Bristol Airport becomes Britain’s first WorldHost airport

Training programme will deliver warm welcome for overseas visitors 

2013-04-05 — /travelprnews.com/ — Bristol Airport has demonstrated its commitment to welcoming visitors to the South West and Wales by becoming the first Airport in Britain to gain WorldHost Recognised Business status.

WorldHost is a world-class customer service training programme that has already been used to train nearly one million people worldwide, including tens of thousands of staff and volunteers at the London 2013 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The programme has been endorsed by Visit England and covers customer service skills and awareness of different cultures with the aim of ensuring visitors to the UK receive a warm and friendly welcome.

WorldHost Recognised Business status is awarded to businesses that have trained 50% or more of their front line staff using any of the WorldHost training programmes and signed a commitment to delivering excellent customer service.

Bristol became the first airport in Britain to achieve that target after hundreds of staff completed the training course over recent months, spanning roles in customer services, security and ground transportation. The ultimate aim is for all customer-facing employees to undergo WorldHost training.

Robert Sinclair, Chief Executive Officer at Bristol Airport, said:
“Bristol Airport is an important gateway to the South West and Wales for overseas visitors and we have a vital role to play in creating a positive first impression. Our brand promises that ‘Amazing Journeys Start Here’, and this initiative will help us to deliver on this pledge for inbound passengers arriving in the UK.”

John Hirst, Chief Executive, Destination Bristol said:
“Bristol Airport makes a significant contribution to the local visitor economy. Gaining WorldHost Recognised Airport status is a fantastic achievement for the city which will help to raise Bristol’s profile as a welcoming city and further boost visitor numbers.”

Sharon Glancy, Managing Director of People 1st Training Company, which delivers WorldHost training in the UK, said:

“Airports are often the first point of contact for international tourists when visiting the UK and have a huge role to play in making a good impression. The way visitors are treated, whether they are checking in or arriving at their destination, can have a real effect on how welcome they feel and whether they decide to return. It’s fantastic that Bristol Airport is playing its part in promoting the local tourism offer.”

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