The Association of Touring and Adventure Suppliers (Atas) has announced the theme for its upcoming annual conference: ‘Connect.’ This theme highlights the importance of building connections within the industry.
Set to take place at the Royal Armouries in Leeds on October 15-16, the conference aims to foster relationships among operators, travel agents, and local communities. Attendees can look forward to an engaging programme filled with networking events, insightful sessions, and valuable workshops.
Conference Theme and Objectives
The central theme of ‘Connect’ was carefully chosen by the Atas board to encapsulate several key objectives. ‘This theme was chosen to reflect the vital role connections play in our industry,’ stated Claire Brighton, Atas director. The conference seeks to facilitate stronger ties between tour operators, associate members, and travel agents, whether they are seasoned participants or newcomers to the sector.
Emphasising the power of connection, the event will showcase how the touring and adventure sector brings people together. The aim is to highlight how these experiences foster lifelong friendships and create meaningful connections with destinations and local communities.
Event Highlights and Activities
Attendees will be treated to a dynamic two-day schedule including conference sessions, networking opportunities, and social events. The programme features a full day of sessions on October 16, alongside two evening social gatherings.
One of the anticipated highlights is the prestigious Atas awards ceremony. This annual event celebrates excellence within the sector, recognising outstanding contributions and achievements. Additionally, the first afternoon will host a newly introduced Selling Skills workshop tailored to equip agents of all experience levels with essential techniques.
Special Workshops and New Sessions
The introduction of the Selling Skills workshop represents Atas’s commitment to continuous professional development. This new feature adapts from last year’s successful ‘New to’ session, expanding its focus to accommodate agents at varying stages of expertise.
This workshop aims to enhance participants’ sales capabilities by providing hands-on training and expert insights. Through interactive sessions, attendees will gain practical skills to drive business success.
Accommodation and Venue Details
Conference attendees visiting Leeds will be accommodated at The Leonardo Hotel, conveniently situated a short distance from the Royal Armouries venue. This location allows for easy access to the conference site, ensuring participants make the most of the events scheduled.
The choice of Leeds for this year’s venue reflects Atas’s intention to utilise prominent and historically significant locations, enhancing the overall experience of the conference.
Networking and Community Engagement
A core benefit of this conference theme is the emphasis on networking. Atas recognises the value of personal interactions in strengthening business relationships and expanding industry knowledge. The event is designed to foster these crucial connections.
Throughout the conference, there will be abundant opportunities for one-on-one interactions, group discussions, and informal networking, all aimed at enabling attendees to connect directly with peers across the industry.
Particular attention is given to connecting attendees with local communities. Through various planned activities, participants will engage with local culture, promoting sustainable tourism and mutual understanding.
Preview of Conference Speakers
Although specifics regarding conference speakers are yet to be released, attendees can anticipate a lineup of expert voices from across the travel and tourism sector. These speakers will address pertinent issues and share insights, reflecting the diverse nature of the industry.
The inclusion of a wide range of speakers aligns with Atas’s commitment to providing a platform for varied perspectives, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the current travel landscape.
Registration and Further Details
Details regarding registration procedures and specific session information are pending release. Interested parties are encouraged to keep an eye on official communication channels for updates.
The Atas annual conference themed ‘Connect’ promises to be an enriching event for all participants. By prioritising networking and skill development, the conference aims to strengthen the community within the touring and adventure travel sector.
Attendees will leave with not only enhanced professional skills but also meaningful connections that will endure beyond the two-day event.
