Inspire Group revamps events calendar to make attendance ‘more accessible’

The theme and venue for the Inspire Group’s Independent Travel Associates (ITA) homeworking arm’s 2026 conference has been unveiled.

The event, under the title ‘Resilience & Vision’, will be held in Manchester on June 25.

The gathering “marks a renewed commitment to bringing the ITA community together more frequently on home soil, to celebrate the strength, adaptability and forward-thinking spirit of its team,” according to the company.

Inspire Group chief executive Lisa Henning confirmed a restructured events calendar designed to make attendance more accessible for its members, with an overseas event every 18 months and a UK-based conference every nine months.

She said: "This year’s theme for conference is Resilience & Vision, chosen to reflect the collective journey of ITA’s independent travel agent community, travel professionals who have navigated significant industry disruption, adapted to change and continued to deliver exceptional service to their clients. Conference 2026 is our opportunity to recognise that, and to look ahead together.”      

Manchester was chosen as the host city as a “fitting reflection” of the conference theme due to its industrial heritage, track record of reinvention and a reputation for community and creativity.

Henning added: “The strength of ITA is in its people, how they support each other, share knowledge and grow together.

“That’s what makes us different, and we’re building a community where independent agents don’t feel like they’re running their businesses alone.” 

The programme includes:

• Practical sessions on technology, business growth and smarter ways of working
• “Open, honest” discussions about the challenges and opportunities facing independent agents today
• Meaningful networking with peers who understand the realities of running an independent travel business
• A celebration of individual and collective achievement across the ITA community