Rugby legends Sinfield and Jones-Buchanan named as ITT conference keynote speakers

The conference, which will be held over 2-4 June at the Chia Laguna Resort in Sardinia, will mix keynote speeches, presentations and interactive sessions, social events and networking opportunities. Freudmann said the conference would be the first of its kind to be held on the Italian island.

"It is simply a stunning destination, steeped in history, and relatively unexplored," he said. "There are huge opportunities there for the people in our industry.” 

Freudmann said he was optimistic about the year ahead: “Once again, the travel industry is proving itself to be one of the most robust industries in the UK. We expect the general public will continue to demand their annual holiday, although value for money will be the key theme."

With cost at the forefront of customer’s minds, Freudmann said new destinations would come to market, tipping eastern Europe – Bulgaria and Romania – for big things. He added Turkey’s popularity would continue to soar, and that previously troubled destinations like Tunisia would make a resurgence.

One potential headwind is the rollout of the EU’s new biometric border rules and the bloc’s Esta-style visa waiver Etias, both expected to take effect this year. However, Freudmann said he didn’t foresee significant problems for travellers.

“There undoubtedly will be issues, especially for those who aren’t so tech-savvy," he said. "But I think that we can rely on the government to make it as easy a process as possible.”

In addition, Freudman said the launch of the EU Entry-Exit System and Etias scheme could be another opportunity for agents to attract new customers keen to tap their expertise and have them steer them through the new processes.

"If they’re able to prove their value, opportunities for independent travel agents have never been greater," said Freudman. "Customers are now almost paralysed by choice and having that independent, personal advice and guidance will be a great asset."