VFS Global has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the global travel and tourism sector as a Founding Partner of the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) Together in Travel initiative.
With operations spanning over 150 countries, VFS Global’s vast network is poised to play a pivotal role in helping SMEs grow and thrive in an increasingly competitive industry.
The Together in Travel initiative aims to empower SMEs by providing them with essential tools, resources, and opportunities to enhance their operations and foster sustainable growth. With a focus on inclusivity and resilience, the initiative will offer SMEs access to global markets, investment opportunities, specialised training programs, and frameworks for digital transformation and sustainable business practices.
Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO of VFS Global, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “VFS Global has been working closely with WTTC since I joined the Executive Committee in 2023, during which time I have witnessed its groundbreaking drive to expand opportunities for its members. The Together in Travel initiative envisions empowering SMEs by providing access to global markets and investment, specialised training programmes, digital transformation tools, and frameworks for sustainable business practices.”
He continued, “As a Founding Partner, we are committed to leveraging our global network in over 150 countries to help SMEs thrive and amplify their socio-economic impact. This partnership reaffirms our dedication to supporting inclusive growth of the travel and tourism industry, which remains a significant contributor to the global economy.”
The WTTC, a global body representing the travel and tourism private sector, has created the Together in Travel initiative to ensure that SMEs, often the backbone of the industry, are not left behind in the face of changing market dynamics. With more than 200 companies now represented on the Council, the initiative looks to provide businesses of all sizes the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to navigate the evolving landscape of the travel industry.
Julia Simpson, President & CEO of WTTC, commented on the importance of this collaboration, saying, “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.”
VFS Global’s involvement in the initiative is set to focus on partnerships with local enterprises, including those owned or operated by women and indigenous communities. This approach is in line with VFS Global’s broader strategy to broaden its supply chain and contribute to inclusive economic development.
