Working with the Travel trade including international operators and UK suppliers is an important part of the work of Cotswolds Tourism. With The Cotswolds being a key, attract brand for England and the UK, we are keen to introduce local businesses to relevant operator contacts as well as promoting the wider region.
We have many years of experience establishing relationships with VisitBritain overseas offices, key operators and reaching out to new buyers in the industry. We continue to raise awareness of new product, as well as continuing to nurture relationships with those operators who have strong established itineraries in the region. We particularly target those operators that encourage fully independent travellers (FIT), active travel or small niche and luxury groups.
Prior to the pandemic, we had worked across several Discover England projects including Uncover the Cotswolds that has established a dedicated travel trade website, regular trade newsletters and engagement with tour operators. We also host educational trips for buyers to explore the Cotswolds and experience the accommodation, experiences and attractions and with support from businesses attend key trade events throughout the year.
Businesses should be aware that working with the travel trade can be long-lead project as parts of the industry work on an 18-month to two-year lead-time. So if you are looking to reach new audiences or learning more about our travel trade activity and plans then do get in touch via cotswoldstourism@cotswold.gov.uk or check out these useful resources for businesses keen to work with the travel trade.
Useful resources
Visit Britain’s key tips and resources for working with the trade
VisitBritain – Understanding Travel Trade giving an overview and links to country profiles
VisitEngland - Taking England to the World Both virtual & F2F courses are available as well as small bit size training guides to enable businesses to become travel trade ready
VisitBritain Webinars learn about key inbound markets
TXGB – Enabling businesses to get direct bookable
Travel trade associations include
