An initiative to provide support and resources to small and medium enterprises in the global travel sector has been unveiled by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
The ‘Together in Travel’ platform is designed to provide SMEs with the tools and resources they need to accelerate business growth and ensure their voices are heard on a worldwide scale.
Subscribers will have access to content, networking opportunities and educational programmes via a dynamic and free-to-subscribe platform,
Additional paid subscriber options, offering enhanced features and benefits to further support SMEs, will be introduced next year.
The global tourism body is projecting a record-breaking year for the sector in 2024, with its global economic contribution set to reach $11.1 trillion.
Some data suggests up to 80% of the sector comprises SMEs, highlighting the growing need for a structured support system that can optimise productivity and impact, according too the WTTC.
WTTC president and chief executive Julia Simpson, speaking at the organisation’s 24th global summit in Perth, Australia, said: “SMEs are a cornerstone of travel and tourism with millions of small enterprises providing services to customers, creating innovative start-ups and providing local knowledge to larger partners.
“For the first time ever, these SMEs can join a community to share ideas and tools to strengthen their businesses.”
Matthew Upchurch, WTTC vice chair of membership and chief executive of the Virtuoso network, aded: “The launch of the ‘Together in Travel’ community marks a significant milestone for WTTC in its mission to advocate for the interests of SMEs within the travel industry and drive positive change through meaningful engagement and support.
“As the travel sector continues to navigate the challenges brought about by the global pandemic, initiatives like this are essential in building a more resilient and sustainable future for all stakeholders involved.”
Ryan Mossny, co-founder of Perth-based Matagarup Zip+Climb, said: “As a small business, accessing the vital resources and industry connections needed to thrive in the travel sector can be challenging.
“WTTC’s new initiative has come at a perfect time; through tailored support, we will be able to directly tackle our problem areas head-on, allowing us not only to survive but to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.”