Janet Finch-Saunders MS has called on the Welsh Government to ensure that Visit Wales is reformed so that visitors can book accommodation over the state funded platform, and save on the fees paid to private companies.
The Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy has welcomed the response from the Dawn Bowden MS, Deputy Minister with responsibility for tourism, that she will meet with her to discuss the idea.
Speaking in the Senedd today, Janet said:
“Our local tourism and hospitality businesses went through so much during the pandemic period, but still continue to support 1 in 7 jobs across Wales, particularly for young people.
“However, these local businesses are losing out on potential revenue.
“When people look to stay in Wales, or anywhere else, they frequently use privately owned websites, which charge a percentage to the businesses whose rooms they advertise.
“Personally, I never use these, preferring to book directly with the hospitality business.
“Therefore, why is Visit Wales not being more innovative by itself providing an ideal platform through which visitors could book accommodation?
“By allowing people to book directly, and not levying a percentage, Visit Wales could provide a real boost to local tourism businesses.
“At the moment, Wales is lagging behind, as a result of this lack of innovation and ambition.
“People can quite easily search for available accommodation on Visit Scotland and Discover Northern Ireland, so why not Visit Wales? I welcome the Deputy Minister’s willingness to discuss this with me”.
ENDS
