WORCESTERSHIRE is holding up well against the national trend for falling conference and events bookings, according to a conference-worcestershire survey.

Fifty per cent of respondents to the survey, sent out to conference-worcestershire members, revealed they had seen a slight decrease in bookings compared to this time last year. However, nearly a quarter reported an increase, especially for repeat bookings and function events.

The results strike a contrast to national trade association Eventia’s survey findings, in which 79 per cent of respondents reported that business was down, and 72 per cent reported a drop in enquiries.

conference-worcestershire’s figures also follow Tourism West Midlands’ latest report, which reveals that the county’s visitor numbers are holding up, with attractions such as the Severn Valley Railway and West Midland Safari Park reporting strong trading and positive prospects for the year ahead.

Emma Robinson, of conference-worcestershire, said: “It is not unexpected to see that our members are feeling the effects of the current downturn. However, Worcestershire seems to be faring well compared with the country as a whole. Worcestershire’s excellent transport links, attractiveness and sheer variety of venues, from national hotel chains to independent venues make it stand out from the crowd and hold it in good stead to ride out the storm.”

More than 63 per cent of respondents reported they are marketing themselves in a different way to encourage business, with many opting for internet-based activity, such as e-shot marketing, alongside improvements to their websites.

“It is clear that members are working hard to actively implement measures to attract business in these difficult times, offering greater added value, increased flexibility and implementing more prominent marketing,” said Ms Robinson.