But if there was one theme that emerged from all of the varied content, it was that of unity – and how much can be achieved by working together; from the non-LGBT senior leaders at Hoseasons and Thomas Cook Airlines speaking out in support of the LGBT community and making diversity the new normal, to the many businesses (from the CIA to Google) volunteering to share their knowledge and advice on diversity with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCCL).
The theme of togetherness was also present at last week’s Abta Travel Matters conference, with Thomas Cook Group chief executive Peter Fankhauser illustrating the magnitude of cross-industry partnership as he announced details of the Safer Tourism Foundation.
The independent charity, which is designed to improve health and safety standards for holidaymakers, is a huge step that was borne out of the Corfu carbon monoxide tragedy, but it could help save lives in future. Fankhauser made clear though, that success depends on others sharing best practice and knowledge.
Cross-sector partnerships are also set to become increasingly paramount elsewhere as the UK navigates the unchartered waters of Brexit. Senior leaders at Travel Matters agreed the UK travel sector must remain united in encouraging the government to prioritise issues such as open skies and the Customs Union in the Brexit negotiations.
Half of the two million people that go on a cruise use a plane to get there, Stuart Leven, managing director of RCCL, pointed out. It is crucial that all sectors of the industry continue working together, because an aviation deal ahead of Brexit matters – for everyone.
It is only in remaining united and working together that the travel industry will come out on top.
