Sixteen industry partners will join VisitBritain on the Britain stand at this year’s World Travel Market thanks to a new partnership with the British Incoming Tour Operators Association (BITOA) announced today.

Attractions, accommodation providers and tour operators will take meetings with international travel buyers under the Britain banner for the first time at the event, which celebrates 25 years from 8 - 11 November at ExCeL in London’s Docklands. A dozen partners have already confirmed – including De Vere Hotels, Evan Evans Tours, Hilton Hotels, Hoseasons and Interopa Holidays – and will be joined by a number of England’s regional tourism bodies.

Stephen Dowd, BITOA’s chief executive, said:

“BITOA members deliver the promise of VisitBritain’s marketing campaigns. We are therefore delighted to be working closely with VisitBritain to ensure that the international buyers at WTM gain a deeper understanding of the richness and diversity of the UK’s tourism product.”

As usual, the Britain stand will also reflect the depth, heart and vitality of all that Britain has to offer international visitors under three core themes: Arts and Culture, Food and Drink, Relaxation and Good Living. A number of events, receptions and launches planned for the event are being kept under wraps for now, but are expected to include announcements of new ways for the industry to work with VisitBritain and links to the London 2012 bid.

Tom Wright, VisitBritain’s chief executive, added:

“World Travel Market represents a prime opportunity for us to raise the profile of Britain in the eyes of 23,500 buyers from around the UK and 200 other countries. Our partnership with BITOA will enable us to demonstrate even more clearly Britain’s status as a world-class destination with much to offer international visitors.”

David Moyser, Chief Executive at Heart of England Tourism, who will join the Britain stand this year, added:

“We are delighted to be a major supporter of the national Enjoy England campaign, and to be part of the Britain stand at World Travel Market this year.

The Heart of England has outstanding products associated with the core Britain themes of arts and culture, food and drink and relaxation and good living. We look forward to working with VisitBritain, BITOA and our industry partners to showcase the best of England and the best of the Heart of England at World Travel Market 2004.”