Industry Analysis

Over 35,000 professionals from across the travel and tourism industry descended on London for one of the most anticipated events in the travel calendar. WTM London returned as an in-person event for the first time since 2019. The Templemere team was in attendance, and here are the insights we took away from the event.

#1 – While there is still much uncertainty, there is plenty of room for cautious optimism The heart and resilience of the travel industry was fully obvious to anyone walking through the field of over 3,000 exhibitors on the trade show floor. The future is as difficult to predict as ever, but with worldwide travel getting closer to 2019 levels, Asia reopening once again and business travel on the up, there is reason for those within the industry to be confident.

#2 – Travellers want the ability to design their own unique travel experience

Personalisation is a theme now very much ingrained in our day-to-day lives. People now expect to be able to choose from a variety of options and craft experiences and products which are just for them. A one-size-fits-all approach no longer appeals, and that is no different when it comes to leisure travel. Going forward, travel options will need to be much more agile.

#3 – Collaboration is essential in the current climate

Many of the conversations were focused on the concept of establishing collaborative partnerships, creating both a support network which can be relied on in times of crisis and the opportunity to cross-sell and provide new services for travellers. The general consensus is that since we are all pulling in the same direction, working together can only get us there faster.

#4 – The celebratory tone of the event reflected the feeling of the industry

Whilst there were plenty of insights to take on board and conversations to be had throughout the event, there was also a lot to celebrate – and celebrate people did. It’s been a remarkable year for the industry as travel has rebounded in a big way and there was a jovial mood amongst exhibitors and visitors.