The 7th Austrian Leading Sights Congress took place in Spielberg from 7 to 9 October, bringing together more than 90 representatives of Austria’s leading attractions, along with delegates from government, culture, tourism and the leisure industry. The agenda focused on the future and international positioning of Austrian tourism, proven industry success stories, quality management, and the strategic use of visitor and market data.
For three days, the Red Bull Ring was the hub for conversations about the future of Austria’s visitor attractions. Keynotes, panel discussions and personal encounters sparked fresh perspectives and left plenty of room for exchange, all in an exceptional setting.
Visions for the Future and International Insights
Following opening remarks from President Mag. Klaus Panholzer, Managing Director Patrick Quatember, State Secretary Mag. Elisabeth Zehetner and Michael Feiertag, Managing Director of Steirische Tourismusmarketing GmbH, the congress turned to the future of Austrian tourism. A panel discussed Vision T, Austria’s positioning, and how to communicate effectively in international markets. The panellists were Mag. Ulrike Rauch-Keschmann, Director General at the BMWET, Mag. Astrid Steharnig-Staudinger, Managing Director of the Austrian National Tourist Office, Mag. iur. Marlene Liebhart of KURIER Redaktionsgmbh & Co KG, and Mag. (FH) Paul Blaguss, Managing Director of Blaguss Reisen GmbH and Board Member of Austrian Leading Sights. Together, they explored how Austria can build on its tourism strengths and sharpen its profile on the global stage.
International success stories and practical takeaways for Austria’s leisure industry were another key theme. Jürgen Gevers, Managing Director of the German Association of Leisure Parks and Attractions (VDFU), Dr. Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck, Vice President of the Association of Zoological Gardens, and Dieter Borer, Head of the Alpine Region Representative Office at EUROPA-PARK, drew on their experience across different parts of the industry. Their contributions highlighted what it takes to succeed in a competitive international market and how businesses can tackle today’s challenges with practical solutions.
Looking beyond Austria’s borders underscored the value of international exchange for the continued development of Austrian attractions.
Quality and Data as Drivers of Success
Day two was dedicated to the latest findings on visitor numbers, quality management and data-driven decision-making. The central question: how can data help us better understand visitors and markets, spot trends early and further develop shared quality standards?
“I am extremely proud that we were able to welcome more than 90 participants to this year’s congress. Such strong attendance is a testament to the dedicated work of our association and shows how important personal exchange is within our industry. The strength of our membership is the foundation that enables us to build a lasting future for Austria’s attractions and actively shape what comes next,” said Mag. Klaus Panholzer, President of Austrian Leading Sights.
Austrian Leading Sights thanks all speakers, partners, members and participants for their insights and enthusiasm. Together, the members are raising the profile of Austria’s attractions, strengthening their quality and shaping the leisure industry of tomorrow.
