27 January 2010

Knysna assists crafters to promote sustainable tourism for 2010

Submitted by: Nicci Rousseau-Schmidt
{pp}Knysna Tourism facilitated the first of a series of workshops to ensure local crafters benefit from the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ Tournament later this year. The first workshop last week focused on the use of official trademarks relating to the tournament and the workshop was presented by Craig Carbutt from the Cape Craft & Design Institute (CCDI) in Knysna.

Knysna Tourism CEO Shaun Van Eck said that the town could expect an unprecedented influx of visitors during the upcoming football tournament. “Knysna will host both the French and Danish football teams and this represents potential economic growth for all sectors of the community. We have a variety of craft markets overflowing with talent and we have to ensure that the local community, from which this talent originates, also benefits from the 2010 festivities.”

Van Eck explained that there are certain emblems, images and words associated with the tournament that are owned by FIFA. “These may not be used or integrated into any product,“ said Van Eck. “The penalties for the unauthorised use of such material could be quite severe. This workshop educated the attendees on what logos, titles, trademarks, words and symbols are off limits. In this way we hope to help our crafters create pieces that they can exhibit and sell during the tournament without contravening any regulations.”

Van Eck concluded by emphasising Knysna Tourism’s commitment to local economic development. “We realise that our local community is an important contributor to everything that makes Knysna a popular tourist destination. In recognition of this fact, our development team works very hard to ensure that these talented artists are provided with every opportunity to excel in their craft.

The next workshop is in early February and will focus on creativity development. CCDI is also helping Knysna Tourism to research the French and Danish markets to find out what design elements will appeal most to visitors from these countries.”

Contact Information:
Knysna Tourism
www.visitknysna.co.za
tel: 044 382 5510
fax: 044 382 1464
mobile: 083 299 7777
email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Knysna PR
Tel (044) 382 5510
Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.