For CRTA, the GNEX conferences are a must-attend event, a cornerstone of our industry engagement, where the industry’s top executives gather to connect, strategize, and foster innovation. With three annual conferences—held in Mexico, Canada, and this, the flagship event, GNEX has been a driving force in shaping the future of vacation ownership.

This year marked a major milestone: 15 years of GNEX bringing the industry together. And what better place to celebrate than Las Vegas? Delegates from across Canada, the USA, and Mexico convened to engage in what proved to be one of the most dynamic and impactful conferences I have had the privilege of attending.

A Perfect Blend of Business & Networking

The event kicked off in style with the traditional golf tournament at Bear’s Best on Monday—a perfect setting for networking before diving into the heart of the conference. From there, we launched into a series of interactive discussions covering the state of the industry. These discussions addressed both opportunities and challenges in the current market, while maintaining a positive outlook despite the uncertainties surrounding political and economic factors.

The vacation club model continues to demonstrate its resilience, appealing to younger demographics seeking flexibility over traditional long-term timeshares. Sales and marketing strategies are adapting to changing consumer preferences, with technology increasingly playing a pivotal role in shaping our interactions with buyers.

Standout Sessions & Thought Leadership

The speaker lineup was exceptional, featuring renowned industry experts.

• Shawn Brydge, President of Wellington Financial, delivered a compelling session on tariffs and trade relations between Mexico, Canada, and the United States. His insightful analysis illuminated the potential impact of shifting policies on the industry, ensuring that the audience remained engaged with practical real-world insights.
• Dan Gingiss presented an enlightening talk on transcending artificial intelligence to create exceptional customer experiences. His presentation challenged conventional thinking about how we interact with consumers in the vacation and timeshare industry.
• Father Robert Spitzer’s session on Happiness and Dynamic Leadership left a profound impact to all attendees
• Sessions concluded with Jim Madrid's expertise on Mindset, a topic he has mastered over several decades.

The Power of the Boardroom

One of the most anticipated sessions at GNEX is always The Boardroom, where industry experts delve into pressing issues and emerging trends. I was honored to participate in this panel once again, engaging in discussions that ranged from:

• The current state of the industry
• AI-driven marketing & sales innovations
• How product design is adapting to modern consumers
• The potential impact of the U.S. administration on travel

These candid, high-level discussions continue to make GNEX a standout event for leaders looking to stay ahead of industry shifts.

A Toast to 15 Years

As the event concluded, it was evident that GNEX 2025 was a resounding success. The energy, collaboration, and forward-thinking discussions reinforced why this conference remains a vital platform for industry professionals.

I would like to personally congratulate Paul and Sharon Mattimoe on an extraordinary 15-year journey of bringing the best minds in the business together. Here's to the next chapter of GNEX! I look forward to seeing you at the next event.