The Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) has revealed the line-up for its first joint conference in Vilnius, Lithuania on June 16-19.
The Aito conference has been combined with the Aito Specialist Travel Agents’ conference to mark their respective 35th and 15th anniversaries.
Speakers include Andrew Cohen and David Clover from the Civil Aviation Authority, who will discuss the consequences of the new Atol Certificate and flight-plus.
Former director of STA Travel Dick Porte and Anthony Skitt, the new managing director of Classic Cottages, will also share their experiences.
Other speakers lined up are former chief executive of Hoseasons Richard Carrick, head of corporate social responsibility at Costa Coffee Foundation Piers Blake and Alastair Donnelly of InsideJapan Tours.
Michael Dupont from The Cruise Portfolio will look at what’s in store for the rapidly expanding cruise industry, including his thoughts on Complete Cruise Solution’s decision to reduce commission to 5%.
Oliver Broad, Aito Agents’ chairman, said: “We’re excited to have so many fantastic speakers on board for our first-ever joint overseas conference, all covering important topics that genuinely matter to our delegates and the travel industry as a whole.
“Many members of Aito and Aito Agents are set to attend and we look forward to welcoming them to Vilnius. We’d encourage all of those who haven’t yet booked their place to do so now.”
Derek Moore, Aito chairman, said: “Aito and Aito Agents work so well together, thanks to regular product training sessions plus the Closer Ties agreement and All Stars incentive scheme, which has reported a big sales rise this year compared with last year.
“It’s only fitting, therefore, that we bring the two organisations together for our first joint conference, especially with two anniversaries to celebrate.”