The Government is backing the power of data analytics to boost British tourism, as part of plans to increase employment in the sector and get in shape for a predicted boom in visitor numbers.
At the heart of the programme is the creation of a new Tourism Data Hub, designed to revolutionise the way data is used by the sector. The hub will collate regularly updated information, showing the latest trends and spends, allowing businesses to better target overseas visitors.
It will also support the creation of an additional 10,000 apprenticeships for people building their careers in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
According to Government figures, around 38 million people visited the UK last year, contributing £23 billion to the economy. By 2025, it has been forecast that there will be an additional 9 million visitors to the UK.
The new tourism deal commits to building an additional 130,000 hotel rooms to respond to the increased demand for infrastructure.
It also outlines the Government’s ambitions for the UK to become the most accessible destination for disabled visitors, through improvement of disabled facilities and access to destinations across the country.
Prime Minister Theresa May said: "As one of the most visited countries in the world, the UK is a global leader in international tourism and it is crucial that we remain competitive to meet growing demands.
"The UK’s first ever tourism sector deal will ensure that we continue to innovate, boost connectivity and economic productivity, expand career pathways and break down barriers for visitors with disabilities. This deal recognises the important role tourism plays, and will continue to play, in showcasing what our great country has to offer."
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