WTTC Launches Together in Travel to Empower SMEs with VFS Global as Founding Partner

In a bid to strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the global travel and tourism sector, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has introduced its Together in Travel SME initiative, with VFS Global as a Founding Partner.

WTTC, the leading global body for the private travel and tourism sector, represents over 200 companies, generating two-thirds of a trillion US dollars in turnover—roughly 30% of the industry’s total revenue. SMEs, crucial for innovation, cost-effective growth, and sustainability, stand to benefit significantly from the initiative’s resources.

VFS Global, leveraging over 20 years of expertise in technological innovation and market expansion, will support SMEs across its network in more than 150 countries. The company aims to help these businesses scale, seize opportunities, and achieve sustainable success.

VFS Global prioritizes partnerships with local enterprises, women-led businesses, and indigenous communities, fostering inclusive economic development and diversifying its supply chain.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, underscored the partnership’s value: “Welcoming VFS Global as a Founding Partner of Together in Travel is a milestone. Their global reach and leadership will empower SMEs with essential tools, knowledge, and opportunities. Andrea Grisdale’s appointment as Vice Chair, with her luxury travel expertise, further strengthens the initiative.”

Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO of VFS Global Group, emphasized the initiative’s impact noting that supporting SMEs aligns with their commitment to inclusive growth.

“Through our network in over 150 countries, we will help these businesses access global markets, training, digital tools, and sustainable practices, amplifying their socio-economic contributions.”

Andrea Grisdale, Founder and CEO of IC Bellagio and newly appointed Vice Chair, added: “Serving as Vice Chair is an honor. Equipping SMEs with resources to navigate challenges and build a sustainable future will transform the travel sector.”

Matthew Upchurch, WTTC Vice Chair and CEO of Virtuoso, who led the initiative’s development, stated: “Uniting WTTC members to support SMEs is transformative. Providing these businesses with tools and opportunities ensures their success in a competitive market.”

Together in Travel offers SMEs access to global markets, investment opportunities, specialized training, digital transformation tools, and sustainable business frameworks. These resources aim to enhance competitiveness and resilience in a dynamic industry.

The initiative unites diverse industry leaders. Accor and Red Carnation Hotels contribute hospitality expertise, while MSC Cruises provides cruise industry insights. Virtuoso, Hilton, and Abercrombie & Kent Group offer luxury travel knowledge.

Microsoft and Trip.com drive technological innovation, while OMRAN and Diriyah Gate share destination development expertise. VFS Global and FINN Partners provide visa services and marketing support, creating a comprehensive support system for SMEs.
Fostering innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability, Together in Travel represents a pivotal step toward a brighter future for global travel and tourism.

VFS Global’s role as a Founding Partner reinforces its commitment to empowering SMEs, enabling them to thrive and contribute to socio-economic growth worldwide.

As the travel industry evolves, the initiative lays the foundation for a more equitable, dynamic, and sustainable ecosystem, equipping businesses to overcome challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.