The 20th annual GLTS took place at the Birmingham NEC on Thursday 20th October, and visitors, exhibitors and organisers of the Group Leisure & Travel Show 2016 are reporting a landmark year.
The anniversary show was one of the biggest to date, and featured more than 200 exhibitors, as well as the largest coach display area in the exhibition’s history.
The feedback has been very positive, from the spectacular Seminar Theatre line-up to how much business was generated on the day of the event itself.
In fact, the show proved so popular that a number of exhibitors have already confirmed their stands for next year’s show, including Best Western Hotels, Travelsphere, HF Holidays, Lion Hotels and the Royal Mint.
Social media was buzzing about the show and we also asked some of our visitors and exhibitors for their thoughts on the day, too.
Here are just some of their reactions…
“We’ve seen so much interest today; I’m very happy with the visitors. They are genuinely very interested and the show had generated some great leads, which is very helpful.” – Charles Lu, marketing and international tourism manager, Resorts World Birmingham
“I came to look at various stands with connection to cruising. I’ve found those exhibitors; those who have been helpful so far include Hurtigruten and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. Fusion Cruises, who I’ve never heard of before, look like they have plenty to offer, too.” – Ian Plowman, GTO, Ancient and Modern.
“I came to find new trips to offer my members, and I’ve found new group travel firms that I didn’t know about before, like just for groups! I’ve registered with them and will see if I can book some trips with them in the future.” – Vincent Doherty, GTO, Greater Manchester Police Sports & Social Club.
“I personally love the GLTS. I’ve come every year for the last 15 years and it is just amazing. I’ve met so many old friends today, and met new ones. We just have such a great time; I’m just about to find Sharon to book the stand for next year!” – Sylvia Saxon, chair, New Meridian
“The Group Leisure & Travel Show is very good. The exhibitors this year have been very good and so have the seminar speakers – Eric Knowles in particular was wonderful.” – Christine James, GTO, CMJ Group Travel
“The Group Leisure & Travel Show is great for networking and meeting people. It’s been really busy, with a steady stream of enquires.” – Catherine Furnival, communications & marketing manager, Black Country Living Museum
Want to exhibit at the GLTS 2017?
The date has already been set for the Group Leisure & Travel Show 2017, which will take place in Hall 18 of the NEC on Thursday 12th October.
Exhibitors have already started securing their preferred stand positions for what will be the number one exhibition for group travel next year. Visitor registration will open next summer and our blog will continue to publish great posts throughout the year.
If you are interested in exhibiting at or sponsoring the 2017 event call Sharon Yandell on 01908 613323 or email: sharon.y@yandellmedia.com.
