TORONTO — VisitBritain’s annual travel trade event will be going virtual in 2021.
ExploreGB will be known as ExploreGB Virtual when it kicks off on March 1. The five-day event will invite international buyers to connect online with travel trade suppliers from across the U.K. do conduct business and boost bookings.
Attendance is free, with registration set to open from mid-December.
“Using a tried and tested online platform, ExploreGB Virtual will give travel industry suppliers and destinations from across the U.K. the chance to get their products and services in front of top global buyers and forge valuable business connections,” said Sally Balcombe, VisitBritain Chief Executive. “As well as the opportunity to do business, this flagship global trade event will keep the U.K. front of mind globally as a leading destination for visitors, ultimately driving future bookings and boosting local economies.”
Hundreds of pre-scheduled, one-on-one virtual business meetings are anticipated to take place during the event. Delegates will be able to virtually explore live exhibition booths, while buyers and international journalists can also attend webinars and online networking events to boost their knowledge of the U.K.
The event will start with an online VisitBritain International Business Exchange (VIBE), which will allow U.K. suppliers to meet virtually with VisitBritain in-market experts.
Gavin Landry Executive Vice President, Americas, said that ExploreGB Virtual will be a valuable opportunity for buyers across the Americas, including Canada and the U.S., to connect with industry suppliers and destinations from across the U.K.
“VisitBritain continues to find creative solutions to adapt to our new normal, and using this dynamic online platform we are looking forward to highlighting the best of Britain’s tourism products, experiences, attractions and destinations with the Canadian travel industry, as well as the processes in place to welcome visitors back safely and still providing a great experience,” said Landry.
ExploreGB Virtual will accommodate time zones with a scheduled program for international buyers from both short- and long-haul destinations.
For more details go to visitbritain.org.
