Dawning of a new era? Guest comment by WTM group exhibition director Fiona Jeffery

There’s a discernible spring in the ‘step’ of the industry this year – a renewed confidence that has captured the hearts of virtually everyone who works in and cares about what happens to the travel and tourism industry.

Amid continuing reports of good performances across all markets in 2004, following three very challenging and, let’s face it, difficult years for many, World Travel Market is looking to hit record figures this year as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.

There are 5,038 exhibitors covering 193 countries – 70 being new exhibitors including Uzbekistan, Qatar Airways, Mali, Gabon, Lesotho, Georgia State Department of Tourism and Italy’s Domina Hotels and Resorts.

Throughout the past 25 years, WTM has always listened and, more importantly, responded to the views of both exhibitors and visitors providing new opportunities to negotiate and conduct business, network and learn new skills and trends. And this year is certainly no exception.

The online diary means that thousands of appointments will have been pre-booked by visitors and the very latest, often controversial issues, covering every aspect and sector are front of mind with a packed programme of debates, presentations and seminars.

This includes the launch of WTM’s specially commissioned Global Travel Report at the Forecast Forum, presenting up-to-the-minute findings on the current state of the industry worldwide.

There are fresh initiatives too, such as the outstanding and ambitious new Wise Up! on Thursday targeted at travel agents, tour operator reservations staff and call centre personnel. This training day includes Destination Briefings and Destination Spotlights offering training and professional development which will contribute genuine, constructive and practical ways of expanding careers and businesses.

Making Meetings Pay is the theme of our Meetings, Conference and Incentive focus on Tuesday, bringing to life the real meaning of that latest buzz word Return on Investment (ROI). In addition to a debate and seminars, six of the leading meetings industry associations have teamed up to create the new UK Meetings Village.

On Wednesday we launch our new Responsible Tourism Day, the highlight of which is the presentation of the first ever Responsible Tourism Awards and a Question Time chaired by John Stapleton. Additionally that day, the latest business sensation Sahar Hashemi, founder of Coffee Republic, will let you into her secrets at the Business Lecture, sponsored by KPMG.

There is a real sense of optimism within the industry and that will be on show in abundance at this year’s WTM.