Protected Trust Services joins Future Travel Coalition

The Future Travel Coalition (FTC) has welcomed Protected Trust Services (PTS) as its 16th member, arguing the move will boost the “credibility” of its lobbying efforts.

The coalition, which counts trade bodies, associations and consortia among its members, aims to provide a united voice on behalf of the travel industry when working with the government and other decision-makers.

Luke Petherbridge, director of public affairs at Abta, said: “Protected Trust Services and its members are a very welcome addition to the Future Travel Coalition.

“Since its inception, the intention of the coalition was to give a voice to the widest possible range of travel industry sectors so that we speak with a united, respected voice.

“PTS represents an important section of the industry which will further increase FTC’s credibility in its lobbying work.”

Recent lobbying activity by the FTC includes a letter sent to prime minister Andy Burnham setting out the industry’s priorities. The coalition also surveyed members about the Middle East conflict and the EU’s Entry/Exit System.

PTS managing director Emma Collis said: “We’re delighted to be joining the Future Travel Coalition and adding the voice of PTS and our members to its important work.

“The travel industry is at its strongest when we work together, particularly when it comes to representing the challenges and opportunities facing travel businesses.

“PTS has always been focused on supporting independent travel businesses, and joining the FTC gives us another valuable opportunity to make sure their views are heard and represented.

“We’re looking forward to working alongside the other members of the coalition and playing an active role in helping shape a stronger future for the travel industry.”

The FTC members are: Abta, Aito, the Advantage Travel Partnership, the African Travel & Tourism Association (Atta), the Association of Northern Ireland Travel Agents, the Association of Touring and Adventure Suppliers (Atas), the European Tour Operators Association (Etoa), the Business Travel Association (BTA), Clia, the Institute of Travel and Tourism, the Latin American Travel Association (Lata), PTS, the Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association (SPAA), Seasonal Businesses in Travel (SBIT), The Travel Network Group and UKinbound.