Making it a night to remember

Making it a night to remember

The cream of the travel industry look forward to the Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association annual awards event next month

THE SCOTTISH Passenger Agents’ Association has rarely been out of the news recently – showing that the world’s oldest travel trade association still has lots of sway in the industry.

Perhaps the most noticeable subject the SPAAhas been speaking out on recently is over Thomson and Airtours’ decision to put direct telephone numbers in brochures.

The SPAAannual awards evening will also cause a stir in the industry. This prestigious occasion will be attended by the cream of the trade north of the border, along with travel partners from around the UK.

It has been quite a year for the world’s oldest travel trade organisation, set up in 1921.

SPAA has become increasingly vocal this year, spearheading a national crusade against the introduction of direct-booking information in brochures.

Earlier this month, it lambasted ABTA for failing to clamp down on operators who continue the practice.

Not bad for an organisation fast approaching its 80th year.

Bell Travel managing director Val Foylan, the first woman to be elected to the SPAA’s presidency, said: “We have three major social events a year but this encapsulates them all.”

Once again the event will be held at the Glasgow Hilton on November 9.

“Due to high demand, we had considered staging a bigger event at a larger venue, but decided it was best to keep the numbers limited. It will be a night to remember.”

Seventeen awards will be given on the night, including travel agency of the year and best tour operator.

The accolades are always fiercely contested, including the Ronald Sibbald agent trainee award, which recognises the best young person in the business.

A cocktail reception will precede the evening’s events, rounded off by music and dance.

&#42 For more information about the SPAA awards, telephone 01475 639924.

Glasgow Hilton: host to the SPAA’s social event of the year