$76.5 Billion Gay and Lesbian Travel Market Soars

New Mintel Report Highlights Skyrocketing Industry Opportunities in Growing SegmentChicago (May 15, 2006)- With more than $76.5 billion in expenditures, the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) segment is a booming travel market. Predicted to increase by more than $20 billion over the next five years, the GLBT market provides strong opportunities for companies to capture a new audience.“The GLBT community has a greater willingness to spend their dollars on travel than most mainstream consumers,” said Chris Haack, analyst for Mintel. “There is a cultural affinity that tends to insulate it from the shocks that affect the general traveler. Whether communicating with GLBT singles, couples or families, industry players simply need to be aware of each group’s specific needs.”