Dean Russell met with UKinbound at the Leonardo Hotel in Watford to discuss the significance of inbound tourism for the local economy and community. The visit aimed to provide him with first-hand experience of the invaluable contributions made by inbound tourism to Watford and the wider region, and was organised in light of English Tourism Week, which took place in March
UKinbound was established in 1977 and stands as the UK's sole trade association dedicated to inbound tourism, an industry which is really important to the nation's economy. UKinbound members include tour operators, attractions, accommodation providers, hospitality venues and service providers located across all four corners of the country.
Dean enjoyed the tour of the hotel had the opportunity to talk to staff about their roles within the business.
Following the visit, Dean said, "I was pleased to have the opportunity to visit Leonardo Hotel in Watford and talk with UKinbound to understand more about the huge value that inbound tourism brings to our local economy. Hotels play a key role in shaping Watford as a vibrant destination for tourists and businesses alike, whilst also contributing to job creation and economic growth’.
Joss Croft OBE, CEO of UKinbound said:
“I was delighted to meet with Dean and our member Leonardo Hotels today to discuss the immense value and importance of inbound tourism (international visitors) to Watford’s local economy and community, which is home to some of the UK’s must-visit tourism attractions and employs over a thousand people.
We expect our industry to exceed 2019 levels of growth this year, and we look forward to continuing the positive partnership the industry has with government, to ensure inbound tourism across England can achieve its full potential.”
Louisa Fortune-Terrell, National Account Director at Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland said:
“ We were so pleased to have the opportunity to host our local MP Dean Russell at our Hotel in Watford today, alongside UKinbound. It was fantastic to be able to give him a tour of our premises which are situated right in the heart of Watford, introduce him to our staff and discuss some of the issues impacting our work and the wider inbound tourism industry. This visit is timely, taking place just a few weeks after English Tourism Week and was an important chance to celebrate our vibrant sector and the cultural and economic value of English tourism.”
