Tourism Breaking News
In a landmark move to boost small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the global travel industry, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched its Together in Travel SME initiative, with VFS Global proudly joining as a Founding Partner. WTTC is the only global body representing the travel and tourism private sector and its numerous industries. Over 200 companies are now represented on the Council, accounting for two-thirds of a trillion US dollars in turnover, equivalent to 30% of the entire sector
Drawing on more than two decades of experience in technological innovation and market expansion, VFS Global is uniquely placed to share its expertise with a broader network of travel businesses. This new programme enables the empowerment of even more SMEs, helping them thrive in an ever-evolving travel ecosystem.
VFS Global will actively support SMEs across its network spanning over 150 countries, recognising their pivotal role in driving innovation, fostering cost-effective growth, and promoting sustainable development within the travel and tourism sector. VFS Global remains committed to empowering SMEs to scale their operations and achieve significant progress, forging new opportunities for sustainable success.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said, “We are delighted to welcome VFS Global as a Founding Partner of Together in Travel. Their invaluable expertise, global network and industry leadership will play a crucial role in shaping this platform, empowering SMEs around the world with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive. By joining forces, we are creating a more resilient and inclusive Travel & Tourism sector, ensuring businesses of all sizes can flourish in the global marketplace. Additionally, we are excited to welcome Andrea Grisdale as Vice Chair—her vast experience and leadership in creating luxury, bespoke travel experiences will be invaluable to this initiative’s success.”
VFS Global encourages partnerships with local enterprises, those owned or operated by women, and businesses representing indigenous communities, thereby broadening its supply chain and advancing inclusive economic development.
Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO, VFS Global Group commented, “VFS Global has been working closely with WTTC since I joined the Executive Committee in 2023, during which time I have witnessed its groundbreaking drive to expand opportunities for its members. The Together in Travel initiative envisions empowering SMEs by providing access to global markets and investment, specialised training programmes, digital transformation tools, and frameworks for sustainable business practices. As a Founding Partner, we are committed to leveraging our global network in over 150 countries to help SMEs thrive and amplify their socio-economic impact. This partnership reaffirms our dedication to supporting inclusive growth of the travel and tourism industry, which remains a significant contributor to the global economy.”
As a Founding Partner of Together in Travel, VFS Global reaffirms its commitment to empowering SMEs worldwide, enabling them to flourish and deepen their contribution to socio-economic growth on a global scale.
The WTTC also announced Andrea Grisdale, Founder and CEO of IC Bellagio, as Vice Chair of its Together in Travel initiative. With over 25 years of experience in crafting bespoke travel experiences, Andrea will lead the initiative’s mission to foster inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability across the travel sector.
