Britain's Biggest Travel Trade Mission Heads Down Under

VisitBritain, the UK's national tourism agency, is set to host its first travel trade mission to Australia in nearly a decade, led by chairman Nick de Bois, from 9 to 13 September 2024. This week-long roadshow, traversing Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, will feature a diverse range of British suppliers, showcasing the best of the UK beyond London.

The mission offers a unique opportunity for Australian travel buyers and agents to connect with leading British tourism providers, gaining insight into the latest products and innovations the UK's tourism industry has to offer. Throughout the five-day event, attendees can engage in one-on-one business appointments during the day and participate in dedicated travel agent training and networking sessions in the evening.

"I am delighted to be leading VisitBritain's first travel trade mission to Australia in nearly a decade," enthused de Bois CBE. "As the UK's fourth most valuable visitor market and following record-breaking results in 2023, this mission provides a timely opportunity for British travel suppliers and destinations to connect with top Australian buyers and explore new business opportunities."

"This mission marks my first visit to Australia as Chairman," he continued, "and I am looking forward to connecting with the Australian travel trade and hearing first-hand how we can continue to support the industry, converting increasing demand into bookings and inspiring travellers to explore more of Britain year-round."

A broad spectrum of British suppliers, many making their Australian debut, will be present, including hotels, visitor attractions, destination management companies, and tour and sightseeing operators. From the majestic Alnwick Castle in England's northeast and Liverpool Football Club Experiences to the iconic Historic Royal Palaces and ABBA Voyage in London, the Australian travel trade industry will be exposed to a wide range of offerings from across the nation's regions.

VisitBritain's latest estimates predict that Australians will spend a record £1.7 billion (AU$3.3 billion) on their trips to the UK this year. The number of Australian visits to the UK has also been reaching historic highs, with a record 1.2 million visits in 2023, a 10 per cent increase on 2019.

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Schedule for Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane:

Monday, 9 September 2024 | Sydney

Location: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

9am-2pm: Product manager workshops (1:1 buyer appointments)

Tuesday, 10 September 2024 | Sydney

Location: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

9am-2pm: Product manager workshops (1:1 buyer appointments)

5:30pm-1am: Travel agent & advisors training

Wednesday, 11 September 2024 | Melbourne

Location: W Melbourne

12pm-5pm: Product manager workshops (1:1 buyer appointments)

6pm-10pm: Travel agent & advisors training

Thursday, 12 September 2024 | Brisbane

Location: Hilton Brisbane

5:30pm-10pm: Travel agent & advisors training

Friday, 13 September 2024 | Brisbane

Location: Hilton Brisbane

9am-2pm: Product manager workshops (1:1 buyer appointments)

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Registration Details:

For travel buyers, click [HERE](insert link).

For travel agents, click [HERE](insert link).