Ep 33 Setting out the ambition and plans for visitor economy of the VisitWest tourism region with Managing Director, Kathryn Davis

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In this festive episode just before Christmas, we have a returning guest, the lovely Kathryn Davis, Managing Director of VisitWest, shedding light on the key aspects of the recently launched Destination Management Plan (DMP).

The VisitWest regional area, including Bristol, Bath, South Gloucestershire, and North Somerset, brings in a staggering £2 billion to the local economy each year from tourism. Proving once again the importance of our industry.

In our conversation Kathryn shares:

• How business has been in 2023 up until September for the region.
• Headlines of the Destination Management Plan, unveiling key growth markets, distinctive themes, and the necessary elements for infrastructure, product development, and skills.
• How towns, villages, and businesses in the wider areas can leverage visitors by aligning with VisitWest's plans outlined in the DMP, launched in November 2023.
• The significance of VisitWest being one of the first Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEP) and how can lead to future opportunities for lobbying and collaboration.
• Her insights into why a tourism tax is not a straight-forward solution to solving the funding gap for destination management.
• A look into what's on the horizon for the region, including upcoming projects and initiatives that will significantly shape the visitor landscape.

I recorded the podcast on 2nd November 2023 a few weeks before the podcast was released so there are future references to openings such as the Bristol Beacon which have come and gone - nothing stands still in this industry!

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and a prosperous 2024!

Further links

https://www.visitwest.co.uk/

https://www.visitwest.co.uk/about-us/destination-management-plan

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This episode is sponsored by Hello Starling.

Hello Starling, is an award-winning Media Planning and Buying agency that specialises in delivering advertising campaigns with great results for visitor attractions and destinations.
They've worked with brands such as Bristol Zoo Project, Visit Shropshire, Visit Conwy, Visit Herefordshire and the National Tourism Office for Poland. If you want to be the centre of attention, visit hellostarling.com today.
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