New BHA chief says hospitality is key pillar of British economy

Ufi Ibrahim

In an introductory message to members, Ufi Ibrahim, who is now the British Hospitality Association's chief executive, says that the new government and the current economic climate present all British organisations with an opportunity for new thinking and fresh action.

Ibrahim, who joins the BHA from the World Travel and Tourism Council, says that hotels, restaurants and food and service management companies are the engines of tourism and that the hospitality industry is a key pillar of the British economy.

"As demand for leisure, travel and recreation continues to grow across the world, the potential for the hospitality industry to grow its contribution to GDP and jobs across Britain is hugely significant.

"However, Britain is acting upon a highly competitive international tourism stage, which is becoming more challenging every year.

"How British hospitality meets that competition – and how much support it receives from government in doing so – will dictate how well it succeeds in the next decade and beyond."

She added that the BHA's mission is clear – "to work closely with industry, government and all our partners to strengthen and consolidate the hospitality industry's role in driving the forward-thinking policies that will enable the industry to meet its future challenges.

"Only by doing this will we be able to sustain the industry's profitable growth – growth that is critical to our future success."

Words: Clare Riley

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