Most UK agents are ready to attend travel trade events such as roadshows, according to a Tipto online survey.
The travel supplier marketing body, recently saved from potential closure, had 251 respondents to its social media poll, which was sent out to gauge agent sentiment ahead of the proposed end of lockdown restrictions on June 21.
The survey showed 88% of agents would feel comfortable about attending small-scale travel trade events, such as roadshows, training or networking, after June 21. Only 2% did not want to attend, while 10% were undecided.
Asked about attending larger scale events, such as a conference, awards ceremony, ball or exhibition, 65% of agents said they would feel comfortable attending these, while 12% said they would not be comfortable and 23% were currently undecided.
In terms of safety measures that agents would like to see in place at events, social distancing came top of the list followed by temperature checks and wearing masks. Vaccine passports and testing came further down agents’ priority list.
Comments by agents surveyed included: “Anything that helps us (and suppliers) get going again safely is a good thing” while another said: “I think a lot of us feel a little lost and detached as we have not been working for long periods of time.”
Government guidelines currently say events can take place as normal from June 21. Tipto is planning to hold events in July and August, potentially four roadshows and one virtual event, but in a classroom-style rather than speed dating to ensure the safety and comfort of attendees. It hopes to start a fresh round of its annual Face 2 Face roadshows from September 2021.
Lorna Willis-Edwards, who runs Spirit Marketing & Events, Tipto’s management company, said: “The events industry, along with travel, has been one of the worst affected during the pandemic with little to no support from the government.
“We have to be cautious as we all know how quickly things can change. While we are planning events this summer, we are also planning for any restrictions put in place but we absolutely can’t wait to get out there and meet our industry ‘Face 2 Face’ once again!”