TGCSA Celebrates 25 years of excellence at the 2025 annual assessor conference

TThe Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) proudly marks its 25th anniversary at the 2025 Annual Assessor Conference, convening accredited assessors from across the country to uphold and enhance South Africa’s global standards in tourism quality assurance.

Since its establishment a quarter of a century ago, TGCSA has been instrumental in elevating the quality and competitiveness of South Africa’s accommodation and conferencing sectors. The star grading system, recognised both locally and internationally, continues to set a benchmark for excellence, consistency, and credible service.

This year’s conference held at the 4-star graded Wild Coast Sun in the Eastern Cape, brought together key stakeholders and assessors to discuss the refinement of grading criteria, provide essential refresher training and share the latest research and data to improve assessment quality and service delivery. A major theme is Universal Accessibility, ensuring South African tourism is inclusive and accessible to all, including people with living with disabilities and the elderly.

Bronwen Auret, Chief Quality Assurance officer, Tourism Grading Counsel added: “As the frontline custodians of South Africa’s tourism quality standards, our assessors play an indispensable role in shaping unforgettable experiences for travelers. Their expert evaluations ensure that every graded establishment meets rigorous, globally benchmarked criteria, reflecting the highest levels of service and hospitality. Our unwavering commitment to Universal Accessibility also demonstrates our dedication to creating an inclusive tourism landscape—where everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the rich diversity and warmth of South Africa. Together, these efforts reinforce our pledge to excellence and position South Africa as a world-class, accessible travel destination.

Rosemarie van Staden, Chairperson of the National Accommodation Association (NAA-SA), stated: “The 25-year milestone marks not only TGCSA’s enduring commitment to quality and service in accommodation but also celebrates NAA-SA’s own 25-year journey. Our members fully support the rigorous standards and assessor training that ensure South Africa’s hospitality shines on the global stage, especially as we continue to embrace inclusivity and universal accessibility.”

Quality assured products are a critical component of bidding for the MICE sector. Glenton de Kock, CEO of The Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI), emphasized that we should not aim to just meet standards, but set them for our destination offering. “As we move beyond mere compliance, we create a distinct market advantage for South Africa. While quality is non-negotiable, it is also a promise that forms an integral part of the experience for delegates.” He further highlighted the growing importance of assessors in this process: “The role of assessors is ever more critical as the conference and events sector grows. TGCSA’s grading and quality assurance enhance confidence for international and domestic planners alike, ensuring South Africa

remains competitive and a preferred choice for world-class events.” As South Africa’s tourism industry continues to evolve, the TGCSA remains committed to upholding high standards to provide travelers with world-class experiences and to promote sustainable growth and development in the sector.

The conference also focuses on empowering assessors to better market the official TGCSA quality assurance system, supporting the growth and success of graded establishments nationwide. This collaboration is vital for maintaining South Africa’s reputation as a top-quality travel destination on the global stage.

For more information about TGCSA and to learn more about grading, visit the TGCSA website www.tourismgrading.co.za

About TGCSA:

The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa is the official quality assurance body for the South African tourism industry. Established in 2000, TGCSA sets and maintains internationally- recognised grading standards for accommodation and conferencing establishments, promoting excellence, competitiveness, and sustainable tourism.

For more enquiries contact:

Thandiwe Mathibela at South African Tourism

GM: Global PR, Communications and Stakeholder Relations Email: thandiwe@southafrica.net or mediaq@southafrica.net

___________________________________________________________________________________