THE fourth and final day of World Travel Market was focused on helping small and medium-sized businesses trade their way out of the downturn.
New for 2010, the WTM Business Day featured a debate with business guru Lord Digby Jones and a panel of industry experts, as well as a range of forums and advice clinics for entrepreneurs.
And, as is traditional for the fourth WTM day, the spotlight was also shone on the needs of travel agents and tourism students.
Lord Jones, former director general of the CBI, said only business can create wealth and generate taxation to help the UK recover.
He highlighted the vital importance of globalisation, outlining the opportunities presented by 1.3bn people in China, 1bn in India and 180m in Brazil.
He was joined on stage by prestigious panelists who offered business advice for small travel firms battling against the continued lack of consumer confidence.
Richard Carrick, former chief executive of Hoseasons, advised developing a USP, while Steve Byrne, managing director of Travel Counsellors, urged: “Focus on value and the quality of your people – not the price.”
Recalling the volcanic ash chaos, Matt Stuart, managing director of Getabed, advised: “Think the unthinkable…and try to mitigate that.”