The UK's travel industry is set for a boost as the Government
unveils plans to cut red tape as part of its Plan for Change, and
make it easier for businesses to offer package deals, giving
consumers better value and supporting growth across the tourism
sector.
The measures being looked at in a consultation, could
remove barriers that currently prevent small businesses including
B&Bs and restaurants from working together to create tailored
UK holiday experiences. The measures if implemented, could boost
the travel sector and help grow the staycation economy right
across the country.
The proposals will support the domestic travel market to go
for growth by giving families and travellers more affordable,
flexible, and convenient options for their staycations.
The proposed measures will make it easier for businesses to
bundle offers together, helping hotels, attractions, and
restaurants team up to provide exclusive deals.
- For example, a B&B in the Lake District that may not be
able to offer dinner, could team up with a nearby restaurant or
pub to offer a discount on an evening meal when purchased
together with the room booking.
- Or a campsite in Cornwall could be able to offer discounts
and deals for the local surf school.
- But it could also apply to trips in towns and cities too,
with tourists staying in a London-based hotel could offer
discounted show tickets when they refer a consumer who has booked
a room with them.
It will aim to support businesses through measures like setting a
time limit for third parties to provide redress to organisers and
improving the flexibility of insolvency protection provisions for
non-flight packages.
For UK holidaymakers, these changes will give families better
staycation options to help them plan summer holidays. Instead of
booking everything separately, these measures would make it
easier for consumers to access tailored packages that combine
great accommodation with exciting local experiences.
Minister for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets,
, said:
“Right now, a British hotel, local attraction, and restaurant
can't offer a joint deal without jumping through regulatory hoops
- and that's frankly ridiculous. As part of our Plan for Change,
we're fixing that.
“These common-sense changes will help small businesses,
boost British tourism, and give families more choice when booking
a staycation. More options, better value, and a stronger UK
economy.”
The 12 week consultation will seek input from businesses
and industry leaders on how best to implement these reforms.
