Bookings are coming in thick and fast says the Coach Tourism Association (CTA) for its winter networking event, which will take place in Blackpool from Saturday 23 to Monday 25 November. Over 70 delegates have already booked to attend, the Association says, with places still remaining.
The event is expected to feature an extended programme to provide coach operators and wholesalers with additional support for trip and tour development, including an expanded format that the CTA says will also give industry suppliers improved opportunities to network with coach tourism professionals.
“This year’s CTA Winter Networking is offering a full day of additional business development opportunities to help coach operators, wholesalers, and suppliers increase their commerce,” said CTA Chair Robert Shaw. “With activities running over three days, this will give delegates time to take in the new and classic attractions Blackpool can provide coach groups, alongside the opportunity to network with industry members, old and new.”
Delegates will stay at The Imperial Hotel, and the opening day on Saturday features a classic trip and a special opportunity to visit Blackpool’s Tower Ballroom and enjoy afternoon tea, courtesy of Merlin Attractions. On Saturday afternoon or Sunday, delegates can also visit Merlin Attractions’ Madame Tussauds and Saelife Blackpool as well as the High Jinx circus.
On the Sunday, the CTA will take guests to the National Trust’s Rufford Old Hall near Ormskirk, a Tudor house and garden, home to five centuries of history. Travelling with Bretherton’s Gold Line Tours, lunch will be enjoyed at the Offshore Hotel, Lytham St Annes. The group will then return to experience VisitBlackpool’s Christmas by the Sea where the Blackpool Tower Festival Headland will be transformed into a festive village complete with outdoor skating rink, light installations, and fairground rides.
That evening, visitors will enjoy a reception and networking dinner, including a Showtime with West End star Nicholas Duncan. On the final day of the event, Monday morning provides a Supplier Showcase, giving operators, wholesalers, and suppliers, a more formal opportunity to discuss new trips, tours, and services to the coach tourism sector.
