Special Report: Get set for action-packed fun at the Atas Conference

The event returns to Birmingham on Monday with its immersive trade fair, awards and gala dinner. Robin Searle reports

More than 200 agents are due to attend the second Association of Touring & Adventure Suppliers (Atas) Conference in Birmingham on Monday.

Building on the success of the inaugural event in 2017, the conference returns to the International Convention Centre and promises even more immersive training and learning opportunities.

Extended business sessions will focus on topics including product and marketing, and will feature speakers from a range of supplier and associate members. They will be followed by an immersive trade fair and a gala dinner including the second annual Atas Awards.

This year, the awards have been expanded to recognise agencies who work in all channels, as well as those who are new to the sector and a special award for the individual Atas Agent of the Year.

Paul Melinis, the new chairman of Atas and UK managing director of APT, said: “The second Atas Conference promises to be as action-packed, informative, educational and fun-filled as any one of our members’ tours.

“We want to give our valued industry partners a deeper insight into the innovation, product development, value and financial benefits that selling touring and adventure holidays can deliver, and we also intend to have fun in the process.”

Lucy Huxley, editor-in-chief of Travel Weekly Group and conference moderator, said: “The response to our first Atas Conference exceeded all our expectations, so we are determined to make this year’s event even bigger and better.

“The business sessions are designed to give agents real insight and practical advice about selling touring and adventure holidays, and they can then get a real taste of the sector in our trade fair.”

She added: “The growth of Atas in its first 18 months has been phenomenal, and this conference is set to be the next step in its evolution.”

Dominica is official destination partner of Atas Conference

Dominica has been revealed as the official destination partner of the 2018 Atas Conference.

The Caribbean destination joins technology partner Tigerbay and consumer media partner Global as a headline sponsor of the conference at Birmingham’s International Convention Centre.

Known as The Nature Island, Dominica is renowned for its incredible flora and fauna, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.