UK travel and tourism grew by over four times the rate of the wider UK economy in 2017, according to a new report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
WTTC’s latest research, in conjunction with Oxford Economics, shows the sector contribution to GDP grew by 6.2% in 2017, higher than the global average of 4.6% and more than four times faster than the UK’s economy as a whole.
The sector contributed £214 billion to GDP, 4 million jobs, and £29 billion in exports.
The WTTC said the figures emphasise the vital importance of safeguarding the interests of the sector post-Brexit.
Speaking at the launch of the report in New York, WTTC President & CEO Gloria Guevara said: "The strong growth in UK tourism is great news not just for the sector but for the country’s economy as a whole.
"However, this success cannot be taken for granted. While the weak pound is certainly improving competitiveness in the short term, and driving visitor arrivals and spending, there are significant challenges in the longer-term which will need to be addressed.
"Most critical will be ensuring the country has a workforce which is sufficient in number and skills to support this growth. Furthermore, as outlined by the Prime Minister in her speech earlier this year, the continued inclusion of the UK in EU aviation agreements will be vital if the UK is to continue to enjoy access to high spending EU markets and maintain affordable European travel for residents.
"Finally, as the UK and EU redefine border relationships, both sides must take into consideration the opportunities for safe, secure and seamless travel. Security is paramount, and investment in technologies such as biometrics offer not only increased security, but also a more efficient experience for travellers.
"If the UK is to benefit from the significant opportunities offered by tourism over the coming years, I would encourage the government to prioritise the needs of the sector. The prize is nearly £40billion in exports per year and around 400,000 new jobs – vital for the economic success of Britain outside the European Union."
WTTC director of research Rochelle Turner added: "Behind this growth lies a double benefit of the sustained weakness of sterling after the EU referendum in 2016. As a result, we have seen an increase of 6.7% in arrivals, the strongest growth in over a decade, boosted by increased price competitiveness and a 7.9% increase of spending by international tourist visitors."
