The tourism sector continues to drive high quality experiences (NPS scores are up BVA BDRC), despite recruitment being a major challenge (18% vacancies in the tourism sector), particularly front of house where often candidates lack even the essential skills. There is definitely a need to raise the profile of the broad career options available in the sector.

The UK is expensive to visit for international audiences (visas, VAT) via Joss Croft OBE and Richard Toomer. The UK Government have their work cut out to support one of the UK's biggest sectors (revenue and employers) - Chris Bryant (Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism) expressed his commitment to a far closer working relationship with the sector (he'd like to see 'more spice'!) - watch this space.

A lot of reference to AI and Data (which conference in 2024 doesn't?) and using it effectively to be more productive, help solve problems and help make better decisions. I did get a sense that many organisations find AI all rather overwhelming.

I enjoyed the The Digital Customer Life Cycle, (via Neil Lewin and Komal Helyer),with 3 simple objectives: Inspire, Convert, Engage - there are still missed opportunities to connect the visitor touch points and delight them at every step of the way (hint - with greater storytelling & personalisation, what ATS does best!).

Great to see Museums represented - an interview with the enthusiastic Pete Chambers BEM - his passion for the Coventry Music Museum was infectious!

It was interesting to hear about the challenge / opportunity for providing EV Charging at attractions (via RAW Charging) - expect 25% of car parks to have EV vehicles over the next 3-5 years.

The closing 'Power Panel' hosted by Bernard Donoghue OBE with Rebecca Foy, Amy Akino-Wittering and Simon Presswell, MBA covered two very different new visitor attractions aimed at younger audiences (Young V&A and Lilidorei) - plus a fascinating insight into what happens when you say 'yes, sure!' to 10 Downing street when asked if Bletchley Park Trust would host the first Global AI summit.

All in all, great variety and fascinating insights.