Aito’s Gibraltar event underlines value of cooperation

Two weeks ago, I had the pleasure of welcoming 50 of Aito’s Specialist Travel Agent and Specialist Tour Operator members to a dynamic and inspiring ‘famference’ in the heart of Gibraltar. 

 

Against the backdrop of the iconic rock, with a nice Mediterranean breeze, something even more powerful than the scenery unfolded – a renewed sense of connection, collaboration and opportunity among independent travel professionals.

 

As chair of Aito Specialist Travel Agents, I’ve long believed that our strength lies in our community. But it’s at events like these, where handshakes and hugs replace emails, and shared laughter and fun activities complement strategic conversations, that we truly see the value of Aito membership come to life.

 

In a digital world where Zoom fatigue is real and our inboxes overflow, in-person networking may seem like a luxury – but I believe it’s an absolute necessity, especially in our industry. Travel is built on relationships, with clients, suppliers, partners and peers. If we are to grow our businesses sustainably, adapt to the ever-changing landscape and offer authentic, tailored and bespoke experiences, we must invest in the most human element of our work – each other.

 

Our Gibraltar famference was a vivid example of just that. Over four days, we shared stories, challenges and strategies. We learnt from our fabulous hosts about the destination and, just as importantly, from each other. Members who had never met before discovered common goals. Partnerships were forged (and strengthened), services were exchanged, and many members left with fresh ideas and real leads to follow up on.

 

Lean in emotionally

It’s easy to view membership of a professional association as a passive benefit: a logo on your website/paperwork, access to some webinars or the occasional newsletter. But that’s just scratching the surface. The true value of Aito is unlocked when you lean in and show up – not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. You then start to see – and enjoy – the huge benefits of shared knowledge, mutual support and collective momentum.

 

Networking events are not just about who you meet. They are about showing who you are. They’re an opportunity to reinforce your brand, demonstrate your professionalism and become known as a reliable, engaged member of a larger ecosystem. People do business with those they trust – and trust is built face-to-face.

Collaborate and refer

For newer members, these events are a fast track to building credibility and visibility. For seasoned members, they’re a chance to give back, mentor and remain relevant. And for everyone, they’re a moment to pause from the daily grind, to reflect on where the industry is going and to gain the perspective needed to adapt and innovate.

 

What struck me most in Gibraltar was the generosity of spirit. Members openly shared insights, from marketing tips to supplier contacts. That spirit of collaboration ahead of competition is the hallmark of a thriving association, and it’s what we will continue to facilitate and encourage at Aito in the months ahead.

 

My message to Aito members is to make the most of your membership. Attend events – all of them. Reach out to fellow members between conferences. Collaborate. Refer. Recommend. Don’t wait for opportunities to knock – create them within this network. Aito membership is like a gym membership: if you pay but never attend, you won’t get fitter.  

 

Aito HQ, the panel and I will continue to plan wonderful opportunities for our members – and we’ll be back next year with another signature famference. I encourage every member who wasn’t with us in Gibraltar to make it a priority. Growth doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens when you surround yourself with people who challenge you, support you and remind you why you started in the first place.

 

Together, we’re not just navigating the travel industry – we’re shaping its future. Let’s keep moving forward, together.