Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Activity 1.10
Do some research to fi nd out how your local authority
is involved in tourism, i.e. what is the structure, what
marketing does it carry out, what role does it play in
tourism development, etc. Make a presentation to
the rest of your group on your fi ndings.
This activity is designed to provide evidence for P2.
Trade associations
Trade associations are found in all areas of the
economy, from the motor industry to the brewing
sector. They are set up to represent the interests of
companies operating in particular industry sectors and
to make sure that the voice of their sector is heard.
Many trade associations draw up codes of conduct
which lay down the minimum standards under which
member companies are expected to conduct their
everyday business with customers and suppliers. Key
trade associations in travel and tourism are ABTA
(see case study in Unit 9 on page 311), the Tourism
Alliance, AITO (see case study below), UKInbound,
the British Hospitality Association, the Confederation
of Passenger Transport UK and the Federation of Tour
Operators (FTO). They provide advice and support for
their members, and lobby central, local and European
government to get a better deal for their member
companies on issues such as taxation, regulations and
funding.
Salisbury TIC
Regardless of how tourism development is organised
within a particular local council, it is clear that it will
remain a vital and increasing part of the work of local
authorities in the future.
CASE STUDY
AITO (the Assoc
i
ation of
Independent Tour Operators)
Introduction
AITO is a trade organisation representing over 15
0
of Britain's specialist tour operators. Its members are
independent companies, most of them owner-man
a
g
e
d, specialising in particular destinations or types of
