ABTA AND FTO JOIN TOGETHER TODAY
Date published: 01 July 2008The move sees the two leading UK travel trade associations coming together to create a powerful and authoritative voice for the industry, which will more effectively represent its broad membership of travel companies.
Members stand to benefit from the expertise of both organisations, which bring different strengths to the new association. The FTO’s experience and knowledge in operational issues – particularly regarding health and safety issues, crisis management and responsible tourism - will complement ABTA’s role in financial protection, consumer standards and the provision of information.
The new association creates a stronger voice for all Members, reinforcing both organisations’ lobbying influence in the UK and Europe.
Mark Tanzer, ABTA Chief Executive said: Together ABTA and the FTO represent a formidable voice for the industry which will considerably strengthen our position when dealing with the Government and European Union. Our complementary areas of expertise will also bring considerable benefits to both sets of Members and I look forward to working with Andy Cooper and the expert staff of the FTO.
Andy Cooper, Director General of the FTO adds: We are pleased to complete the amalgamation. This will see the strength of the FTO in areas such as its destination expertise on issues including health and safety, responsible tourism and crisis management, come together with ABTA’s strong focus on wider industry issues.
For further information
Sean Tipton, Communications Officer 020 7307 1902/1900
Frances Tuke, Public Relations Manager 020 7307 1903/1900
David Marshall, Head of Policy & Communications 020 7307 1912 or 07894 073 010
Graham Lancaster, for the FTO, 020 7467 9200 or 07860 512 204
Out of Hours: contact the Duty Press Officer via pager: 07659 190 987
Notes to editors
