There was more than a touch of sadness when it was announced that the British Travel Trade Fair (BTTF) was moving to London in 2009 after more than 20 years at the NEC in Birmingham.

I have attended every year as an exhibitor since 1986, with Pontins, Butlins and more recently Grand UK Holidays.

Originally named MOOT, the BTTF has become a key business to business venue for the travel trade and while the footfall may have declined in recent years it has continued to provide an influential platform for contracting and business development for wholesalers, hotels and attractions alike.

I have always embraced change but in this instance the new event organisers appear to have an agenda that may well alienate many of the exhibitors who have supported this ‘trade show’ over the past 20 or more years.

Before MOOT/BTTF, there was nowhere significant for the domestic travel trade to gather and it has been the cornerstone for many a new venture over the years.

The impression we have been left with is that the exhibition will now run over four days, instead of two, with three of the days open to the public.

Not only did I find many of the exhibitors unhappy with yet another show going to London, but I also saw the backlash from the wholesalers – who are one of the main reasons for many trade visitors coming to BTTF – as they have no interest in dealing with the public as their market is purely trade.

By all accounts it looks like the new ethos is aimed at taking the show away from its trade roots and being more of a public event for the tourist boards with the trade ‘on the side’ so to speak.

What I find most galling is that there has been no dialogue or consultation with the people who have supported this event over the years and this is not the best example to set of the trade working together hand in hand for our British economy.

I have no doubt that some people will be happy with these changes, but for the coach and group travel markets they in general want a trade only show and, from the limited information so far made available, it looks like there may be further changes ahead as the opportunity still exists for a trade only show outside of London.

What a shame that the BTTF’s last show in Birmingham should be allowed to end on such a sour note filled with doubt and disappointment.

On a positive note, the BTTF has been responsible for opening up and building new markets, new innovations and new businesses and for that alone it deserves our recognition and appreciation.

Harold Burke
Director
UK Holiday Group, Norfolk