WTTC announces Andrea Grisdale as new Vice Chair for ‘Together in Travel’ initiative
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced Andrea Grisdale, Founder and CEO of IC Bellagio, as Vice Chair of its new initiative, Together in Travel, alongside 13 founding partners. This initiative aims to empower small to medium enterprises (SMEs) in the global travel industry by providing access to global markets, investment opportunities, specialised training, digital transformation tools, and sustainable business frameworks.
Grisdale, who has over 25 years of experience in luxury travel, will lead efforts to promote inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability within the sector. She said, “ I am deeply honoured to serve as Vice Chair of the 'Together in Travel' initiative. This programme is a powerful opportunity to empower small and medium enterprises within the travel sector, providing them with the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive in an ever-evolving industry. By fostering inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability, we can help these businesses not only navigate today's challenges but also shape a more dynamic and sustainable future for global travel. Together, we are setting the stage for long-term growth and positive transformation across the entire travel ecosystem."
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The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced Andrea Grisdale, Founder and CEO of IC Bellagio, as Vice Chair of its new initiative, Together in Travel, alongside 13 founding partners. This initiative aims to empower small to medium enterprises (SMEs) in the global travel industry by providing access to global markets, investment opportunities, specialised training, digital transformation tools, and sustainable business frameworks.
Grisdale, who has over 25 years of experience in luxury travel, will lead efforts to promote inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability within the sector. She said, “ I am deeply honoured to serve as Vice Chair of the 'Together in Travel' initiative. This programme is a powerful opportunity to empower small and medium enterprises within the travel sector, providing them with the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive in an ever-evolving industry. By fostering inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability, we can help these businesses not only navigate today's challenges but also shape a more dynamic and sustainable future for global travel. Together, we are setting the stage for long-term growth and positive transformation across the entire travel ecosystem."
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said, "Small businesses are the backbone of Travel & Tourism and Together in Travel represents an unprecedented collaboration that will equip SMEs with essential tools for success in our evolving global landscape. Under Andrea Grisdale's leadership, whose commitment to sustainable tourism is exemplary, this initiative will catalyse transformative growth across our sector."
The initiative is supported by leading organisations across travel and hospitality, including Accor, Hilton, MSC Cruises, Microsoft, Trip.com Group, Virtuoso, and Abercrombie & Kent Group. These partners bring expertise in luxury hospitality, technology, adventure tourism, and destination development, ensuring a comprehensive support system for SMEs.
The collaboration represents a major step towards a more inclusive and sustainable travel industry, fostering innovation and long-term growth for small businesses worldwide.
