The great diversity and inclusion pushback: why it’s wrong and what you can do about it
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives have been gaining traction in the travel industry, but the global climate has changed.
Where once inclusion was embraced, some companies are now turning their backs. It’s a global challenge, particularly in the wake of political shifts, such as the recent rollbacks of DEI policies in the US following Donald Trump’s executive orders.
While the UK has not seen such drastic policy changes, some businesses can still encounter resistance when trying to implement DEI strategies. Pushback can stem from a variety of sources: long-standing company cultures, budget constraints, or simply a lack of understanding about the tangible benefits of inclusivity.
For many UK travel businesses, it’s easy to fall into the trap of assuming that diversity and inclusion are secondary to the more immediate pressures of delivering a seamless customer experience and driving profits.
There remains a powerful case for travel businesses to push forward in their commitment to inclusivity, however. Here’s why.
Why inclusivity matters for the travel industry
There is a growing demand for inclusive experiences from both customers and employees alike. Today’s traveller is more conscious than ever of the companies they support, and employees want to work for businesses that demonstrate a genuine commitment to inclusivity.
The UK travel industry is a vibrant and diverse sector, one that brings people together from all walks of life. As global citizens, travellers expect businesses to reflect the diversity of the world they are exploring. This means ensuring that travel services, from booking processes to marketing campaigns, cater to a range of identities, backgrounds, and needs.
For example, ensuring that websites and communication materials are accessible to people with disabilities, representing diverse cultures in promotional content, and addressing biases in the travel experiences provided are essential steps for businesses looking to stay relevant.
Inclusivity in travel isn’t just a matter of social justice — it’s a competitive advantage. According to research, travellers are increasingly favouring companies that demonstrate clear commitment to diversity and inclusion, and this trend is expected to grow.
A Commitment to the Future
Despite the challenges, now is not the time for travel businesses to retreat from their DEI efforts. Inclusivity is not only essential for creating a positive, thriving work environment but also for positioning your business as a leader in the competitive UK travel industry.
By pushing forward with inclusive policies, your business will not only meet the evolving demands of customers but also help to foster a culture where everyone can thrive and feel a true sense of belonging.
How to Tackle DEI Pushback in Your Travel Business
For UK travel businesses experiencing resistance to DEI, here are a few practical strategies:
1. Engage Leadership
DEI must be a priority from the top down. Involve senior leaders in conversations about the business case for DEI and demonstrate how an inclusive approach will ultimately drive customer loyalty and improve employee retention.
2. Start Small, Scale Up
Begin by integrating inclusive practices into one area of the business, such as hiring or marketing. Use early successes to demonstrate the positive impact and then expand these practices across other departments.
3. Provide Training
Employees at all levels should have access to DEI training that is not just about compliance but about building understanding and empathy. This creates a workforce that feels supported and valued, which in turn improves morale and productivity.
4. Monitor and Measure
Implement systems for tracking progress, from employee feedback surveys to customer satisfaction ratings. This data will help you assess the impact of your DEI efforts and adjust your approach if necessary.
Join the Upcoming Inclusive Travel Forum Webinar
If you're unsure where to begin or need practical insights on how to make DEI work for your business, we invite you to attend the upcoming Inclusive Travel Forum webinar on Why Inclusivity in Travel Matters. This session will provide valuable tips and strategies from industry experts on how to implement inclusive practices that will positively impact both your employees and customers.
Join us on Wednesday, 5 February 2025, from 12:00 pm to 12:45 pm.
Additionally, the Inclusive Travel Forum offers a wealth of other member benefits, including access to industry-specific resources, networking opportunities with like-minded professionals, and ongoing support on your inclusivity journey. As a member, your business will be equipped with the tools and knowledge to navigate the complexities of inclusivity in the travel sector and build a truly welcoming environment for all.
Visit the website to learn more about the Inclusive Travel Forum.
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