WTTC Unveils ‘Together in Travel’ to Empower SMEs in the Travel and Tourism Sector
The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) introduced its ‘Together in Travel’ initiative during the 2024 Global Summit in Perth, Western Australia. This innovative programme is aimed at offering vital support and resources to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within the global travel and tourism industry.
The ‘Together in Travel’ platform is crafted to equip SMEs with the necessary tools and guidance to accelerate business growth, ensuring their voices are amplified on a global stage.
Speaking at the global tourism body’s 24th Global Summit in Perth, Western Australia, Julia Simpson, President and CEO, WTTC, said, “SMEs are a cornerstone of Travel and Tourism with millions of small enterprises providing services to customers, creating innovative start-ups and providing local knowledge to larger partners.”
Subscribers to this dynamic, free-to-join platform will gain access to a vast array of content, networking opportunities and educational programmes.
In the coming year, additional paid subscription options will be introduced, providing enhanced features and benefits designed to further aid SMEs on their path to success. For the first time, these enterprises can participate in a community where they can exchange ideas and resources to strengthen their businesses.
Matthew Upchurch, Vice Chair of Membership at WTTC and Chairman and CEO of Virtuoso, said, “The launch of the ‘Together in Travel’ community marks a significant milestone for WTTC in its mission to advocate for the interests of SMEs within the travel industry and drive positive change through meaningful engagement and support.”
The WTTC is forecasting a record-breaking year for travel and tourism in 2024, with the sector’s global economic contribution expected to reach an unprecedented USD 11.1 trillion.
SMEs are pivotal in fostering entrepreneurship and driving innovation within the industry. Many of today’s leading companies started as ideas around the kitchen table. It is estimated that up to 80 per cent of the sector is made up of SMEs, underscoring the importance of structured support to enhance productivity and impact.
