The largest international business-to-business event dedicated to LGBTQ+ travel and leisure – Proud Experiences – has been launched by Reed Travel Exhibitions.
The inaugural event will take place in London from June 6th-8th this year.
International in flavour and curated to bring buyers and suppliers of travel experiences together through a pre-scheduled appointment system, this event will put the spotlight on a market that now deserves its own attention.
The LGBTQ+ travel industry is both economically significant and resilient, with many studies showing that even in times of downturns the gay community still spends money on their holidays and travel in general.
“As the world’s biggest creator of travel industry events and exhibitions, we were not surprised when research confirmed that it’s time to pay attention to LGBTQ+ markets as they grow exponentially every year.
“Developing this first event which will take place in London, Proud Experiences will bring out the issues, opportunities, solutions and debates that surrounds this demanding sector,” said show director Gareth Baguley.
Dealing with the attitudes, challenges, and opinions that face same sex couples and bisexual/transgender travellers will be at the heart of a master class series of workshops, presentations and debates.
Led by some of the industry’s leading voices, and representatives of the LGBTQ+ travel community every session will be open to buyers and suppliers to participate in and contribute to throughout the event.
The programme of speakers that will soon be announced will represent key sectors that operate in the LGBTQ+ sector including: destinations cruise companies, media, travel buyers and marketing experts.
These industry leaders will cover the key LGBTQ+ essentials, shining a light on the latest trends that are driving growth of the sector that is now valued over $211 billion.
London’s top venues, hotels and clubs will all contribute to the welcome for Proud Experiences, while the area around the Saatchi Gallery known as Duke of York Square, will also join in.