The Travel Convention 2022 Programme

CONVENTION PROGRAMME The UK travel industry’s flagship event: where conversations, connections and ideas happen

#ABTAmarrakech

MARRAKECH // MOROCCO 10-12 OCTOBER 2022 HEADLINE PARTNERS

HOST

MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

ISRAEL,

MONUMENTAL MOMENTS, UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES

DEAD SEA

PLAN YOUR TRIP NOW GOISRAEL.COM THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

2

THE TRAVEL CONVENTION

Welcome to The Travel Convention On behalf of ABTA, it is my pleasure to welcome you to The Travel Convention in Marrakech.

HEADLINE PARTNERS

This year’s Convention is the first hosted overseas since the start of the pandemic, and the first to take place in Morocco since 2005, so it is a momentous occasion for ABTA, our Members and our Partners.

I know you will be warmly welcomed by our hosts, the Moroccan National Tourism Office, and on behalf of us all, I’d like to thank them for their tremendous support. The event provides the opportunity to remind us of all that Marrakech has to offer. Over 1,000 years old, this enchanting city is renowned for its history and artistry, flourishing souks, and diverse landscape.

I’m sure the ochre city will offer the ideal backdrop for networking, learning and discussion.

With Travel’s new landscape as our theme, this year’s business sessions will provide you with valuable insights into what our world, our industry and our businesses will look like in 2023 and beyond. Speakers will address challenges on the horizon, exciting opportunities to embrace, and the steps we can take to thrive in an ever-changing world as we navigate this changing landscape for travel together.

I wish you a fruitful and enjoyable time in Marrakech.

TRADE MEDIA PARTNER

www.thetravelconvention.com

@TheTravelConv // #ABTAmarrakech

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

Mark Tanzer Chief Executive ABTA

www.abta.com

@ABTAtravel

3

Kingdom of light

visitmorocco.com

MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022 THE TRAVEL CONVENTION

Welcome to Marrakech 17 years after a very successful ABTA Convention in Marrakech, Morocco and the city of Marrakech are proud to welcome back The Travel Convention as we couldn’t miss the opportunity to meet and speak to the leading travel agents, tour operators and high-profile industry leaders.

For many of you, this isn’t your first visit to Morocco. However, you will be able to discover a new shape of its rich cultural heritage, spectacular scenery, ornate architecture, warm hospitality, and delicious cuisine.

Marrakech is the perfect setting for an international gathering of this magnitude.

Its unique blend of traditional and modern lifestyles, authentic souks and medinas, and luxury hotels and venues are all strong assets that define the destination and make it a perfect match for the values of sustainable tourism that ABTA stands for.

Don’t miss the wonders of this fabulous imperial city.

HOST

We would also like to invite you to discover and appreciate the unique light of Morocco, which has always been a source of inspiration for poets, painters and film makers. This wonderful light is at the heart of our new international communication platform “Morocco – the Kingdom of Light”, which highlights the great natural diversity of the country, as well as its living and authentic culture.

We’ve all been waiting for this Convention to take place in Marrakech for three years. It is the first ABTA Convention to be held abroad since the pandemic.

So welcome to Marrakech. I wish you plenty of success for your meetings.

May this Travel Convention be a new milestone in the development of British tourism in Morocco.

Mr. Adel El Fakir Chief Executive Officer Morrocan National Tourism Office

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN 5

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MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

Programme of events Monday 10 October

[pages 9-12]

From 08:00

Golf tournament and lunch*

Royal Golf Marrakech

08:00-17:00

Excursions and experiences*

See page 9

10:00-13:00

Cycle for LifeLine and lunch*

18:00-19:00

ABTA Members’ Reception****

Jamra (the lower pool), Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

19:15-19:45

Opening Ceremony

Royal Ballroom, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

20:15-23:00

Welcome Party (with supper)

23:00-02:00

Convention Bar

Tuesday 11 October

Al Manara Gardens to AMAL Association

Meydene, M Avenue Manso Bar and Terrace, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

[pages 14-19]

08:00-09:15

Travel Weekly Business Breakfast***

Salle Fes 2, Palais de Congres

08:45-09:30

ABTA Press Briefing**

Salle Fes 1, Palais de Congres

09:15-09:45

Convention Hub

Ballroom foyer, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

09:40-15:30

Business sessions

Royal Ballroom, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

09:50-10:00

Welcome

10:00-10:15

Travel’s new landscape

10:15-10:40

Tourism, geopolitics and the future

Tuesday 11 October

[pages 14-19] [continued]

10:40-11:05

The consumer outlook

11:05-11:30

Let’s discuss: travel’s new landscape

11:30-11:35

ABTA LifeLine

11:35-12:05

Coffee break

12:10 -12:40

Making work ‘work’

12:40-13:00

Leading decarbonisation in travel

13:00-14:00

Lunch

14:00-14:30

Leading with purpose for people and the planet

James Thornton

14:30-15:00

Let’s discuss: sustainability

Tim Alderslade Matt Callaghan Susan Deer José Puyana

15:00-15:30

The art of influence

Hand Luggage Only

18:30-20:00

Meet the Media*

Selman, Marrakech

20:30-00:00

Host Party (with supper)

Beldi Country Club

00:00-02:00

Convention Bar

Rick Jones Eleanor Scott Dame Irene Hays Richard Singer Garry Wilson Derek Jones

Ballroom foyer, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi Christine Armstrong Alistair Pritchard Carol Rose Saray Restaurant, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

Chris Ship Mark Tanzer Rory Stewart OBE

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

Manso Bar & Terrace, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

6

THE TRAVEL CONVENTION

Wednesday 12 October

[pages 21-24]

09:30-10:00

Convention Hub

Ballroom foyer, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

09:50 -15:00

Business sessions

Royal Ballroom, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

10:00-10:05

Welcome to day two

10:05-10:30

In the news…

Lewis Goodall

10:30-10:55

In conversation with...

Michael Bayley

10:55-11:30

Say hello to Gen Z

11:30-12:00

Coffee break

12:00-12:25

Meet the Queenagers

12:25-13:00

Let’s talk: travel marketing

13:00-14:00

Lunch

* **

Advance booking required media only

Chris Ship

Jenk Oz Ballroom Foyer, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

Wednesday 12 October

[continued] [pages 21-24]

14:00-14:35

Let’s discuss: travel in 2023

14:35-14:55

Walking with Nomads

14:55-15:00

Closing remarks

15:00-15:05

Destination 2023 launch

Chris Ship

20:00-22:30

Convention Supper Club*

Al Fassia Restaurant

22:00-02:00

Convention Bar

Lucy Huxley Ben Bouldin Lee Haslett Giles Hawke Alice Morrison Alistair Rowland

Manso Bar and Terrace, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

Eleanor Mills Dean Harvey Lisa McAuley Suzanne Korff

Saray Restaurant, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

*** by invitation only **** ABTA Members only

ABTA reserves the right to change the programme as outlined in this brochure.

ABTA is happy for private events to take place during the Convention, provided they do not clash with the business sessions, refreshment breaks, Opening Ceremony, Welcome Party, Host Party or Convention Bar. Any company hosting a private event that clashes with the official programme will be barred from attending future Travel Conventions.

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MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

People & planet-friendly small group adventures since 1989.

Sahara Desert, Morocco

intrepidtravel.com THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

THE TRAVEL CONVENTION

Pre-Convention activities Excursions On Monday 10 October, delegates can take part in a range of excursions, trips, and activities, which have been designed to help you experience, explore and learn about our host destination. Note: advance booking required.

08:00-12:00

Agafay Desert

09:00-12:00 or 14:00-17:00

Cultural Marrakech sightseeing

09:00-12:00 or 14:00-17:00

Marjorelle and Secret Gardens

14:00-17:00

Jemaa el-Fna Square

09:00-16:00

Atlas Mountains

10:00-13:00

Tasting trail

10:00-14:00

Shop and cook as a local

Social activities 08:00-15:00

Golf tournament and lunch

10:00-13:00

Cycle for LifeLine and lunch

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

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MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

Monday 10 October 08:00-15:00

Golf tournament*

10:00-13:00

Royal Golf Marrakech

The annual golf tournament will take place at the Royal Golf Marrakech. The course, described as an ‘oasis in the desert’ with its perfectly manicured gardens, offers a unique setting for an 18-hole round of golf. Upon completion of the course, golfers can relax and network in the club’s restaurant, once voted Best Clubhouse by Golf Inc Magazine. Transfers, arrival refreshments, green fees and a prize-giving buffet lunch will be provided.

08:00-17:00

Get a taste of what this spectacular city has to offer through a cycling tour. All proceeds will go to ABTA’s charitable trust, ABTA LifeLine, and local charity AMAL, which helps disadvantaged women in Morocco.

Provided by

Excursions* Discover Marrakech through a range of full and half day excursions brought to you by the Moroccan National Tourism Office and Intrepid Travel. Trips include cultural Marrakech sightseeing; Marjorelle and Secret Gardens; Jemaa el-Fna Square; Atlas Mountains; a tasting trail and how to cook like a local.

Cycle for LifeLine*

Led by one of Intrepid Travel’s female tour guides, the ride will begin at Al-Manara Gardens before taking in the Royal Golf Marrakech, the Adgal Gardens, The Palmary, and finally back to Gueliz via Casablanca’s Road, passing by Marjane Market. The ride will finish at the Amal Association where participants will be able to enjoy a well-earned lunch.

For transfer times, please check the Convention app.

18:00-19:00

ABTA Members’ Reception Jamra (the lower pool), Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

For details, please visit the Convention website or app.

Sponsored by

19:15-19:45

ABTA Members are invited to join ABTA’s Board and senior leadership team for a reception to mark the beginning of this year’s Travel Convention. The event, which is sponsored by Sabre, will take place at the Jamra, the lower pool and bar at the Convention hotel.

Opening Ceremony Royal Ballroom, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

This year’s Travel Convention hosts – the Moroccan National Tourism Office – will formally welcome delegates to Morocco and to the imperial city of Marrakech during the Opening Ceremony, which will take place in the Royal Ballroom.

*Advance booking is required.

For last minute availability, please email moreinfo@thetravelconvention.com

The ceremony will be led by the Chief Executive Officer of the MNTO, Adel El Fakir, followed by a special dance performance.

MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT

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MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

Monday 10 October 20:15-23:00

Theme

Welcome Party (with supper)

Travel’s new landscape

Meydene, M Avenue

Hosted by

Hosted by the Moroccan National Tourism Office, the Welcome Party and supper will take place at Meydene, an interactive cultural centre located in the heart of the newly developed M Avenue.

During the party, delegates will enjoy a theatrical show, an immersive multimedia experience and walk through an eclectic exhibition, which unveils the magic and beauty of Marrakech.

The lifting of Covid restrictions has demonstrated a strong and continued appetite for tourism, in all its forms, creating hope and positivity across the

Food stations, offering a taste of Morocco, will be located throughout the building with further delicious traditional dishes and drinks served at the venue’s rooftop restaurant, Le Douar, to the sounds of a local DJ.

travel industry. Yet much about our world has changed. As we look to 2023 and

Transfer: the venue is a five-minute walk from the Convention hotel.

With this year’s business sessions themed around Travel’s new landscape, you will hear

beyond, we shall be entering a new era for travel with a multiplicity of challenges to overcome, lessons to learn, and exciting possibilities to embrace.

from the industry’s leaders, as well as from external experts and engaging guest speakers, who will present thought-provoking and future-focused content as we navigate the new landscape for travel together.

Key pillars The foundation of the Convention programme is developed around four key pillars: 23:00-02:00

Convention Bar

what’s going on and what lies ahead

Manso Bar and Terrace, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

current issues and emerging trends

Sponsored by

Following the Welcome Party, you’ll have the opportunity to continue networking with fellow delegates at the Convention Bar, sponsored by Noda. The venue is the Manso Bar and Terrace at the Convention headquarters hotel.

new ways of working and marketing high-quality networking with fellow travel professionals.

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

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MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

Tuesday 11 October Travel Weekly Business Breakfast***

08:00-09:15

Organised by

By invitation only

09:50-10:00

Salle Fes 2, Palais de Congres

Chris Ship, Moderator

Challenges and opportunities in the months ahead

Chris Ship, the Royal Editor at ITV News, returns to moderate the Convention’s business sessions for the seventh time.

As a precursor to the mainstage sessions, Travel Weekly’s invitation-only business breakfast will assess the first open summer since the pandemic and the outlook heading into the winter season with speakers including Intrepid Travel managing director Zina Bencheikh, Royal Caribbean vice-president EMEA Ben Bouldin and former Der Touristik UK chief executive, Derek Jones.

Sponsored by

10:00-10:15 08.45-09.30

Invited media only

Chris will welcome delegates to The Travel Convention and set out the intention and context for this year’s Convention theme: Travel’s new landscape.

Travel’s new landscape

ABTA Press Briefing**

Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive, ABTA

Salle Fes 1, Palais de Congres

In his opening remarks, Mark Tanzer will share his own perspectives on this year’s Convention theme and reflect on the significant events the travel industry has experienced since the last Convention.

ABTA will reveal the findings of this year’s Holiday Habits report, offering an exclusive first look to journalists at the Convention.

09:40-15:30

Welcome

Business sessions 10:15-10:40

Tourism, geopolitics and the future

Royal Ballroom, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi Rory Stewart OBE

Doors will open at 09:40 for the opening day of business sessions.

Sponsored by

In this session, Rory Stewart, author, traveller, documentary maker, and former cabinet minister, will reflect on the shape of global politics – from the rise of populism to the war in Ukraine – and then link it back to the global economy and the future of travel.

He will explore travel’s important role in helping to address global poverty, its contribution to understanding of other cultures and the ways in which new technology can help make a stronger, more sustainable travel industry for the future.

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @TheTravelConv #ABTAmarrakech THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

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THE TRAVEL CONVENTION

10:40-11:05

The consumer outlook Rick Jones, Partner, Corporate Finance, Head of Travel and Leisure, PwC Eleanor Scott, Travel Director, Strategy& (PwC)

Rick Jones and Eleanor Scott will provide a PwC view on the outlook for the UK economy, and how the cost-of-living squeeze will impact consumers. The session will include proprietary research on how consumers say they are changing their spending to cope, and where travel sits in their spending priorities – with some crystal ball gazing for what this might mean for travel in 2023.

11:05-11:30

Let’s discuss: travel’s new landscape Chris Ship will be joined by a panel of industry experts who will share their own thoughts and opinions on travel’s new landscape.

Chris will facilitate the discussion and invite questions from the audience.

** media only

Dame Irene Hays

Richard Singer

Garry Wilson

Owner and Chair, Hays Travel

Chief Executive Officer, Ice Travel Group

Chief Executive Officer, easyJet Holidays

*** by invitation only 15

MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

Tuesday 11 October 11:30-11:35

ABTA LifeLine Derek Jones, Chair, ABTA LifeLine

ABTA LifeLine is your charity providing much needed support to travel industry colleagues in times of need.

With the cost of living crisis, applications to ABTA LifeLine are on the rise. Here's how you can show your support at The Travel Convention.

The Chair of ABTA LifeLine will introduce this year’s Convention LifeLine events.

11:35-12:05

Sponsored by

Coffee break Ballroom Foyer, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

The Ballroom Foyer will be the place to enjoy light refreshments courtesy of the Moroccan National Tourism Office and take the opportunity to network with fellow delegates.

12:10 -12:40

Making work ‘work’ Christine Armstrong, Writer, Consultant, and Founder, Armstrong Associates

Get involved: The charity bike ride The charity auction £2 per employee pledge The prize draw - win a Mulberry handbag!

Discover more by scanning our QR code.

Follow us on social @ABTAlifeline @ABTALifeLine

What is going on in the world of work, what comes next and how do we make this new world of work actually work?

The rising and falling issues around office space, attracting and retaining talent, the impact of new working practices on different groups and generations, working models, the cost-ofliving crisis and much more.

Christine will share the big data and current trends, brought to life with her own research and a dose of humour to ensure you know more about what’s going on out there than anyone else.

*Advance booking is required. For last minute availability, please email moreinfo@thetravelconvention.com

#ABTAmarrakech THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

THE TRAVEL CONVENTION

12:40-13:00

Leading decarbonisation in travel Alistair Pritchard, Lead Partner, Travel and Aviation, Deloitte Carol Rose, Senior Sustainability Manager, ABTA

With climate change a global threat, urgent action to tackle carbon emissions is required from all sectors and businesses of all sizes. In this session, ABTA and Deloitte will launch their new Climate Action Guidebook, a manual to help leaders decarbonise travel and tourism.

13:00-14:00

Sponsored by

Lunch Saray Restaurant, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

The Moroccan National Tourism Office invites all delegates to join them for a buffet lunch at the hotel’s Saray Restaurant.

The restaurant provides indoor and outdoor seating areas and is located beside the hotel’s main pool.

14:00-14:30

Leading with purpose for people and the planet James Thornton, Chief Executive Officer, Intrepid Travel

Back in 2005, Intrepid Travel’s co-founders faced their inconvenient truth: the business they had built was contributing to global warming, which was also leading to increased inequality.

They believed travel could – and should – do better.

Today, Intrepid is the world’s largest travel B Corp and a leader in sustainable adventures. CEO, James Thornton, shares how travel can build a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

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7 AMAZING SHIPS

SAILING IN EUROPE IN SUMMER 2023 ON SALE NOW

THE TRAVEL CONVENTION

Tuesday 11 October 14:30-15:00

Let’s discuss: sustainability

18:30-20:00

Meet the Media* Selman Marrakech

Chris Ship will be joined by a panel of industry experts who will share their visions for a sustainable travel industry, from new aviation fuels to encouraging biodiversity. Chris will facilitate the discussion and invite questions from the audience.

Sponsored by

This event, sponsored by Intrepid Travel, will be attended by the travel journalists invited to join this year’s Travel Convention, as well as those delegates who have purchased tickets.

The drinks reception will take place at the Selman Marrakech; an elegant hotel with a unique atmosphere set on 15 acres of landscaped grounds with beautiful views of the Atlas Mountains.

15:00-15:30

Tim Alderslade

Matt Callaghan

Susan Deer

José Puyana

Chief Executive, Airlines UK

Director of Customer and Operations, easyJet Holidays

Director of Industry Relations, ABTA

Regional Director for Europe, ProColombia

The art of influence

20:30-00:00

Beldi Country Club

Hosted by

Yaya Onalaja-Aliu and Lloyd Griffiths, Hand Luggage Only

The growth of the creator marketing industry isn’t showing any signs of slowing, with brands set to spend significant sums on influencer marketing in 2023. Partnerships with creators are now commonplace for many brands, but there is still much for the travel sector to learn about influencer marketing. In this session, we meet Yaya and Lloyd from Hand Luggage Only to find out what influencers look for from brands, and how brands can work with them.

Host Party (with supper)

The Host Party, hosted by The Moroccon National Tourism Office, will take place at the Beldi Country Club, a five-star luxury hotel and event venue nestled in the middle of six hectares of rose gardens and olive trees. The Club’s magic lies in the sheer size of its grounds and beautiful gardens. It is an eco-friendly Club with nature, local people and sustainability at its heart.

Located near the Medina and just a short transfer from the Convention hotel, the party will include a celebration of Moroccan cuisine, culture and entertainment.

00:00-02:00

Convention Bar Manso Bar & Terrace, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

*Advance booking is required. For last minute availability, please email moreinfo@thetravelconvention.com

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

The Convention Bar will be ready and waiting for you to continue networking with fellow delegates on your return from the Host Party.

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THE TRAVEL CONVENTION

Wednesday 12 October 09:50 -15:00

10:00-10:05

Business Sessions

10:30-10:55

In conversation with Michael Bayley

Royal Ballroom, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International

Doors open at 09:50

In this video conversation with the President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, Chris Ship will discuss travel’s new landscape and the key themes of this year’s business sessions from a global cruise line perspective.

Welcome to day two Chris Ship, Moderator 10:55-11:30

10:05-10:30

In the news…

Jenk Oz, Social change activist, Entrepreneur, Founder and CEO, Thred Media

Lewis Goodall, Journalist, Broadcaster and Author

In this session, we will hear from Lewis Goodall; co-host of Global’s new and already chart-topping podcast – The News Agents – which he presents with Emily Maitlis and Jon Sopel.

The podcast explores the biggest stories in the news and strives to explain why certain events unfold in the way they do. Lewis will bring this depth, insight, and expertise to the stage to discuss the stories dominating the news at the time of the Convention and their possible impact on travel.

Say hello to Gen Z

Sponsored by

11:30-12:00

Sponsored by

Jenk will enlighten us on Gen Z – the generation that represents 32% of the global population and trillions in hard and soft spending power. He will explain who they are, what matters to them, how they behave, how they are changing the landscape of consumerism and pushing the boundaries of activism – and what all this might mean for travel.

Coffee Break Ballroom Foyer, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

Head to the Ballroom Foyer to network with fellow delegates over refreshments, kindly provided by the Moroccan National Tourism Office.

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

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MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

Wednesday 12 October 12:00-12:25

Meet the Queenagers

12:25-13:00

Eleanor Mills, Founder, Noon

Sponsored by

Let’s talk: travel marketing Chris Ship will be joined by a panel of travel marketing experts to talk about tapping into niche markets and the travel marketing trends that we can expect to take a front seat in 2023. Chris will facilitate the discussion and invite questions from the audience.

Eleanor Mills is the Founder of Noon and an award-winning editor, writer and broadcaster. Noon is a unique platform connecting brands with women in midlife, a massive, financially lucrative and under-served cohort.

Dubbed ‘Queenagers’ with spending power and influence, Noon’s ground-breaking research on the attitudes, spending and preoccupations of midlife women, has unearthed some surprising insights. In conversation with Chris Ship, Eleanor will talk about this new cohort, how to market to them and their travel aspirations.

13:00-14:00

Sponsored by

Dean Harvey

Lisa McAuley

Suzanne Korff

Marketing Director, Der Touristik UK

Owner and Managing Director, Silver Travel Advisor

Director of Marketing & Communications, Princess Cruises UK and Europe

Lunch Saray Restaurant, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

The Moroccan National Tourism Office invites delegates to join them for a buffet lunch, which will once again take place at the hotel’s Saray Restaurant, located beside the hotel’s main pool.

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

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THE TRAVEL CONVENTION

14:00-14:35

Let’s discuss: travel in 2023 Moderated by Lucy Huxley, Editor in Chief, Travel Weekly Group

Lucy Huxley, Editor-in-Chief at the Travel Weekly Group will be joined by a panel of industry leaders to discuss travel in 2023, covering operational issues and the changing distribution landscape through to how to attract and retain talent. Lucy will facilitate the discussion and invite questions from the audience.

14:35-14:55

Ben Bouldin

Lee Haslett

Giles Hawke

Vice President EMEA, Royal Caribbean International

Vice President Global Sales, Virgin Atlantic

Chief Executive Officer, Cosmos Tours

Walking with Nomads Alice Morrison, Author, Adventurer and Presenter

Scottish adventurer Alice Morrison is the presenter of the BBC2 Series Morocco to Timbuktu: An Arabian Adventure. In her latest book, Walking with Nomads, she tells the story of three remarkable and inspirational journeys across Morocco, from the Sahara to the Atlas Mountains, to reveal the growing challenges faced by our planet. Alice will draw on her deep knowledge of and love for Morocco and share tales of her remarkable journeys across the region.

23 23

AD SPACE

MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

Wednesday 12 October 14:55-15:00

15:00-15:05

Closing remarks

22:00-02:00

Convention Bar

Alistair Rowland, Chairman, ABTA

Manso Bar and Terrace, Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

The Chairman of ABTA will highlight his key takeaways from the business sessions and thank all those involved in delivering this year’s event in Marrakech, as he brings the 2022 Travel Convention to a close.

A final chance to enjoy some informal networking and to bid farewell to your travel colleagues and the exotic and vibrant city of Marrakech.

Destination 2023 launch Chris Ships leads the much-anticipated reveal of next year’s host destination. Where in the world will it be?

20:00-22:30

Convention Supper Club* Al Fassia Restaurant

The Convention Supper Club will give delegates the opportunity to get together over an informal three-course supper in one of the city’s most notable restaurants. The Supper will take place at Al Fassia, which is an all-female, family-run establishment with an opulent but classic Moroccan atmosphere.

*Advance booking is required. For last minute availability, please email moreinfo@thetravelconvention.com

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

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Get them in the holiday mood.

We help you to give your customers less hassle and more holiday with our wide range of essential extras.

www.holidayextras.com/agents

facebook.com/groups/hxagents

MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

ABTA – The Travel Association

ABTA is a trade association for UK travel agents, tour operators and the wider travel industry. We’re the largest travel trade body, with over 3,900 travel brands in Membership who have a combined pre-pandemic annual UK turnover of £40 billion.

We work closely with our Members to help raise and maintain standards and build a more sustainable travel industry, and provide travellers with advice, guidance and support.

Our Members sign up to a code of conduct and commit to agreed service standards and fair trading. ABTA, together with our Members, helps the public travel with confidence.

Around 70% of consumers would rather book with a travel organisation which is an ABTA Member than with one which is not. www.abta.com

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT

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THE TRAVEL CONVENTION

Meet the team Senior Leadership Team

Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive

Graeme Buck, Director of Communications

Simon Bunce, Director of Legal Affairs

Susan Deer, Director of Industry Relations

Luke Petherbridge, Director of Public Affairs

Carolyn Watson, Director of Finance

Alistair Rowland ABTA Chairman Lizzie Andrews Digital Marketing Manager Claire Biddle Head of Partnerships

Emma Brennan Head of Media and Communications Trudie Clements Director, Lifeline Eve Coburn Head of Events

Ian Hall Head of Travel Insurance Laura Jackson Media and PR Manager Lisa Kingman Senior Financial Protection Manager

Helen Miles Financial Planning and Analysis Manager

Matt Turton Account Director, Events and Partnerships

Carolyn Wincer Commercial Director for Travelife

Stuart Parker Head of Operations

Danny Waine Head of Membership

Carol Rose Senior Sustainability Manager

Chloe Walters Customer Information Manager

Vicki Wolf Head of Education and Career Development

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Headline Partners

Founded in Detroit in 1946, Avis operates from over 5,000 locations in 165 countries worldwide. Avis is a trusted and award-winning brand with a long history of innovation in the car rental industry, and is one of the world’s top brands for customer loyalty, with a commitment to true convenience and exceptional service.

Our partners recognise the importance of selecting a reputable car hire provider to form a crucial part of their benefits package for their customers. To ensure our customers enjoy a truly global service, we explore every opportunity to create and satisfy local demand everywhere we operate, choosing the rental locations most convenient for our customers. This approach has resulted in our exceptional international presence.

Drive with confidence, complete your journey safely with our Avis Safety Pledge. www.avisbudgetgroup.com

Specifically for brands, Global offers a portfolio of over 900 podcasts that are hosted on Global Player that are either wholly created by Global or in partnership with talent that choses to partner with Global.

A fully vetted, brand safe premium podcast network delivering host read and spot advertising opportunities. As a leading entertainment business Global is perfectly poised to supercharge and amplify podcast partnerships across its extensive portfolio of radio brands and outdoor formats. This along with decades of expertise in the live events space and its ever expanding social and digital footprint means that Gobal makes campaigns work far harder and much smarter for travel brands.

As Europe’s largest radio company, Global is home to respected, national market leading media brands broadcasting across the UK on DAB & FM and around the world on Global Player, including Capital, Heart, Classic FM, LBC, LBC News, Global’s Newsroom, Smooth, Radio X, Capital XTRA and Gold.

Global Player allows listeners to enjoy all of Global’s radio brands, award-winning podcasts, and expertly curated playlists, in one place in app, on web and on smart speakers.

Global is also one of the leading Outdoor companies in both the UK & Europe, with over 235,000 sites reaching 95% of the UK population. Global’s extensive and diverse outdoor portfolio encompasses Transport for London’s Underground network, almost all major UK airports including Gatwick, the UK’s largest portfolio of roadside posters and premium digital screens in prime locations, as well as the UK’s largest network of buses including all major cities. @global | @globalplayer | @newsagentspod www.global.com

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GROUP

Working with you and for you as the world reopens ISSUE 2,611

TRAVELWEEKLY.CO.UK

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Splashing out Agents say rising prices are not deterring customers in search of an Easter getaway

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ORANGUTAN CLAN Our guide to seeing primates in the wild

EXPERIENCE THE MOMENT What to expect at this year’s Atas Conference

GENERATION GAME Why millennials could be your next big market

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The MasterChef star shares his love of culinary adventures

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MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

Headline Partners

We’re Intrepid, the world’s largest adventure travel company. For over 30 years we’ve been taking travellers around the globe. It all started in 1989 with two friends who believed travel could be a force for good, both for travellers and the communities they visit.

Today, we run people and planet-friendly small-group adventure tours in 140+ countries.

Spanning a range of themes and styles to cater to our diverse travellers, itineraries have a few things in common – local accommodation, local experiences and legendary local leaders.

Intrepid are also the world’s largest travel B Corp. That means we meet the highest standards of social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. Our travellers have a guarantee we don’t just talk the talk, but walk the walk.

We’re super excited to be here in Morocco with you – it’s a really special place to us. It’s no secret that our local leaders in Morocco are some of the best in the world, and the team in our Marrakech office are dedicated to sharing the beauty of their country with Intrepid travellers.

At Royal Caribbean, we speak the international language of ‘wow!’

Take one look at our 250+ destinations, and thousands of on and off-board experiences, and just try to tell us we haven’t thought of everything. Whether it’s your first time or your fortieth, we’re always striving for new ways to perfect your paradise, wherever we sail.

Your summer 2023 adventure awaits. From colourful Mediterranean coasts to whitewashed seaside Greek villages, the best way to see Europe is with the cruise line voted Best Mainstream Cruise Line for 15 years running. Immerse yourself in ancient Greek cultures and landscapes on the game-changing Odyssey of the Seas. Sample the delights of wine-country wonders throughout France, Spain and Italy onboard Symphony of the Seas. And experience unique itineraries from fjord-filled getaways in Norway to trekking across the Arctic Circle. So what are you waiting for, get ready to embark on the ultimate European adventure in 2023. www.royalcaribbean.com

At Intrepid, our mission is simple: to create positive change through the joy of travel. www.intrepidtravel.com/uk

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN HAPPEN

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THE TRAVEL THE TRAVEL CONVENTION CONVENTION

Headline Partners

Universal Partners FX is the fastest growing FX company in the UK. Universal Partners FX is the fastest growing FX company in the UK. Whilst we work across all industries, we specialise in the travel sector, helping provide solutions to the specific needs of travel agents, airlines and tour operators. With travel businesses having a large volume of foreign transactions to be executed each month, our global payment solutions and risk management tools help add thousands to bottom line profits.

What do we offer?

To help businesses navigate an often volatile currency market, we offer the following products and services: • SWIFT payments that arrive the same working day.

• Mass Payments enabling multiple transactions in 140+ currencies via one simple upload.

• Collection Accounts that enable the receipt of foreign currencies at competitive exchange rates without the need for local bank accounts.

• An Online Platform that enables 24/7 access to your full transaction history as well as live market rates.

• Bespoke hedging strategies put together by a dedicated account manager and a team of analysts.

• A wide ranging FX product suite that takes into consideration your industry, your risk appetite and your financial objectives.

• Credit to facilitate long term forward buying strategies for businesses with larger FX exposures*

*Available only to clients trading over a certain amount and subject to credit check.

Call us on +44 (0) 207 190 9559 to talk to one of our currency experts today. www.upfx.co.uk

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Useful information Sponsored by

Convention App Details of how to download the Convention App, sponsored by Holiday Extras, have been emailed to you. The app will work on iPhone, Android and other smartphone devices and will provide you with an at-a-glance guide to the Convention. It also provides the opportunity to connect with other Convention attendees before, during and after the event, and to submit questions for the panel discussions.

Sponsored by

Badges & lanyards Please wear your badge and lanyard throughout the Convention to confirm that you are a registered delegate.

The organisers have the right to refuse admission to the official events to anyone not wearing a badge. If you misplace your badge, a replacement can be obtained from the Information Desk located located at the booth beside the Royal Ballroom.

Sustainability Delegate items have been created from environmentally friendly materials as part of ABTA’s commitment to implementing sustainable practices.

Dress codes

Business sessions

Welcome Party and Host Party

Business attire

Party wear

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

Thank you ABTA and its Board of Directors would like to thank the following companies and individuals for their contribution towards the success of this year’s Travel Convention:

HOST

HEADLINE PARTNERS

TRADE MEDIA PARTNER

ORGANISERS AND PRODUCERS

CONVENTION ADVISORY PANEL Tim Alderslade, Airlines UK

Jeanette Harper, Avis Budget Group

Martin Alcock, Travel Trade Consultancy

Cat Jordan, Travelzoo

Stuart Baker, GWI

Debbie Marshall, Silver Marketing Association

Ben Bouldin, Royal Caribbean International

Alistair Pritchard, Deloittte

Zina Benchiekh, Intrepid Travel

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

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THE TRAVEL CONVENTION

Discover

THE OCEAN STATE OF MIND The new European luxury lifestyle brand at sea, debuting in May 2023

EXPLORAJOURNEYS.COM | 0800 014 8486 | SUPPORT@EXPLORAJOURNEYS.COM

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MARRAKECH, MOROCCO // 10-12 OCTOBER 2022

Your customers’ travel memories start with you

The customer experience you offer starts with us

Our technology solutions make it easy for your teams to put the customer at the heart of everything they do.

Book a free consultation now: inspiretec.com/ABTA-convention

THE UK TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S FLAGSHIP EVENT: WHERE CONVERSATIONS, CONNECTIONS AND IDEAS HAPPEN

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