Join tourism leaders, policymakers, and innovators at this landmark event focused on the regeneration of coastal communities through sustainable tourism. Discover how tourism & short-term rentals (STRs) are playing a vital role in revitalizing local economies — from creating jobs and attracting investment to supporting small businesses. Learn from real-world success stories where tourism strategies have transformed coastal towns, and gain actionable insights into policy, innovation, and community collaboration. With exclusive access to market intelligence and the opportunity to connect with key decision-makers across the tourism and STR sectors, this event is a must-attend for those shaping the future of responsible, resilient coastal tourism.
Venue: Paradise Room, Pleasure Beach, Blackpool
Date: 23rd October 2025
Registration Opens: 9.30am
Event Starts: 10.00am
Welcome Address: Patricia Yates CEO, Visit England, Visit Britain and Chris Webb MP and APPG for Hospitality and Tourism
Confirmed speakers: Kate Shane, CEO, Blackpool Tourism, Andy Fenner, CEO STAA, Carl Thomson, Public Policy Manager, Airbnb, Charlie Reith, Government Affairs at Expedia Group, UK, Ireland and the Nordics, Fiona MacConnacher, Head of Public Affairs, UK & Ireland, Booking.com and Sally Henry, VP of Business Development, Key Data
Roundtable Sessions: TBC
Networking 2 course lunch from 1.00pm until 2.30pm
STAA Member Price:£40 (+VAT) including lunch
Delegate Price: £60 (+VAT) including lunch
“I’m delighted to be welcoming the Short Term Accommodation Association to Blackpool. In Blackpool we know a thing or two about hospitality and tourism. Like so many here, I’ve lived it, worked in it and seen firsthand how it doesn’t just shape a place – it shapes people’s lives and entire communities. Tourism here isn’t just about business, it’s about people, pride and connection.
I’ve worked hard over the last year to make sure our national tourism conversation looks beyond city breaks and gives coastal communities the attention they deserve. This event is proof that the message is landing – global travel platforms, Visit Britain, local business leaders and policymakers are now coming to Blackpool to talk about how we can regenerate coastal towns and create more opportunities for the people who live and work in them. This is a direct result of the relationships I have built as chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Tourism and Hospitality over the past year.
Blackpool has shown time and again that seaside destinations have the resilience, the creativity and the offer to thrive – but we can’t do it alone. By bringing the sector here, we’re not just showcasing what our town can offer, we’re starting the conversations that can shape the future for coastal tourism across the UK.”
Chris Webb MP and APPG for Hospitality and Tourism
Event Sponsors and Partners
