Next month sees the group industry reunite as the British Tourism & Travel Show returns to the NEC Birmingham from March 22-23 – register for free now at tourismshow.co.uk

Packed with quality group experiences from more than 250 exhibitors, there’s no better place to find inspiration for your upcoming tours. With lots of exciting events happening around the UK this year – from His Majesty the King’s Coronation in May to the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool, and major sporting events – there's great optimism for the domestic tourism industry. In fact, a survey on behalf of audit, tax and consulting firm RSM UK* found that UK consumers are continuing to book staycations in 2023 despite the cost of living rising and the opening of international travel. More than ever, people are seeing the appeal of long or short breaks closer to home. So the demand for UK and Ireland holidays is expected to continue throughout 2023 and beyond.

All this means there’s no better time to plan UK and Ireland itineraries, and the BTTS returns to the NEC Birmingham next month with everything group travel organisers need to plan trips and excursions. Event Manager Lloyd Jones says: “The show is a great opportunity for the whole industry to get together to find out what’s new, to be inspired by varied exhibitors geared for groups, and to learn the latest trends driving the market. Packed with inspirational travel ideas and insights, BTTS equips group travel professionals with what they need to continue delivering a quality visitor experience.”

A wealth of experiences

The British Tourism & Travel Show will feature over 250 exhibitors, from visitor attractions and popular destinations to group-friendly accommodation providers and innovative suppliers. What’s more, there are 50 new exhibitors confirmed this year, which means even more exciting content and fresh ideas to inspire UK and Ireland excursions. Exhibitors will collectively showcase a wealth of group-friendly experiences from within the British Isles. Expect to see historical landmarks, theatre shows, a variety of accommodation options and so much more.

Returning favourites at the show include Albatross Travel, Best Western Hotels, Chatsworth, Devon’s Top Attractions, Eurotunnel, The Beatles Story, The Royal Mint Experience, and The World of James Herriot. Then there are the first-time exhibitors to discover, including Bodmin Jail, Crieff Hydro Hotels, Destination Bristol, Drayton Manor Park, Holkham, InterChoice Holidays, National Horseracing Museum, Outdoor Active, Royal Airforce Museum, West Midlands Growth Company. Find the full list of exhibitors at tourismshow.co.uk.

Unmissable opportunities

Across the two-day event, visitors will get ample networking opportunities and the chance to reconnect with other travel trade professionals. The show’s popular Food and Drink Trail will also return, allowing those all-important taste tests before introducing them to groups. Another huge draw for visitors is the show’s free Keynote line-up. Travel trade experts and other industry leaders will bring fresh insights to a programme of seminars, covering everything from trends, tips and technology to research and opportunities facing the travel trade today. Confirmed speakers include Kate Mavor, CEO of English Heritage, Andy Headington from digital tourism marketing agency Adido, and a presentation on emerging market trends from Euromonitor. More names will be announced in the coming weeks.

Go home inspired

The show is a must-visit for group travel organisers and for those keen to connect with like-minded professionals. There has never been a better time to show off the best of the UK and Ireland, and with a trip to the British Tourism & Travel Show, visitors are bound to go home inspired by new ideas for their next group trips.

* https://www.business-money.com/announcements/demand-for-staycations-in-2023-will-give-uk-economy-a-welcome-boost/