New research highlights pressures facing UK visitor economy

Dr Peter Robinson, Head of Subject for Events, Tourism and Hospitality Management at Leeds Beckett University, has co-authored new research with Dr Natalie Semley of Falmouth University examining the future of destination management.

The State of Destination-Making 2026 report, produced for the Tourism Management Institute (TMI), surveyed 91 destination leaders across the UK and Ireland. The research highlights how teams responsible for this work are facing reduced funding, limited staff and less government support, despite growing demands on their services.

The report warns that destinations with greater investment and support could thrive, while others risk falling behind.

It calls on decision-makers to take four actions:

Recognise the value and complexity of the visitor economy.

Resource destination organisations to grow the visitor economy.

Connect destination organisations so that they can work together to create impact.

Equip destination-makers with the tools to thrive and not merely survive.