Tourism NI hosts UKinbound delegation

The three-day event programme included a familiarisation trip, welcome dinner, a business-to-business workshop with local tourism businesses and a networking lunch.

The only trade association in the UK dedicated to inbound tourism, UKinbound has more than 400 members spanning the full spectrum of inbound tourism sectors including tour operators and destination management companies.  

In 2023, the association held its annual convention in Belfast. More than 350 operators attended the gathering with a number taking part in familiarisation trips.

Building on the success of that conference, this Discover Programme is a result of the continuing collaboration between Tourism Northern Ireland, Tourism Ireland and
UKinbound.

The Discover Programme began this week with a familiarisation trip, with delegates enjoying the Belfast Food Tour and an evening at McConnell’s Distillery, a new visitor experience based at Crumlin Road Gaol.

The group also had the opportunity to explore the stunning Causeway Coast with visits to Glenarm Castle and the Giant’s Causeway.

This trip gave the operators a chance to sample some of the region’s world-class culture, food, experiences and accommodation.

On Monday night, the group gathered for a welcome dinner at Titanic Hotel in Belfast. Ellvena Graham, Tourism Northern Ireland Board Chair, Joss Croft, CEO of Ukinbound,  and Aisling McDermott, Head of Global Partnerships at Tourism Ireland, were among those who addressed those gathered.

Yesterday, a business-to-business workshop at the ICC in Belfast gave 25 local tourism business representatives the opportunity to meet and do business with the Ukinbound buyers.

The workshop gave local industry the chance to strengthen connections and foster long term partnerships with the influential buyers.

Naomi Waite, Director of Marketing at Tourism Northern Ireland, said: “Tourism NI is delighted to continue our partnership with Ukinbound.

“Hosting the Discover Programme in Northern Ireland was a valuable opportunity to continue to nurture relationships with Ukinbound buyers and showcase our world-class destination and all it offers.

“It also provides our industry the chance to strengthen connections and develop inbound business from these buyers.

“Hosting the programme also demonstrates the benefits collaboration can bring and our commitment to supporting the travel trade and providing them with new and exciting experiences and offers from right around Northern Ireland.

“We also thank our colleagues in Tourism Ireland for helping to make this visit happen.”

Joss Croft, CEO of Ukinbound, said: “Northern Ireland has so much to offer international visitors.

“The trip allowed our buyers to develop new business relationships and provided them with the knowledge and connections they need to entice more international visitors to Northern Ireland.

“It was a pleasure working with Tourism Northern Ireland and Tourism Ireland, and we look forward to continuing our collaborative work.”