The Coach Tourism Association’s (CTA) Spring Networking event in Oxford on 18-20 May attracted more than 100 coach tour operators, wholesalers, and industry suppliers.
Using Holiday Inn Oxford as a base, the three days included a seminar programme, familiarisation trips and a supplier showcase.
The familiarisation trips to Oxford Castle and Prison, Bodleian Library and Blenheim Palace were led by blue badge guide Roger Bailey, with transport supplied by Johnsons Coaches.
Meanwhile, hoteliers, attractions, destinations, insurance providers, and ferry operators took the opportunity to engage with operators and wholesalers at the supplier showcase.
The seminar included an update from Zemo Partnership Programme Manager Dan Hayes on the path towards zero-emissions for coaches and a guide to how AI can be used in the trade from expert Manu Kastia from Digital Dialog.
“Fam trips are an important part of CTA events, showing at first-hand what a coach tour customer will experience, and enabling operators to uncover behind the scenes details, from accessibility through to group dining,” says CTA Chair, Robert Shaw. “This weekend’s fam trips were particularly useful to help operators and wholesalers develop product, along with the supplier showcase. We’ve learnt that a number of deals were made as a result.
“Feedback on the seminars was extremely positive, with delegates learning practical guidance to help improve business operations for the coach tourism market of today and in future.”
Entertainment was provided by new CTA member Tyrolean Evening Show from Innsbruck, who gave a traditional Tyrolean folk music and dance show.
The event also included a presentation from charity Something To Look Forward To, which provides provides free gifts and experiences for people financially affected by cancer.
CTA Winter Networking, will take place in Blackpool on 24-25 November, with booking available soon on the website. CTA will also organise a members’ gathering on 5 November for the opening morning of World Travel Market.
