9th February 2018 – Today, UKinbound has announced that next year the city of Glasgow will, for the first time in 31 years, host its Annual Convention, from 6th – 8th February 2019.
As part of UKinbound’s commitment to promoting all corners of the UK, next year’s convention will see over 260 of the association’s members converge on Glasgow for the three-day business event.Delegates, representing travel trade buyers and tour operators from across Glasgow’s key international visitor markets, will have the opportunity to attend topical industry debates, B2B workshops and addresses from leading keynote speakers, as well as a black-tie gala dinner where the association’s annual Awards for Excellence are announced.
Hosting next year’s convention will further Glasgow’s ambition to grow its tourism economy, as outlined in the city’s Tourism and Visitor Plan, which aims to attract 1 million more overnight visitors and create nearly 7,000 new jobs by 2023. Glasgow’s bid was led by Glasgow Life with support from Glasgow City Council, Glasgow Airport, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, VisitScotland and Scottish Enterprise.Working in conjunction with Glasgow Life, UKinbound will arrange a series of familiarisation trips for delegates geared at showcasing the quality and diversity of Glasgow’s tourism offer, fostering stronger relationships between buyers and local industry, and reinforcing the city’s position as one of Europe’s leading visitor destinations and the gateway to Scotland.
UKinbound’s chief executive officer, Deirdre Wells OBE, said: “We’re delighted to announce Glasgow as the host city for our 2019 Annual Convention. Glasgow presented an impressive bid, showing its desire to engage with the travel trade and a willingness to work with us to implement a long-term tourism strategy. Substantial support has been given by its attractions and hotels, and throughout the whole tender process the city showed immense flexibility and a passion to work with us.”
Councillor David McDonald, chair of Glasgow Life and deputy leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “Glasgow Life has enjoyed a strong and productive relationship with UKinbound for some time and together we are continuing to deliver a programme of successful industry events in the city. Our partnership provides the foundation for Glasgow’s engagement with the wider UK travel trade and is integral to attracting more international visitors; boosting our tourism economy and creating jobs. We’re thrilled that the city has been chosen to host UKinbound’s 2019 annual convention and we’re very much looking forward to welcoming their members and delegates next year.”
