The Current State of Inclusivity in the Travel Industry
01
Lack of Representation
Minoritised groups are underrepresented in the travel industry, limiting their opportunities for growth and advancement.
02
Challenges Faced
The industry struggles with the underrepresentation of diverse voices, lack of inclusivity in travel experiences, and discrimination in hiring and promotions.
The Lack of Diversity Equity & Inclusion (DEI) in the UK Travel Industry:
A recent report by PwC found that the UK travel industry is lagging behind other sectors in terms of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI). The report found that only 16% of travel companies have a dedicated DEI strategy, and only 30% have set targets for improving DEI in their workforce.
The lack of DEI in the UK travel industry is a problem for both businesses and consumers.
For businesses, a lack of DEI can lead to a number of problems, including:
Reduced Innovation and Creativity
A diverse workforce is more likely to come up with new ideas and solutions.
Increased Turnover and Absenteeism
Employees from underrepresented groups are more likely to leave their jobs or be absent due to a lack of inclusion or discrimination.
Damage to Reputation
A company that is seen as not being inclusive may have reputational issues in the eyes of consumers.
The Lack of DEI in the UK Travel Industry: Consumers
For consumers, a lack of DEI in the travel industry can lead to a number of problems, including:
Limited Choice
If the travel industry is not diverse, consumers will have fewer choices when it comes to where to go, where to stay, and what to do.
Feeling Unwelcome
Consumers from underrepresented groups may feel unwelcome or uncomfortable in certain travel destinations or businesses.
Representation in Communications
The lack of representation in marketing, of some customers groups, can make consumers feel excluded.
Negative Experiences
Consumers from underrepresented groups may experience discrimination or harassment when they travel.
Current Travel Industry Blind Spots
Why has there been a lack of progress on DEI in the travel industry to date? And what blind spots will the Inclusive Travel Forum make visible.
Lack of Awareness
Many travel businesses are not aware of the importance of DEI, or the problems that a lack of DEI can cause.
Lack of Resources
Many travel businesses do not have the resources to invest in DEI initiatives.
Unconscious Bias
Unconscious bias is a major problem in the travel industry, leading to discrimination against people from under represented groups.
Lack of Representation
People from minoritised groups are underrepresented in the travel industry workforce, at all levels
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