The London World Travel Market (WTM) exhibition is now just around the corner. As one of the most highly-regarded travel sector trade shows in the world, WTM stands strong as one of the top trade show events in London. Imagine hundreds of gateways into luxurious travel destinations like Greece, Dubai, and Thailand, all within walking distance under one roof!
No matter whether you’re an agency marketing executive or a renowned hotelier, this tropical heaven of an exhibition offers B2B exhibitors an abundance of business opportunities. With more than 40,000 trade professionals attending London’s biggest exhibition venue, there’s no better way to put your brand or country out there for the global travel industry to see.
So, without further delay, pack your bags and prepare for take-off as we unpack the key details of WTM London in our article below.
Dates and venue
WTM London typically occurs toward the end of the calendar year around November; in 2024 it is slated for 5 to 7 November. The event is held at ExCeL London, the largest trade show venue in London that features up to 100,000 square metres of exhibition space. ADNEC Group, the owners of ExCeL, maintain the venue to a high standard and are in the latter stages of upgrading the facility.
The ExCeL is highly accessible using London’s underground rail system.
Event outline and history
As one of the longest-running travel market trade show events, WTM London has a fascinating history. The first edition was held in 1980 and opened amidst some prestige thanks to the presence of the Duke of Kent and the then Miss World titleholder, Kimberly Santos. In those early days, the show was held at the London Olympia and saw 9,000 guests in attendance. In 1992, the rapidly growing event was moved to the former Earls Court complex where it later celebrated its 21st birthday with a special event in 2000. A second and final move took place in 2002 to the ExCeL in East London, where the London WTM operates today.
What to expect from the WTM London exhibition
A tantalising variety of industry exhibitors are present at each WTM London trade show; they broadly cover the international tourism sector. As a result, event attendees include government officials and media personnel in addition to public trade professionals.
The trade show floor is organised by continent to make navigation simple.
Products and Services
The most awe-inspiring exhibitors are usually those that represent official tourism agencies from exciting destinations around the world, like Abu Dhabi, Indonesia, and Botswana. They’re usually joined by other major players in the global tourism sector, like hotel brands, major airlines, resorts, tour providers, and travel agencies.
Matchmaking service
To keep networking as seamless as possible, a bespoke matchmaking service is offered to buyers to connect them with the right exhibitors and suppliers who match their needs. It’s an unbeatable opportunity for both parties to maximise their participation in the show.
Sustainability focus
To round things off, many attendees will be pleased to know WTM London places special emphasis on sustainability and environmentally friendly tourism. For instance, special World Responsible Tourism-related education programmes have been integrated into the show’s conference scheme. Meanwhile, the organisers have also committed to reducing emissions at each WTM event by introducing renewable energy sources to power the trade show.
WTM London: the world at your fingertips
There’s no better gateway to the world travel market than WTM London, where a bustling exhibition floor full of jaw-dropping destinations and experiences meets a fulfilling education programme. Overall, it’s a must-attend for anyone in the industry and features world-class exhibitors and buyers from near and far.
Still, standing out at larger trade events like World Travel Market London can be a daunting task. At Booth Exhibits™, we aim to take the weight off your shoulders and make your exhibition process simple without compromising on impact. With years of experience as an exhibition stand builder in London, we’re prepared to do whatever it takes to bring you business at an event like WTM.
Where is the WTM in London?
The WTM in London usually happens at the ExCeL London, located in Newham in East London.
What is the full meaning of WTM?
WTM stands for “World Travel Market”.
What is the purpose of the World Travel Market?
The World Travel Market is a major international exhibition dedicated to serving the global travel and tourism trade.
Where is the WTM London 2024?
The 2024 WTM London will take place at the ExCeL London.
