We will evolve to meet 2026 challenges

It is hard to believe we are approaching the end of the year – 2025 really has flown by.

Following several years of almost uninterrupted growth and positivity, assessment of the past 12 months has required more nuance.

There has been continued momentum for many, with market leaders continuing to grow and smaller businesses identifying pockets of opportunity for expansion and success.

But there has also been a sense of caution throughout, with a volatile political and economic backdrop at home and overseas applying a constant handbrake on optimism.

It has been a year in which the travel trade landscape changed, with some established brands disappearing and others being consolidated, and we have also said goodbye to many much-loved individuals.

But the general feeling ahead of the peaks feels consistent with what has come before: business leaders are hopeful but nobody is getting carried away.

There is no doubt the travel trade will need to contend with unexpected challenges in 2026 and will also have to get to grips with changes ranging from the impact of AI to new rules on price-led advertising.

However, I remain confident of our industry’s ability to evolve and thrive, whatever is thrown its way.

The timing of the festive bank holidays means your next print edition will be with you in the first week of January but, as always, you can stay abreast of the latest news and analysis on travelweekly.co.uk and our social channels.

Until then, the team and I wish you a happy and peaceful Christmas and New Year.

Comment originally from Travel Weekly, December 12 edition