Hospitality sector prepares for English Tourism Week | Information

The UK Tourism Week is fast approaching and this year’s week is dedicated to helping tourism businesses and destinations across the industry as they reopen and begin rebuilding.

English Tourism Week is coordinated by VisitEngland and runs from May 22nd to 31st. It is an annual celebration of the tourism industry that highlights its economic importance to the local economy and promotes innovation, quality and the range of products and services to encourage more domestic breaks.

As the tourism agency’s latest projections show, domestic tourism spending is estimated at £ 51.4 billion this year, just over half of the £ 91.6 billion in 2019.

Last year alone, around two-thirds of its value wiped out the domestic tourism industry, meaning the economy lost £ 58 billion.

Tourism Minister Nigel Huddleston said: “The tourism sector has undoubtedly faced enormous challenges over the past year.

“That’s why we’ve supported more than £ 25 billion to date, including the unprecedented VAT cut.

“Tourism and hospitality businesses across the country have impressed me time and again over the past year with their adaptability, and I know they are all ready to welcome us back.

“English tourism has so much to offer, from rural retreats to city breaks.

“I can’t wait to explore and I urge everyone to join me in supporting our fantastic tourism sector by taking a domestic vacation in the coming months.”

In the run-up to English Tourism Week and throughout the visit, VisitEngland is encouraging people to share photos and social media posts to show support for the sector through # EnglishTourismWeek21.

VisitEngland has also created toolkits and a range of posters for tourism companies and destinations that can be downloaded and incorporated into the week to promote their local products and services, attractions and experiences.

VisitEngland and Local Destinations are also calling on MPs, local authorities, the UK Government and other stakeholders to get involved and show their support by visiting local businesses and attractions during the week.

Andrew Stokes, Director of VisitEngland, said: “Our annual event celebrating and promoting English tourism has never been more important. It was an opportunity to showcase the stellar offerings here on our doorstep as we approach the critical summer season and support local businesses and visitor attractions that have lost months of vital trade as they reopen and rebuild.

“By highlighting the quality and variety of tourism products, destinations and experiences across England, we also hope that this year people will consider taking an extra vacation home, exploring a new place, revisiting a favorite attraction or taking a city break do.

“With international tourists returning more slowly, this is also the year the crown jewels of English tourism are rediscovered in our vibrant city centers.

“Millions of jobs and local economies depend on tourism, and businesses and destinations have worked tirelessly, innovating and adapting to safely welcome visitors back and ensure they have a great experience.

“They will be very happy to see you.”

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