The annual meeting of a group that represents over 600 tourism and hospitality businesses across Mid Wales saw speakers stressing the importance of the industry.
One of the main points of discussion at the annual general meeting of MWT Cymru, held at Hafan yr Afon, Newtown on Tuesday, December 5, was the impact that Welsh Government legislation could have on the industry.
MWT Cymru chairman Rowland Rees-Evans, chief executive Val Hawkins, MBE, and Wales Tourism Alliance chairman Suzy Davies all emphasised what they felt was a need for tourism and hospitality businesses to stay united.
Mrs Hawkins said: “We are here to sell Mid Wales region as a must-visit destination. We are experienced at working at the interface of the private and public sectors and it’s extremely important that we build on that collaborative approach.”
“In these uncertain times, the unity and resilience of our business community are more critical than ever. Together, we will navigate these challenges and ensure that Mid Wales continues to shine as a leading destination.”
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Her speech also focussed on encouraging businesses to collaborate with MWT Cymru and Visit Wales, as she stated she believed it would be a route to attract more international visitors to Mid Wales through offering “unique experiences” and to focus sharply on customer service and repeat business.
Wales Tourism Alliance chairman Suzie Davies echoed these comments, saying: “We need to stand together with a united voice and avoid any sense of isolation when representing the tourism industry. What we are doing collectively is working.”
“There are positive signs that the Welsh Government is beginning to listen to the WTA and other industry leaders’ concerns about the cumulative impact of new legislation.”
MWT chairman Rowland Rees-Evans added: “Without MWT Cymru, tourism and hospitality businesses in Mid Wales would not have a voice,” he said. “We punch way above our weight in terms of the work we do on behalf of the industry and it’s really important that tourism businesses become members if they want to have an influence.”
Also at the meeting, MWT Cymru re-elected Greg Loweth, business development manager at The Metropole Hotel and Llandrindod Wells Spa, as a Powys trade director. He was joined on the board by Shane Logan, general manager of Powis Castle and Garden, Welshpool.
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