Los Angeles Tourism marks a significant 25-year partnership with the UK by acknowledging the trade’s vital role in boosting sales.
- The London office was inaugurated in 1999 to oversee relations not only with the UK and Ireland but also Europe and the Middle East.
- Regional vice president Francine Sheridan, who founded the London office, expressed pride in the achievements over the years.
- Senior VP Kathy Smits praised the London office team for their strategic influence across international markets.
- Next month, LA will host a significant event for travel trade professionals and media from the UK and Ireland.
Los Angeles Tourism recently celebrated a 25-year partnership, highlighting the crucial support received from the UK trade in enhancing sales and market reach. Initially opened in 1999, the London office was conceived to manage and strengthen relations with stakeholders in the UK, Ireland, and extend its ambit across Europe and the Middle East. This strategic location enabled a concerted effort towards growing visitor numbers, extending stays, and increasing direct air services from these regions.
Francine Sheridan, who has been pivotal in establishing and nurturing this partnership, reflected on the journey: “I am proud of all we have achieved in the last 25 years, growing visitor numbers, length of stay and direct air service from the UK and Ireland to Los Angeles.” Her comments underscore the success and growth fostered by this long-standing collaboration with the UK travel trade.
The team in London recently saw the appointment of Nadine Agius as a key addition to bolster administration and marketing efforts. Supporting an existing team that includes Travel Trade Director Hayley French and European Communications Manager Lisa Preece, Agius’ role is crucial in maintaining and expanding LA Tourism’s footprint in these pivotal markets.
Kathy Smits, Senior Vice President of Global Tourism Development, congratulated the London office on its sustained efforts and strategic contributions. She acknowledged the importance of employing in-house teams across key international markets, which she described as a cornerstone for effective strategic planning and market penetration.
Anticipating further engagement, Los Angeles Tourism is set to host over 100 travel trade professionals and 50 media from the UK and Ireland next month at a prominent event during US Travel’s IPW. This event is poised to strengthen existing ties and to showcase the regional expertise that the London office brings to their collaborative efforts.
The enduring partnership between Los Angeles Tourism and the UK trade exemplifies a successful collaborative relationship fostering growth and expansion.
