The US destination marketing organisation hosted a record-breaking 4,200-plus business meetings at its biggest ever Brand USA Travel Week UK & Europe last week.
More than 600 travel industry delegates from more than 20 countries attended the event, which returned to London after being held in Frankfurt, Germany, last year.
The annual event (October 16-19) was held at London’s County Hall, with more than 170 UK and European buyer delegates and more than 140 US exhibitor organisations.
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Evening events included a private takeover at The National Gallery, a night-time cruise along the Thames, and entertainment from the best Broadway musicals in London’s West End theatres.
Alongside Travel Week, Brand USA’s Media Forum, now in its second year, welcomed 65 British and European media and nearly 50 US PR representatives, facilitating more than 1,000 one-to-one meetings to discuss what’s new across the destination.
The CEO Summit, in its third year, saw a delegation of 48 US industry and marketing leaders discuss industry insights, trends and forecasts at roundtables, keynote updates and strategy sessions.
Other panels explored sustainable tourism, aviation industry and the importance of authenticity and diversity.
Chris Thompson, Brand USA president and chief executive, said: “Each and every year, Brand USA Travel Week UK & Europe continues to forge new ground and break records for the number and quality of international delegates who gather to explore creative, research-driven ways to inspire travel to the US.
“Right now, we are close to overall connectivity volume we saw in 2019, beating the forecasts with leisure travellers returning at speed.
“Travel Week provides the opportunity and momentum to unite the industry, reconnect with peers, and strengthen business relationships as we continue to drive this visitation to the US and share our nation’s stories.”
Brand USA Travel Week UK & Europe will return to London next year (October 21-24, 2024).
Pictured: US Partner CEO delegation at Brand USA Travel Week Europe 2023 in London.