The Advantage Travel Partnership and AITO, The Specialist Travel Association, have this week proactively engaged with HM Treasury over the future of the outbound travel sector, to ensure their members receive proper representation in government decision-making.
This focused on how the industry was badly affected during the pandemic, and while the situation is improving, the specific challenges faced by the outbound sector are still largely unrecognised. The UK has a world-leading travel industry, which plays a critical part in the country’s economic makeup and serves as a vehicle for a truly global Britain.
Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of The Advantage Travel Partnership, said: “We are all clearly delighted that international travel is getting back to normal, but feel it is critical that the government recognises the unique difficulties still being faced by the UK outbound travel sector in the wake of the pandemic. By engaging with HM Treasury, our aim is to bring to light the situation that exists within our sector and work closely with the government to find measures that will secure the future of an industry that provides such a valuable contribution to the UK economy.
“The role of travel agents and tour operators, and the value they add to consumers, has never been so great. Since the pandemic, consumers are looking for greater protection, more security and better customer service. Coupled with the current economic climate, getting the best value for money has never been more important and as consumers look to make more informed choices, a thriving outbound travel sector is crucial.
“At such a critical point for the industry, as the recovery from the pandemic continues, it is vital that there is direct recognition from the government that the outbound travel sector is facing unique challenges as it seeks to secure its future and continue to provide thousands of jobs and billions of pounds in contributions to the UK economy.”
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