ABTA is to hold its first UK holiday market conference on November 13 in Birmingham.
The event will focus on what is driving the trend for staycations, where the UK holiday market is growing, and how to capitalise on the growth in inbound tourism.
Speakers will share practical information on how to reach, market and sell UK holidays, including the role of social media and trade engagement.
There will also be an update on key legislation affecting UK holidays, including improvements to the visa service, cutting red tape, accessibility requirements and the new Package Travel Regulations.
Speakers include:
- Giles Smith, deputy director for tourism, heritage and cultural diplomacy, DCMS
- Carol Dray, commercial director, Visit Britain
- Raymond Veal, CEO, Tourism for All UK
- Richard Calvert, CEO, Shearings
- Nick Brooks-Sykes, vice-chairman, Tourism Alliance and director of tourism, Marketing Manchester
- Bernard Donoghue, director, Association of Leading Visitor Attractions
- Mark McVay, chairman, UKInbound
- Jane Atkins, managing director, Shearings Holidays and chair, UKTLG
- Jon Bezalel, digital strategist, Accord
- Deirdre Wells, chief executive, Visit Kent
- Tony Sophoclides, strategic affairs director, UK Hospitality
- Luke Petherbridge, senior public affairs manager, ABTA
The venue, as yet to be confirmed, will be in central Birmingham.
