The British Tourism and Travel Show (BTTS), held at the NEC Birmingham on 22 and 23 September, delivered “a much needed back to business buzz” to the coach tourism sector, event organiser Diversified Communications UK has said.
BTTS brought together over 220 exhibitors representing attractions, destinations, hoteliers and other tourism industry suppliers to meet and reconnect with coach operators and group tour planners. It has been heralded by visiting travel trade buyers, with the seminar content delivered in tandem also garnering positive feedback.
Martin Slater of Greatdays Group Travel is among those to have applauded BTTS. He says: “After facing so many challenges over the last 18 months or so, it is fair to say that we were a little nervous at how one of the largest and most important exhibitions in our diary would go.
“We were amazed at how well attended BTTS was on both days. There was a real buzz of excitement and positivity among clients and suppliers, all keen to get back on track and work together to keep this industry going. Our stand was busy throughout each day with firm orders being placed and ideas discussed for future tours from both existing and potential clients.”
Adds Managing Director of All About Tours Martin Laver: “After the global issues of the past 18 months, it was great to see BTTS back again. Touching base with many new and old colleagues was worth the visit. We made new contacts for the future and left feeling even more positive about the season ahead.”
Diversified found that visitors travelled from across the UK to attend in “a clear indication of the importance of the show to helping the sector to build back after what has been, and still is, a challenging period,” says Event Director Helen Conway. “The positive energy that permeated the entire two days was clear evidence of the re-emergence of the sector.”
BTTS will return to the NEC on 22 and 23 March 2023.
