Pata plans training for 600 UK and Ireland agents

More than 600 travel agents across the UK and Ireland are being targeted for training by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (Pata) this year.

The organisation is kicking off trade activity with roadshows in Scotland, the north of England and Midlands as it steps up efforts to boost bookings to the region.

Each roadshow will follow the format of a speed-networking event where agents will meet with various suppliers from across the Pata region in 10-minute appointments.

Each evening will include food, drinks, networking and prizes up for grabs including luxury hotel stays.

Suppliers attending the roadshows include a mix of hotels and resorts, airlines, tourist boards and travel representatives.

Marketing and events manager Betsie Barr said: “Trade engagement continues to grow, and this year we’re set to make Pata’s training events larger and more engaging than ever.

“We love meeting travel agents and are excited to share all the new and exciting developments happening across the Pacific Asia region.

“Our expanded calendar of events will see us travel across the UK and Ireland, giving us the chance to connect with more agents than ever before through a packed training events schedule.

“Agents will also be able to meet a wide range of new suppliers from across the region, who will be joining us at our roadshows throughout the year.”

The first dates are:

March 9 - Citation Glasgow, 40 Wilson Street, Glasgow G1 1HD

March 10 - Corinthian Suite at Doubletree by Hilton Liverpool, 6 Sir Thomas St, Liverpool L1 6BR

March 11 – Revolucion de Cuba, Leeds LS1 6DT 

March 12 - Manahatta Temple Street, 10 Temple St, Birmingham B2 5BN