WTTC confirms six cities in running for new base

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is considering six cities in five countries for its new base after deciding to quit London to cut costs.

The cities under consideration are Barcelona, Dubai, Geneva, Madrid, Milan and Paris.

The WTTC confirmed today (Monday) that Dubai, France, Italy, Spain and Switzerland have each shown “strong and proactive interest” in hosting the organisation’s new headquarters. 

The five countries have outlined the major benefits, highlighting opportunities to drive sustainable growth, create stronger global advocacy and reinforce WTTC’s leadership in the international travel and tourism industry. 

“Reduced costs will help WTTC to focus on passing greater benefits through to members worldwide,” a statement said.

A new location “would reduce costs, attract global talent, and enhance WTTC’s ability to respond quickly to sector developments while strengthening partnerships across established and emerging markets worldwide”.

The respective governments have presented “high-level” incentives to support WTTC establishing a new office, including favourable business conditions, fiscal benefits, streamlined administrative frameworks, access to a global talent pool and fast-track visa arrangements.

A structured assessment process is being conducted, with all five countries actively considered. 

A final decision by the WTTC’s operating committee on the preferred location will be announced in the coming weeks. The organisation will provide further updates as the evaluation process progresses.

WTTC interim president and chief executive Gloria Guevara said: “We are highly encouraged by the strong interest shown by these countries in hosting WTTC and making it a global success. 

“Their engagement and the incentives they have outlined reflect the value they place on collaborating with WTTC, and I’d like to thank those governments for their strong support. 

“A new office will generate operational efficiencies, thanks to favourable business conditions and location advantages, and these savings will allow us to deliver greater value to our members worldwide.”

WTTC chairman Manfredi Lefebvre added: “Our global network will be enhanced by the new office location and its attractiveness to global talent. 

“This office will serve as a hub for collaboration, innovation, and sustainable development, strengthening the private sector’s leading role in the travel and tourism sector around the world.”