The UK Government has published its response to the independent de Bois review of Destination Management Organisations in England, conducted by VisitEngland Advisory Board Chair, Nick de Bois. The response recognises that Destination Management Organisations are a vital part of England’s tourism landscape, connecting with local businesses and Government agencies to attract investment and visitors across...
The Competition and Markets Authority is to investigate fuel prices, following a request from Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng to look into petrol and diesel retailers, and whether oil price drops were being passed along to fuel buyers. The CMA’s initial rapid review found concerns over a “widening gap between the price of crude oil entering...
In Wales, the First Minister has set out the next steps in a programme of actions aimed at making housing at tourism destinations more available to local residents by introducing restrictions on second homes and tourism accommodation businesses. In a Co-operation Agreement between the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru, there is a commitment to undertake...
A joint survey by UKHospitality, the British Institute of Innkeeping, and the British Beer and Pub Association, demonstrates how a shortage of workers is damaging hospitality businesses and the UK’s recovery. According to the survey, staff shortages in the hospitality industry are reaching critical levels, causing nearly half (45%) of operators to cut trading hours...
The BTA Board and VisitBritain/VisitEngland have announced the permanent appointment of Patricia Yates as CEO after “a competitive external recruitment process”. Previously Director of Strategy and Communications at VisitBritain, Patricia was also Chair of the Tourism Industry Emergency Response Group and deputy CEO.
Smoking in certain outdoor spaces could be banned under radical new proposals to curb the number of smokers in the UK. Smoking should be banned in outdoor places such as beer gardens, areas outside cafes and beaches, according to a recent independent review. Downing Street is, however, reported to be hesitant about introducing the ban to beer...
The Remarkable East Yorkshire Tourism Awards (REYTA) are organised by Visit Hull and East Yorkshire to recognise the significance of tourism to this area and celebrate the quality of businesses and individuals working within it. Now in their twelfth year, the REYTA have 16 awards over a wide range of categories. These awards are in partnership...
NCC member, Dometic, has introduced Dometic Rarotonga inflatable camping tents, featuring new Weathershield Redux material. The material is made from 100% recycled plastic bottles and is Global Recycled Standard certified. The company says it is committed to drive sustainability in the industry and its range of new Dometic Rarotonga inflatable camping tents are lightweight and...
Additional discussions took place on 11 May 2022 in the Welsh Assembly regarding the introduction of a tourism tax in the region. Darren Millar AM asked: “What assessment has the Welsh Government made of the economic impact of a tourism tax in north Wales?” Vaughan Gething responded: “We are engaging with a wide range of partners to...
The next revaluation of properties for business rates will take effect from 1 April 2023 based on the rental market at 1 April 2021. As part of this process, the Government is required to consult on transition arrangements they have used previously to help businesses to adjust to their new business rates bills. This consultation...