Icons of Inclusion by OutThere, proudly hosted by The Dorchester, London

Featured image courtesy of Visit Malta, photography by Martin Perry, OutThere.

Icons of Inclusion is an inspirational, thought leadership, education and networking event, with a focus on diversity and inclusion in tourism. It will showcase best practices in the industry, celebrate role models through lively, informative discussions that will provide the industry with actionable steps they can take to create real change with regard to workplace culture, sales and marketing and operations. This will be explored through the lens of intersectionality while also taking a deep dive into specific diversity dimensions such as race, LGBTQIA+, women, age, indigenous tourism, accessibility, and more – all so we can create a more welcoming and inviting industry for all and build supply and demand side know-how and success.

THIS EVENT IS NOW COMPLETE

For more information and sponsorship for future events, please contact

uwern@outtheremagazine.com

IMAGES FROM 2024

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SUPPORTING PARTNERS & SPONSORS

A CASE FOR GREATER INCLUSION IN LUXURY TRAVEL

The luxury travel industry is one known for its exceptional standards of intuitive hospitality that provides bespoke experiences so that each and every traveller and guest feels more than just welcomed, but that their unique needs are catered for. Given hospitality is, by its very nature, inviting to all, a perception prevails that the industry by default is inclusive of all. However, this narrative overlooks the fact that we may not have the life experience to consider the unique needs of diverse communities, and the fact that unconscious bias can negatively impact the way we think and behave towards others. This is echoed by the sentiments of many people – travellers, guests and those who work in the industry – who feel under-represented because of the way the industry operates.

73% of luxury travellers from diverse backgrounds do not feel that the industry is inclusive of today’s diverse traveller demographics.

Luxury travel marketing and communications are not representative of today’s luxury traveller; nor do travel brands on the whole proactively target, market and promote directly to diverse community groups.

66% do not feel that providers are offering products or services that are tailored, personalised or individual – especially when it comes to the needs of diverse travellers.

Luxury travellers feel that the industry’s products and services are overwhelmingly ‘cookie cutter’ and providers do not invest in the personalisation (or are not concerned about) the needs of individual guests.

62% do not feel that those employed by luxury travel providers are adequately trained to deal with diverse guests.

Luxury travellers from diverse backgrounds do not feel that the staff representing the top luxury travel brands receive adequate training to deal with diverse guests/travellers.

57% do not feel that travel providers are transparent enough about their diversity policies when it comes to non-discrimination or a diverse and socially-conscious supply chain.

Luxury travellers feel that the travel industry is far more about profit than it is about purpose, especially when it comes to the treatment of their employees.

62% of employees in hospitality and tourism feel that there is far more that needs to be done when it comes to levelling the playing field in their companies.

There is a lack of diverse representation, particularly at senior levels in tourism. Employees from diverse backgrounds do not feel that there are equal opportunities for career progression.

Diversity is good for both brand and business

Personalising the brand, sales and marketing, and product experience for diverse travellers leaders to an increase in engagement, loyalty, word-of-mouth and profitability.

71% of travellers from diverse backgrounds will overwhelmingly choose a brand that proactively demonstrates inclusivity.

Travellers are proactively looking for destinations and travel brands that can outwardly demonstrate inclusivity in their outlook, good social responsibility and ones that value diversity and difference.

Allies are also fully supportive of travel providers that promote diversity and inclusion.

On the whole, mainstream travellers are more aware than ever before about corporate governance and will hold travel providers accountable for the way they conduct business. They are putting their money where their values lie, voting with their wallets and they understand that their purchasing power can help change the challenging structures still faced by many today.

*OutThere diversity survey 2023

WHY ATTEND?

Maximise the full potential of diverse travellers
Make inclusion part of your organisation culture
Connect with inclusive travel advisors
Build know-how and best practice
Forge relationships with the leaders in the field
Learn and be inspired by expert speakers
Show commitment to diversity and inclusion

REGISTRATION

GENERAL DELEGATE REGISTRATION
GBP£199 + VAT per person

Registration is for one delegate only and gains you access to the full-day programme.

TICKETING FOR THIS EVENT IS NOW CLOSED

ASPIRE TRAVEL ADVISOR / BGTW MEDIA REGISTRATION
FREE

Aspire and OutThere travel advisor guests can register for free here. Complimentary places only apply to travel advisors/agents, tour operators and members of the travel trade; as well as members of the media including travel editors, journalists, freelance travel writers and content creators. All other attendees are required to purchase a full delegate ticket.