Seven backpacking operators have taken the first step in forming a joint global marketing organisation.
The Backpacker Transport Operators Network was launched on the opening day of the World Youth & Student Travel Conference (WYSTC) taking place in Beijing this week. 


The new initiative has been formed by Stray Asia, Stray New Zealand, Oz Experience, Dragon Bus China, Bamba Bus Latin America, Moose Travellers Network Canada and Falafel Bus Middle East.
The group is expected to grow to approximately 10 or 12 organisations over the next few months. 


“Ensuring that all members operate to the highest possible standards that reflects positively on each other’s business is a key component to the success of this organisation,†said Oz Experience director, Greg Zammit. 


The founding members of the Backpacker Transport Operators Network will work toward sharing their databases of customers to enable joint marketing efforts and a referral programme.
WYSTC, the annual conference for the global youth and educational travel industry, is taking place this week at the China World Hotel in Beijing.
