In a significant effort to enhance the role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the global travel industry, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has officially launched the Together in Travel SME initiative. VFS Global has joined this initiative as a Founding Partner. The WTTC serves as the only global entity representing the private sector of travel and tourism, currently representing over 200 companies that account for approximately two-thirds of a trillion US dollars in turnover, equating to 30% of the entire travel sector.

With more than 20 years of experience in technological innovation and market expansion, VFS Global is well-positioned to share its expertise with a wider network of travel businesses. This new program aims to empower SMEs, helping them to thrive within the evolving travel ecosystem and adapt to changing market dynamics.

VFS Global will actively support SMEs across its network, which spans more than 150 countries. The organization recognizes the critical role these businesses play in driving innovation and fostering sustainable growth within the travel and tourism sector. VFS Global is dedicated to helping SMEs scale their operations and create opportunities for sustainable success.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We are delighted to welcome VFS Global as a Founding Partner of Together in Travel. Their invaluable expertise, global network, and industry leadership will play a crucial role in shaping this platform, empowering SMEs around the world with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive.”

The initiative also emphasizes the importance of partnerships with local enterprises, women-owned businesses, and those representing indigenous communities, broadening the supply chain and promoting inclusive economic development.

Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO of VFS Global Group, noted the company’s commitment, stating that the Together in Travel initiative aims to provide SMEs with access to global markets, investment, and specialized training programs. He emphasized VFS Global’s dedication to supporting the inclusive growth of the travel industry, which is a vital contributor to the global economy.

As a founding partner, VFS Global is reaffirming its commitment to empowering SMEs worldwide, enhancing their contributions to socio-economic growth on a global scale. The WTTC also announced Andrea Grisdale, Founder and CEO of IC Bellagio, as the Vice Chair of the Together in Travel initiative. Grisdale brings over 25 years of experience in creating bespoke travel experiences.

Matthew Upchurch, Vice Chair, Chairman & CEO of Virtuoso, commented on the transformative nature of the initiative, highlighting its potential to provide SMEs with essential tools and resources to thrive in a complex market.

The Together in Travel initiative offers SMEs vital resources, including access to global markets, investment opportunities, specialized training programs, digital transformation tools, and frameworks for sustainable business practices.

This collaboration also brings together expertise from various sectors of the travel and hospitality industries, with companies like Accor, Red Carnation Hotels, MSC Cruises, Hilton, and Microsoft contributing their knowledge to create a more inclusive and sustainable future for global travel and tourism.