The UK is missing out on the boom in retail tourism, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) says.
It published the Global Retail Tourism Trends and Insights report, and says other countries are reaping an economic boost.
The sector remains underserved by the UK Government, WTTC says.
In 2019 retail tourism represented $178 billion to the global economy.
The UK retail sector is not witnessing the same levels of growth enjoyed by France, the U.S. and Italy, in part due to the so-called tourist tax.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said “Retail tourism is not about souvenir shopping; it is an economic powerhouse, a key driver of job creation.”
The UK Government must acknowledge the valuable role of retail tourism in shaping the future.”
“The Chinese visitor is choosing France and Italy over the UK. We need leadership that invests in growth now.”
