A Busy Year Ahead For LDS Tourism Services

Although data published by ONS in the latest Overseas Travel and Tourism Statistical Bulletin shows that inbound travel to the UK was down by 9% in the year to September (contributed to by a 24% drop in business travel to the UK), VisitBritain believes that the UK tourist industry has reached a “turning point” and predicts that inbound tourism will help lead Britain’s economic recovery during the months ahead with modest growth expected in 2010.

More encouraging still is a recent survey by VisitEngland, which has found that almost three quarters of adults (72%) are likely to take a domestic break next year. The study suggests the return of the great British holiday is no ‘flash in the pan’, but a result of changing attitudes as UK residents shun outbound travel for holidays on home soil. According to TravelMole, James Berresford, the chief executive of VisitEngland has said that research “further confirms and highlights” the staycation is “here to stay”.

There is certainly little sign of local tourism operators cutting back on their promotional leaflets and brochures in 2010. If anything, it seems that LDSTS’ clients are scaling back on other forms of advertising in order to increase their annual print-runs and make full use of our popular Network Service.

The use of micro-blogging sites such as Twitter is also gaining rapid penetration within the travel industry. According to a new study by Andy Jarosz, writer and owner of the travel blog 501 Places, managing directors, commercial directors, hotel owners and government officials are actively using social media tools to forge connections with their customers.

Life is as hectic as ever for the management and employees of LDS Tourism Services. In addition to the numerous meetings, tight distribution schedules and newly signed contracts, we are currently giving the Border Distribution Centre a fresh lick of paint.

We recently became a member of The Mersey Partnership, the official Tourist Board for Merseyside. Our advert is now live on visitLiverpool.com and we are looking forward to networking with fellow members of this esteemed organisation.

Incidentally, there are now 669 members of our Brochure Marketing group on LinkedIn – an interconnected network of experienced professionals from around the world.

Please keep sending us your comments, queries and suggestions, especially concerning the topics and issues you would like to see tackled on this blog.

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