cruise tracks – from topic development and speaker selection to the moderation of individual sessions.
The panels and interviews focused on key industry topics: How is the German tour operator market restructuring after the FTI insolvency? What steps must the aviation sector take to remain internationally competitive? How can new business models successfully combine sustainability and profitability? Together with industry leaders and experts, we explored these critical questions – providing important impulses for the future of travel.
For those who couldn’t join us live, here is an overview of our sessions, including the recordings:
Aviation Location Germany: What Does the Future Hold in International Comparison?
Germany’s aviation sector is facing major challenges: competitive disadvantages, regulatory hurdles, and rising costs. How can Germany regain strength as an aviation hub?
Rethinking the Future of Cruises – Exclusive Interview with Georg Schmickler
How is the cruise industry evolving? Which new markets are emerging? And how can growth be balanced with sustainability?
From Flight Destination to Integrated Value-Added Model: Transformation Made in Arabia
The Arab world is shaping the future of tourism and aviation with visionary strategies. What new business models are emerging? What opportunities does the region offer?
Sustainability and Economic Success: Contradiction or Opportunity?
Sustainability is no longer just about image—it has become a key success factor. How can ecological responsibility and economic success go hand in hand?
Shaping DERTOUR Group’s Future: Insights from Christoph Debus – Exclusive Interview
Christoph Debus, newly appointed CEO of DERTOUR Group, shared exclusive insights into the future strategic direction of the company.
Restructuring the German Tour Operator Market After the FTI Insolvency: Winners, Changes, and Future Prospects
The collapse of one of Germany’s largest tour operators has fundamentally reshaped the market. Where do we stand today? What changes are ahead? And who has benefited from the restructuring?
– Video coming soon –
Capital Markets Meets Tourism: How Investors Are Shaping the Future of the Industry
What role do investors play in driving the transformation of the tourism sector? Which segments are most attractive to capital providers?
Technology as a Driver of Individualized Travel Experiences
Personalization is becoming the key to next-generation travel experiences – but how can it be implemented profitably in a mass market?
Industry Outlook and the Importance of Indices for Market Development
From early indicators and market sentiment to performance tracking, which data points help the industry anticipate future developments?
With in-depth analyses, visionary discussions, and a packed audience, the ITB Berlin Convention 2025 once again proved to be the most important think tank for the travel industry.
A big thank you to all speakers, partners, and participants for the inspiring exchange – we are already looking forward to ITB Berlin 2026!