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Advantage Travel Partnership announces Madrid as host city for 2026 annual conference
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Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, October 31st 2025 at 4:27 GMT by Travel Daily Media- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Madrid to Host Advantage Travel Partnership’s 2026 Annual Conference: A New Chapter in Global Travel Collaboration
The Advantage Travel Partnership (ATP), the world’s leading global travel agency trade association, has officially announced Madrid, Spain, as the host city for its 2026 annual conference. The event, slated for June 12‑15, 2026, will be held at the prestigious Centro de Convenciones de Madrid and will bring together more than 3,000 travel professionals, industry leaders, and innovators from around the globe.
A Vision for the Future of Travel
ATP’s 2026 conference will revolve around the theme “Traveling Forward: Sustainability, Innovation, and Connection.” In an evolving marketplace that demands ethical, tech‑savvy, and customer‑centric solutions, the ATP will showcase how travel agencies can lead the shift towards responsible tourism while maximizing business growth.
According to ATP President and CEO, Maria Torres, the conference will “highlight the role of agencies as catalysts for sustainable travel, and it will provide a platform for knowledge exchange that fuels innovation, resilience, and profitability.” Torres also emphasized that the partnership with the Spanish Tourism Board (ICEX) and local Madrid government will amplify the event’s impact.
Keynote Speakers and Sessions
The conference program features a lineup of distinguished keynote speakers:
- Luis Albores, Minister of Tourism for Spain – opening remarks on Spain’s commitment to sustainable tourism and the role of agencies in shaping visitor experiences.
- Dr. Elena Vázquez, Head of Sustainable Travel, World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) – insights on global trends in eco‑responsible travel.
- Carlos Ruiz, CEO of Iberia Airlines – discussing digital transformation in airline services and partnership opportunities.
- Ana García, Founder of TravelTech Startup “VoyagerAI” – exploring AI‑driven personalization in travel planning.
In addition to keynotes, ATP has curated over 40 breakout sessions covering:
- Digital Innovation – from chatbot integration to blockchain ticketing.
- Sustainability Best Practices – carbon‑offset programs, responsible accommodation partnerships, and community‑based tourism.
- Emerging Markets – new frontiers in Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia.
- Regulatory & Compliance – navigating data privacy, consumer protection, and travel insurance.
- Marketing & Customer Experience – leveraging social media, loyalty programs, and omnichannel strategies.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in interactive workshops, panel discussions, and a “Future of Travel” expo featuring exhibitors from leading travel technology firms and service providers.
Strategic Partnerships and Support
The 2026 conference is a collaborative effort between ATP, the Spanish Tourism Board (ICEX), and the Madrid Chamber of Commerce. ATP has secured a sponsorship package with ICEX that includes complimentary city tours, gala dinner at the Royal Palace, and a dedicated “Sustainability Pavilion” showcasing Spain’s green travel initiatives.
ATP’s partnership with ICEX also provides participants with exclusive access to the latest Spanish travel data, market analysis reports, and promotional codes for Spanish destinations. In a statement on its website, ATP highlighted that this collaboration underscores the association’s commitment to fostering global networks and cross‑border partnerships that benefit both agencies and destination providers.
Registration and Early‑Bird Incentives
Registration for the 2026 conference opens on March 1, 2026. ATP members receive a 15% discount on the early‑bird rate, which is valid until April 30, 2026. Non‑members can register for a reduced rate until May 31. Early‑bird registrants also receive complimentary access to the “Digital Innovation Lab,” an exclusive workshop designed to demonstrate cutting‑edge tools and solutions for travel agencies.
Additional registration benefits include:
- Conference Pack – a full‑size agenda, branded USB drive with session recordings, and travel accessories.
- Networking Lounge Access – priority entry to the ATP networking lounge, a dedicated space for connecting with peers and industry experts.
- Virtual Access – for those unable to attend in person, ATP offers a fully‑interactive virtual platform that includes live streaming of all sessions, virtual expo halls, and networking lounges.
A Cultural Experience in Madrid
Beyond the conference, participants are encouraged to explore Madrid’s rich cultural tapestry. ATP has arranged a series of optional excursions, including:
- A guided tour of the Prado Museum – featuring a special talk on art tourism.
- Stroll along the Gran Vía – a historic avenue that blends architecture, commerce, and nightlife.
- Tapas & Flamenco evening – a culinary and dance experience hosted by local chefs and artists.
These excursions are designed to showcase Madrid as a premier destination for both leisure and business travelers, reinforcing the conference’s overarching message of sustainable and meaningful travel.
Looking Ahead
ATP’s selection of Madrid as the 2026 conference host underscores the association’s belief that travel agencies are pivotal in navigating the complexities of the modern tourism landscape. By bringing together stakeholders from across the globe, the event will serve as a catalyst for dialogue, collaboration, and actionable insights that will shape the industry’s next decade.
Travel professionals, destination managers, technology providers, and sustainability advocates can look forward to an engaging, informative, and transformative experience that aligns with ATP’s mission: “To bring people together, promote growth, and build the future of travel.”
For more details on the conference, including the full agenda, speaker bios, and registration, visit the ATP website at [ www.advantage-travel.com ]. To explore Madrid’s offerings and the partnership with ICEX, visit the Spanish Tourism Board’s site at [ www.icex.es ].
Read the Full Travel Daily Media Article at:
[ https://www.traveldailymedia.com/advantage-travel-partnership-announces-madrid-as-host-city-for-2026-annual-conference/ ]
