Bristol Airport has become the first in Britain to gain WorldHost Recognised Business status, in recognition of its commitment to welcoming visitors to the South West and Wales.
WorldHost is a world-class customer service training programme that has already been used to train nearly 1m people worldwide, including tens of thousands of staff and volunteers at the London 2013 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The programme has been endorsed by VisitEngland 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.
Airport chief executive officer Robert Sinclair 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.”
Destination Bristol chief executive John Hirst added: “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.”
Pictured: From left, Bristol Airport's Sarah Greenwell with Tom Drake, John Ayres and Debbie Hastings and the award 
