The Association of National Tourist Offices and Representatives (ANTOR) has marked its 75th anniversary with a reception at the Spanish Ambassador’s Residence in London. It also featured a UK-wide travel trade roadshow connecting destination tourism boards with industry professionals across four cities. The event brought together more than 100 members, partners and senior travel industry figures to reflect on ANTOR’s role in destination representation and international tourism cooperation since its founding in 1951.
ANTOR roadshow connects destinations with the UK travel trade
As part of the anniversary programme, ANTOR held a multi-city roadshow in Belfast, London, Manchester and Glasgow. The events brought together destination tourism boards and more than 120 travel agents, homeworkers and tour operator teams in each location, providing opportunities for direct industry engagement.
Founded by 10 national tourist offices, ANTOR now represents 50 destinations worldwide and remains the only UK-based association representing overseas tourist boards. New members joining in 2026 include St Helena, Gothenburg, Malawi and South Africa.
The organisation continues to focus on providing a platform for destination marketing organisations to engage with the UK travel trade, media and wider tourism stakeholders, with an emphasis on collaboration and market insight.
Industry views on collaboration and tourism growth
Speaking at the reception, Manuel Butler, ANTOR Chair, said:
“For 75 years, ANTOR has brought destinations together to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and champion tourism as a force for good. ANTOR gives destinations a platform to connect with the UK travel trade and media, gain market insight, share best practice and raise their profile within the industry.”
Industry representatives also reflected on ANTOR’s wider contribution to the travel sector. Chris Rowles, Chair of AITO, highlighted the importance of cooperation between destination bodies and travel businesses in supporting the development of tourism products and services.
Tim Alderslade, chief executive of Airlines UK, also pointed to the importance of collaboration between destinations and aviation stakeholders, particularly in relation to recovery from recent industry disruptions and ongoing sustainability objectives.
ANTOR continues to operate as a membership organisation providing networking events, trade roadshows, research insights and marketing opportunities for destination tourism boards, alongside its growing digital presence across industry platforms.
What do you think about the role of organisations like ANTOR in connecting destination tourism boards with the UK travel trade? Let us know in the comments below!
