UKinbound has released results from its latest Business Barometer members survey, demonstrating that bookings, visitor numbers and revenue yield, are on-par or higher than 12 months ago. However, confidence in future bookings and revenue is the lowest it has been since September 2016.
The findings, compiled by Qa Research, relate to the months of July and August 2017. Some 81% of respondents stated that revenue yield had either increased or stayed the same compared to 2016.
Comparatively, 72% of respondents experienced bookings/visitor numbers that were similar or higher than July and August last year. When analysing data from tour operator partners this figure increased to 75%. Members stated that the weakness of the pound was the main reason behind the growth.
UKinbound, chief executive officer, Deirdre Wells OBE commented: “It’s encouraging to hear from members that July and August were positive months with regards to visitor numbers, bookings and revenue. However I am concerned that confidence is low amongst our members about future business.
“We need continued investment in tourism, a strong narrative promoting the UK as a welcoming destination, an immigration and visa system that’s flexible to business needs and access to a skilled workforce. These issues need to be addressed to ensure that our members’ businesses remain successful and we will continue to work with Government to ensure they are raised and addressed at all levels.
The survey also showed that China and USA remain the top growth markets, while Germany replaced France as the main declining market.
UKinbound is a leading trade association that represents nearly 400 of the country’s key tourism businesses.
