Business Leaders from across the Central South attended a Business South Seminar that explored the current state of the Visitor Economy in the recovery phase of the pandemic.
Attendees heard from a range of sector experts including Danny Pecorelli, Managing Director at Exclusive Hotels, Amy Dobson, Sales and Marketing Manager at Bombay Sapphire Distillery and Richard Nicholls, Head of Research at Visit Britain.
Our speakers were later joined by panellists Gareth Rogers, Chief Executive Officer at Farnborough International Limited and Fran Downton, Chief Executive Officer at Tourism Southeast.
The seminar was chaired by Rosemary French OBE, Business South board director, and a local bed and breakfast accommodation operator.
There was much debate on the impact of Brexit and the shortages of skilled staff and that both issues had been exasperated by staff absences due to the so-called ping-demic.
But there was much to reflect on in terms of the positive features of our region. From the site of the signing of the Magna Carta, historic buildings, museums, theatres, conference venues, renowned vineyards, theme parks, diverse retail and accommodation, castles, heritage railways, its ancient rolling heathland, its centres of excellence, plus Brooklands Museum, Mercedes World and the National Trust properties.
As the Staycation has grown, so have Traveller’s expectations. The Phygital offer where technology bridges the gap between the digital and physical world now provides unique interactive experiences for the customer, even before they leave their home. Experiential tourism where the weather cannot be guaranteed will take the place of foreign holidays on the beach. Tourists will be looking for heritage, culture, food and drink, gardens, and so many outdoor experiences more than at any other time.
Our seminar looked at crucial issues including:
- How will the Central South keep up with the new needs of travellers?
- Do we recognise and cater for the wide range of tourists from empty nesters to families, from mini breakers to value seekers?
- How do we attract back the newly anxious and nervous?
Our seminar concluded with a Q&A session with the speakers and panellists in a lively debate on current issues. The main conclusion was that notwithstanding short-term setbacks those involved in the Visitor Economy should have optimism about the future.
The Seminar Chair Rosemary French thanked all the participants and the audience for attending. Special thanks were extended to Guildford, Waverley and Surrey Heath Borough Councils and Basingstoke and Deane District Council who are all kindly partnering the Business South Seminar Series.
The next Business South Seminar is on the 15th of September and will consider the challenges faced by retailers and our High Streets.
