Tourexpi
The
World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 25th Global Summit will bring some
of Italy’s most prominent Travel & Tourism leaders to the stage, including
WTTC Chair-Elect Manfredi Lefebvre, one of the industry’s most recognised
names. The Summit, considered the world’s most influential global tourism
event, will be held in Rome from 28–30 September in collaboration with the
Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT S.p.A. (Italian National Tourist Board), the
Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region.
Italian
Leadership on the Global Stage
Business
leaders from Italy’s top tourism brands will join Lefebvre on stage, including
Andrea Grisdale, CEO & Founder, IC Bellagio; Massimo Caputi, President
& Owner, Terme & Spa Italia; Paolo Barletta, CEO, Arsenale Spa; and
Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Cruises.
Other
distinguished Italian speakers addressing delegates include Alessandra Necci,
Director & Writer, Estense Galleries; Elisabetta Fabri, President &
CEO, Starhotels Group; Gabriele Burgio, CEO, Alpitour World; Luca Cordero di
Montezemolo, Executive Chairman, Italo; and Nerio Alessandri, Founder &
CEO, Technogym.
A
Shared Vision for the Future of Tourism
Leaders
from both the public and private sectors will convene at the Auditorium Parco
della Musica to chart the sector’s future, recognising its role in job
creation, economic growth, and cultural exchange.
Manfredi
Lefebvre, Executive Chairman of AKTG, Abercrombie & Kent and Crystal
Cruises, and WTTC President-Elect, said:
“As
we gather in this beautiful city, which happens to be my city of birth, I am
optimistic about the future of our industry. With Italy’s incredible
destinations, cultural heritage, and world-class hospitality, we have the
potential to shape the future of Travel & Tourism for generations to come.”
Daniela
Santanchè, Italy’s Minister of Tourism, added:
“Italy
has returned to a central role in the global tourism landscape. Hosting the
most prestigious event in the sector is a clear testament to this recognition.
The Summit highlights our destinations while offering a unique opportunity to
attract significant investment.”
Ivana
Jelinic, CEO of ENIT S.p.A., commented:
“Italy
is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. Our uniqueness
attracts diverse groups of travellers, and our task is to showcase the full
potential of Made in Italy across art, nature, gastronomy, fairs, and events.”
Critical
Topics and Economic Impact
From
destination stewardship to artificial intelligence and sustainable aviation,
the WTTC’s 2025 Global Summit will address the most pressing issues shaping the
future of global tourism.
According
to WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Research (EIR), Italy’s Travel & Tourism
sector is on track for a record-breaking 2025, with international visitor
spending forecast to reach €60.4BN. The sector is projected to support 3.2
million jobs — 100,000 more than last year — and contribute €237.4BN to the
Italian economy.
Image
Credit: © AA
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