WTTC’s New Platform Boosts Small and Medium Travel Enterprises Globally

Empowering Travel and Tourism SMEs Worldwide

The travel and tourism industry thrives on a vibrant network of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which make up around 80% of the global community. Recognizing their critical role, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has introduced the Together in Travel platform—a dedicated initiative created to support SMEs operating in the tourism sector worldwide.

Support at a Glance: What Together in Travel Offers

Launched during the WTTC 2024 Global Summit held in Perth, Western Australia, the platform provides practical strategies and resources tailored to help SMEs not just survive but flourish throughout the year. These tools aim to future-proof tourism businesses by enabling them to adapt to ever-changing market demands and economic landscapes, ultimately fostering meaningful impacts within their communities.

Key Features of the Together in Travel Platform

• Access to practical business strategies: Guidance designed to keep SMEs competitive and resilient in the travel industry.
• Free subscription: SMEs and travel professionals can subscribe at no cost, unlocking a wealth of valuable content and tools.
• Global voice and visibility: A platform where tourism businesses can ensure their perspectives and challenges gain worldwide recognition.

Why SMEs Are Vital to the Tourism Ecosystem

SMEs form the backbone of local tourism economies, bringing unique, authentic experiences to travelers while supporting local employment and cultural preservation. In many destinations, these enterprises offer a hands-on travel experience that large corporations cannot provide, from boutique tours and family-run accommodations to artisan eateries and guides specialized in regional heritage. Through empowering such businesses, the industry nurtures diversified and sustainable tourism development.

Challenges Faced by SMEs in Tourism

Despite their importance, SMEs often operate under resource constraints and face stiff competition from larger corporations with greater market power. The rapid pace of globalisation and digital transformation can be overwhelming, particularly without adequate technological infrastructure or strategic support. Platforms like Together in Travel aim to bridge this gap by delivering knowledge and best practices directly to SMEs, helping them navigate complexities and thrive.

The Impact on Tourism and Travelers Alike

Strengthening SMEs through the Together in Travel initiative naturally benefits tourism destinations by enhancing the quality and diversity of visitor experiences. When local businesses prosper and innovate, travelers gain access to a wider variety of cultural, adventure, and eco-friendly activities—transforming typical vacations into memorable journeys filled with authenticity and discovery.

How Travelers Benefit from SME Empowerment

With more stable and innovative SMEs, tourists enjoy a richer catalog of options—from adventure rafting trips and eco-friendly wildlife safaris to museum tours with live guides and interactive online cultural workshops. Such diversity supports travel experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing, providing meaningful moments and memorable stories from every corner of the globe.

Putting Knowledge into Action: The Value of Personal Experience

While platforms like Together in Travel provide valuable insights and strategies for tourism businesses, the true magic happens when travelers engage firsthand with local operators and experiences. The interplay between well-supported SMEs and inquisitive travelers creates a vibrant ecosystem of exchange that no review or online feedback can fully capture.

At GetExperience.com, travelers can book directly with verified providers offering a broad spectrum of tours and excursions tailored to all tastes and budgets. The platform also assures complete security and convenience, handling payments online with voucher confirmations, and even allows personalized requests so users receive offers matching their specific travel ambitions. Such transparency and flexibility amplify the joy and ease of travel planning, making it more accessible and enjoyable.

Book your Trip at GetExperience.com to connect with authentic travel experiences powered by passionate SMEs worldwide.

Final Thoughts

Recognizing and strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises is fundamental to a thriving, diverse, and resilient travel and tourism industry. The WTTC’s Together in Travel platform stands out as an innovative tool designed to support these businesses by providing essential knowledge, global visibility, and growth opportunities. For travelers, this translates into wider choices and more authentic adventures, from luxury adventure travel experiences to beginner esports coaching sessions, exclusive yacht charters for events, or even online virtual tours.

Whether you’re a traveler seeking unforgettable moments or a tourism professional aiming to stay ahead, embracing the support and services around SME empowerment ensures a brighter journey ahead—for destinations and visitors alike.