Numbers attending this year’s World Travel Market were down by eight per cent over 2008’s event.
A total of 45,904 people went to the four-day exhibition in London.
Un-audited figures show 24,454 Meridian Club and trade visitors attended WTM, down 7.7% on last year but ahead of 2007’s level of 23,721.
The number of exhibitor invitees increased to 8,062 and international media numbers increased by 12% to 2,841.
The number of ministers and aides attending the UNWTO Ministers’ Summit at the show increased by 18% to 147.
Exhibition director Craig Moyes said: “Delivering senior buyers to exhibitors to conduct business, identify new markets and network is what World Travel Market is all about.
“Exhibitors want to meet and discuss with buyers that have verified and significant purchasing authority, so I am delighted we have achieved this important strategic objective.
“Early feedback about the extent of business conducted during the event has been extremely encouraging.
“In the current economic climate WTM 2009 has posted solid attendance figures, which demonstrate the important role it plays within the travel and tourism industry.”
by Phil Davies
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