This year, WTM London anticipates a record-breaking number of exhibitors, with a 7% increase from previous years. More than 4,000 exhibitors—including tourism boards, hotel brands, transportation providers, tech companies, associations, and experience-based ventures—will gather at ExCeL for three days of networking and business opportunities. It’s projected that the event will facilitate business deals worth over £2.2 billion.
Data from VisitBritain reveals that international trade show attendees in the UK typically spend an average of £352 per day, which translates to an estimated visitor spend of £71.2 million for this event. Deloitte’s recent analysis further indicates that each £1,000 spent generates an additional £1,800 in direct tourism value, culminating in a substantial £200 million boost from WTM London to the local economy.
Approximately 82% of WTM attendees are international guests, contributing to London’s transport, lodging, and leisure sectors. While 40% of these visitors plan a three-day stay, about 33% will spend at least a week in the city, with 9% extending their visit to nine days or more, further enhancing their economic impact on London.
Juliette Losardo, Exhibitor Director, WTM London, comments: “While the travel trade are busy curating that £2.2billion worth of travel and tourism deals during World Travel Market, we’re proud that WTM also has such a significant impact on our host city of London. The range of accommodation, world-class dining and wealth of attractions the city has to offer, are a real draw for our attendees, many of whom use WTM London as an opportunity to tag on leisure days and, in doing so, boost spend for the economy.”
Tags: Juliette Losardo, WTM London