On stage, several high-profile panelists and speakers addressed the industry's most pressing issues.
These included questions about the role of Abta; why destinations are increasingly turning to eco-levies; how the industry can encourage travelers to think more sustainably; Is the travel industry trustworthy in the eyes of consumers? And what really is the future of the general public?
In his opening speech, Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer highlighted that the travel industry is actually an “industry of sectors”. “If we are to continue the incredible success of tourism over the past 75 years, we must find common cause to meet the challenges ahead,” he told delegates.
Tanzer's conclusion was clear: to be successful, travel must rely on a collaborative approach. The answers shared on stage about how to achieve this, however, were not always obvious.
Here are the key takeaways from this two-day conference.
The relevance of Abta in 2024
Since the pandemic, members of Abta – and other travel associations – are increasingly being asked “how much power and influence do you really have?”
During a panel discussion, Abta CEO Mark Tanzer was asked about the value of Abta today.
Highlighting Abta’s recent lobbying efforts, he said: “If you look at our public affairs and politics, we do the heavy lifting for members. We are not only talking to the government, but also to the opposition.”
Tanzer told delegates that Abta had seen around 100 new members join its ranks. But he added: “We have had a very high number of renewals, which is the ultimate sign that members think we are doing a good job for them.”
Abta, he argued, had provided its 808 members with “a better level of basic understanding” on issues impacting travel.
“The value of the brand for all of our members is immense,” he said. “We cherish that. If we didn't have Abta, you'd want to invent it.
Tanzer acknowledged that Abta is sometimes limited by the fact that it is a “vast church” with myriad members. “We had issues where not everyone had the same business interests,” he said. “When there is an impasse, the tie-break is what is good for the client.”
Garry Wilson, managing director of EasyJet Holidays, who joined the Abta board in 2021, admitted it was “much easier” to run a business rather than an organization which represents the interests of different members.
“Abta tries to represent everyone’s needs,” Wilson said. “The only thing to do is try to please everyone, you can't please anyone. Abta’s strength is ensuring that it focuses on this priority.
The debate around green taxes
Wilson also issued a warning to destinations that use so-called green taxes. “If you introduce a green tax that goes into a big pot, we have a problem with that,” he said.
“Destinations are all turning to green taxes. There needs to be a long term strategy so people can prepare for it (additional cost). It costs hundreds of euros for family vacations.
