A MAJOR tourism conference taking place in Brighton next week is estimated to be worth £1 million to the economy.

The UK’s national tourist board VisitBritain is staging its flagship annual event ExploreGB at the Brighton Centre on March 2 and 3.

The conference offers tourism destinations and businesses the opportunity to meet and network with tourism markets from across the globe.

More than 400 international buyers from 40 countries will be attending, with 430 travel industry suppliers from across England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Alan Robins, chairman of the economic, development and culture committee, said: “This is a great example of what goes on behind the scenes at the council day in day out to support and promote business in the city.

“In this case the VisitBrighton teams have worked hard to secure this event, knowing what great benefit it will bring both economically and as an opportunity to showcase our city offer on an international stage.”

VisitBritain chief executive Sally Balcombe has praised Brighton.

She said: “With its vibrant arts and music scene, heritage buildings, boutique shopping and the draw of its lively seaside and famous pier, Brighton is a fantastic destination to showcase the diversity of our tourism offer.

“The hundreds of international buyers and journalists attending ExploreGB will return home in no doubt as to the outstanding facilities and tourism products on offer across Brighton and beyond.”

Buyers from Britain’s largest and most valuable visitor markets including the USA, Germany, France, Canada and Australia will be attending.

Important growth markets including China, India, Italy and the Gulf countries will also be represented.

The two-day programme includes a gala dinner at the Hilton Metropole Hotel.