The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust (Abtot) has introduced an initiative to reward and recognise members who have been part of the association for 10 years and 25 years.
The first long-standing member award was presented by Samantha Bradbury, Abtot membership director, to Simon King, director at Inside Travel Group, to mark the fact the operator has been a member for more than 10 years.
Earlier this year, during Abtot’s 30th birthday celebrations, the association acknowledged 11 members which have been part of the association for more than 25 years, and 58 which have been members for over a decade.
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As a token of appreciation, the new initiative to reward and recognise long-standing membership will give members a special certificate.
This can be displayed in their offices alongside their Abtot Membership Certificate as proof of compliance with the PTRs through their membership of ABTOT, an approved Department for Business and Trade body.
Abtot has created special logos to signify these members’ “steadfast commitment and expertise” in the industry.
“These logos are not merely badges; they are symbols of trust, expertise and success,” said the association.
“The Abtot 10- and 25-year member logos will serve as eye-catching assets for members to display on their websites and social media profiles.
“These logos will enable Abtot Members to distinguish themselves, opening doors to enhanced business opportunities while instilling confidence in their customers.
“Most importantly, however, they convey Abtot’s heartfelt gratitude for the enduring partnerships that have helped shape the association into what it is today.
“In the ever-evolving landscape of the travel and tourism industry, building trust and nurturing long-lasting relationships are paramount.”
Richard Watson, Abtot managing director, said: “We are delighted to be celebrating and rewarding members who have remained loyal to Abtot for a decade and more.
“This is a remarkable achievement for these members and is a testament to the trust they have placed in Abtot’s commitment to the travel industry.”
Overall, Abtot has more than 300 members and operates a regulated financial protection bonded scheme for travel organisers who need to comply with UK travel regulations.