The Coach Tourism Association (CTA) reports strong interest already in its winter networking event, which will be held between Saturday 23 and Monday 25 November in Blackpool.
Over 70 delegates have already registered and CTA says that further places remain available. The gathering is open to all members of the Association, with non-members welcome to join in order to attend.
An extended programme will give coach operators and wholesalers additional support for their trip and tour developers. It will also give coach tourism professionals an improved opportunity to network with suppliers.
Delegates will stay at the Imperial Hotel. The opening Saturday is to include a classic trip and chance to visit the Tower Ballroom to enjoy afternoon tea courtesy of Merlin Entertainments. On Saturday afternoon or Sunday, those in attendance can also visit the same supplier’s Madame Tussauds, along with Sealife Blackpool and the High Jinx circus.
On the Sunday, operator Bretherton’s Gold Line Tours will convey guests to the National Trust’s Rufford Old Hall near Ormskirk and then for lunch at the Offshore Hotel in Lytham St Annes.
The group will then head back to experience Visit Blackpool’s Christmas by the Sea. It involves the Blackpool Tower Festival Headland being transformed into a festive village complete with outdoor skating rink, light installations, and fairground rides.
On the Sunday evening, delegates will take part in a reception and networking dinner, including a showtime with West End star Nicholas Duncan sponsored by CN Live Productions, and after dinner drinks courtesy of Irish Ferries.
Monday morning will see a supplier showcase, giving coach operators, wholesalers and suppliers a more formal theatre in which to discuss new trips, tours, and services to the coach tourism sector. Optional Friday evening accommodation on 22 November is also available to guests, CTA says.
Speaking about the event, CTA Chair Robert Shaw says: “This year’s CTA winter networking is offering a full day of additional business development opportunities to help coach operators, wholesalers and suppliers to increase their commerce.
“With activities running over three days, this will give delegates time to take in the new and classic attractions that Blackpool can provide coach groups, alongside the opportunity to network with industry members old and new.”
