Uk Tourism Industry News
£16 billion untapped opportunity for the UK hospitality and leisure sector
New research released today by Barclays shows that the over 65s added £37 billion to the UK economy through spending on the Hospitality & Leisure sector in the last year. This contribution equates to over a third (36%) more than the average consumer and 27% higher than the 35 – 54 year olds who are the second biggest spending generation.
Domestic tourism set for growth in standards and support for UK economy
Domestic tourism has seen an increase in popularity across the UK with many Brits choosing to holiday at home instead of travelling abroad.
Air Passenger Duty reformed for long-haul flights in UK
Air Passenger Duty has been partially reformed in the UK as the new tax year begins. From April 1st, the two more expensive bands of APD are being abolished. Band ‘C’ affects people travelling over 4,000 miles, and band ‘D’ affects journeys over 6,000 miles.
Luchford to represent Beverly Hills in UK
Following a three way pitch, Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau has appointed luxury lifestyle agency Luchford APM as its UK in-market representative to act on behalf of Beverly Hills with immediate effect. The agency won the 12 month consumer and travel trade contract based on its creative ability to develop Beverly Hills from being a luxury travel brand to a luxury lifestyle consumer product, playing on its brand pillars of gourmet dining, five-star accommodations and high-end shopping.
Stapleton takes over at Royal Crescent Hotel
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa has announced the appointment of Jonathan Stapleton as its new general manager. Under the ownership of Topland Group, the heritage hotel has recently undergone a significant renovation and meticulous restoration process, reopening its doors as a ‘British icon reborn’. Topland Group, a privately owned international investment company with a substantial hotel portfolio, has invested heavily in The Royal Crescent Hotel to consolidate its positioning as one of the world’s leading five star hotels.
Hurricane Gonzalo causes minor disruption at London Heathrow
A small number of flights in the UK have been disrupted by the arrival of Hurricane Gonzalo. The tail end of the hurricane, which late last week caused widespread disruption in the Caribbean, brought high winds and heavy rain to parts of the country.
UK passport applicants should be given refund, say MPs
Applicants for British passports who paid additional fees in an attempt to avoid processing delays should get a refund, MPs have argued. ‘Fast-track’ appointments, often promising passports would be returned in 24 hours, “exploited” travellers, according to the Home Affairs Committee.
ITC Luxury Travel management completes buyout
Jennifer Atkinson, chief executive of tour operator ITC Luxury Travel has announced she has completed a management buyout of ITC, backed by Paul Pindar, with banking provided by Santander. Pindar, the former chief executive of Capita, has been appointed chairman of the new parent company of ITC, The Luxury Travel Group.
The Woburn Hotel undergoes refurbishment
The Inn at Woburn has recently been renamed The Woburn Hotel, in keeping with other entities across The Woburn Estate, namely Woburn Abbey and Gardens, Woburn Safari Park and Woburn Golf Club. The hotel boasts 55 refurbished rooms, including cottages and suites, all with free Wi-Fi and ample space for working or relaxing, providing the perfect base for business travellers.
UK passport workers walk out on strike over pay
Passport workers in the UK have gone on strike in a dispute over staffing numbers and pay. In what is described as a “bid to end staffing shortages that have caused the ongoing backlog crisis”, members of the Pubic & Commercial Services Union walked out on a 24-hour strike this morning.
Alton Towers Resort offers exclusive access to corporate bookings
For event organisers looking to create a truly unforgettable experience then look no further than the giant gates of The Alton Towers Resort. For just a handful of dates in November 2014 and March 2015 delegates can have unlimited and exclusive access to the amazing rides and attractions of the UK’s favourite Theme Park.
Russian tourism spending slips in UK as political climate darkens
Global Blue has reported that February 2014 saw a slowdown in spend from Russian shoppers coming to the UK as political unrest exacerbated the effects of the already weakening economy, leaving Russians disinclined to travel. Tax free spend by Russian shoppers decreased 17 per cent year on year for the month of February and Russia slipped down one place to be the fourth highest spending globe shopper market, behind China, Middle East and Nigeria.