The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched the Together in Travel small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) initiative, with VFS Global as a Founding Partner.
WTTC represents the travel and tourism private sector, with over 200 companies on its Council, accounting for two-thirds of a trillion US dollars in turnover.
VFS Global, with over two decades of experience in technological innovation and market expansion, is uniquely positioned to share its expertise with a broader network of travel businesses.
The initiative empowers SMEs to thrive in an ever-evolving travel ecosystem and supports them across its network of over 150 countries. VFS Global remains committed to empowering SMEs to scale operations and achieve significant progress.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said, “We are delighted to welcome VFS Global as a Founding Partner of Together in Travel. Their invaluable expertise, global network and industry leadership will play a crucial role in shaping this platform, empowering SMEs around the world with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive. By joining forces, we are creating a more resilient and inclusive Travel & Tourism sector, ensuring businesses of all sizes can flourish in the global marketplace. Additionally, we are excited to welcome Andrea Grisdale as Vice Chair—her vast experience and leadership in creating luxury, bespoke travel experiences will be invaluable to this initiative’s success.”
VFS Global encourages partnerships with local enterprises, those owned or operated by women, and businesses representing indigenous communities, thereby broadening its supply chain and advancing inclusive economic development.
Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO, VFS Global Group commented, “VFS Global has been working closely with WTTC since I joined the Executive Committee in 2023, during which time I have witnessed its groundbreaking drive to expand opportunities for its members. The Together in Travel initiative envisions empowering SMEs by providing access to global markets and investment, specialised training programmes, digital transformation tools, and frameworks for sustainable business practices. As a Founding Partner, we are committed to leveraging our global network in over 150 countries to help SMEs thrive and amplify their socio-economic impact. This partnership reaffirms our dedication to supporting inclusive growth of the travel and tourism industry, which remains a significant contributor to the global economy.”
As a Founding Partner of Together in Travel, VFS Global reaffirms its commitment to empowering SMEs worldwide, enabling them to flourish and deepen their contribution to socio-economic growth on a global scale.
The WTTC also announced Andrea Grisdale, Founder and CEO of IC Bellagio, as Vice Chair of its Together in Travel initiative. With over 25 years of experience in crafting bespoke travel experiences, Andrea will lead the initiative’s mission to foster inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability across the travel sector.
Matthew Upchurch, Vice Chair, Chairman & CEO of Virtuoso, added: “The Together in Travel initiative, which I am proud to have spearheaded in my WTTC role, represents a transformative effort to support critical small to medium enterprises. By joining forces with an outstanding group of high-profile WTTC member founding partners, we are providing these businesses with the tools, resources, and opportunities necessary to not only survive but thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive market.”
Andrea Grisdale, Founder & CEO of IC Bellagio said: “I am deeply honoured to serve as Vice Chair of the Together in Travel initiative. This programme is a powerful opportunity to empower small and medium enterprises within the travel sector, providing them with the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive in an ever-evolving industry. By fostering inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability, we can help these businesses not only navigate today’s challenges but also shape a more dynamic and sustainable future for global travel. Together, we are setting the stage for long-term growth and positive transformation across the entire travel ecosystem.”
The Together in Travel initiative provides SMEs with vital resources, including:
- Access to global markets and investment opportunities
- Specialised training programmes
- Digital transformation tools
- Sustainable business practice frameworks
The partnership brings together diverse expertise from across the travel and hospitality sectors. Accor and Red Carnation Hotels contribute their deep hospitality experience, while MSC Cruises brings unparalleled cruise expertise. Virtuoso, Hilton, and Abercrombie & Kent Group offer extensive luxury travel knowledge. Microsoft and Trip.com provide cutting-edge technological innovation, ensuring a seamless experience for travellers. OMRAN and Diriyah Gate offer invaluable insights into destination development. VFS Global and FINN Partners complete the ecosystem, offering visa services and marketing communications support.
