Whilst tourism businesses in the main have been unaffected by the severe weather conditions, and the resounding message from industry has been ‘business as usual’, recent research by VisitEngland shows that 10% of consumers say that have been put off taking a trip to affected areas.
VisitEngland, the national tourist board is launching a £2 million government funded campaign to support businesses affected by the recent severe weather and to drive holiday bookings in England ahead of the Easter break. The launch follows the announcement by the Department for Culture Media and Sport on 28 February of a tourism package to help affected tourism businesses get back on their feet in the aftermath of the recent flooding. VisitEngland has developed a campaign with two distinct elements – events focused on providing business support and a tactical marketing campaign called ‘Spot On England’, aimed at boosting bookings.
Whilst tourism businesses in the main have been unaffected by the severe weather conditions, and the resounding message from industry has been ‘business as usual’, recent research by VisitEngland shows that 10% of consumers say that have been put off taking a trip to affected areas.
In addition, VisitEngland is partnering with a number of destinations to organise events around the country where tourism businesses can gain free access to experts on building design, communications & social media, marketing and legal issues to ensure greater resilience against severe weather conditions in the future. There are 16 destinations involved and over 50 events planned to provide support and advice to businesses.
VisitEngland’s Chief Executive James Berresford said: “We welcome this additional funding from Government to support the tourism industry. It has enabled us to act fast, and together with our destination partners we are providing vital on the ground support to help businesses become more resilient against severe weather conditions in the future. The price-led Spot on England advertising campaign will support our efforts to reassure visitors that England remains a beautiful and exciting destination to visit this spring and summer.”
A practical online free guide is now also available and covers everything from assessing the situation, communicating with customers, reviewing marketing activity, government support and legal considerations.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
