In a significant post-Brexit setback for the UK's capital, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has confirmed it will move its global headquarters from London to Madrid.
Why Madrid Won the Relocation Race
The decision, finalised by the organisation's 17-member operating committee, was unanimous. While other European hubs like France, Italy, and Switzerland were considered, along with Dubai, the Spanish capital emerged as the clear winner. The WTTC, founded in 1990 and based in the UK since its inception, represents the global private travel sector, including major hotel chains, Airbnb, tour operators, and travel technology firms.
The council explicitly cited "challenges linked to Brexit, such as constraints on talent mobility," as key reasons for finding the UK less attractive. Interim President and CEO Gloria Guevara stated that Madrid offers "immediate access to a significantly broader and more diverse talent pool." She added that being in a competitive city like Madrid would help the WTTC strengthen its position and engage more closely with its worldwide members.
The Brexit Context and Industry Warnings
This move validates long-standing concerns from the travel industry about the consequences of leaving the European Union. Prior to the 2016 referendum, the UK travel association Abta warned that restrictions on recruiting EU nationals could challenge businesses in filling roles and that a falling pound could make holidays more expensive for British consumers.
The post-Brexit reality has already forced operational changes for major UK travel companies. For instance, easyJet was compelled to establish an Austrian subsidiary, easyJet Europe, moving 100 aircraft to it to retain the right to operate flights freely within the EU after losing its UK-based licensing privileges.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter in Spain
WTTC Chair Manfredi Lefebvre had signalled the move in October 2025, highlighting the pursuit of "lower operational costs and EU single market access." The council praised Spain for prioritising travel and tourism and understanding the sector's enormous contribution to global growth.
The relocation marks a concrete economic and symbolic loss for London, as a major global institution chooses an EU base over a British one. The UK government has been approached for comment on the WTTC's departure. This development underscores the ongoing recalibration of Britain's international business landscape in the wake of its exit from the European Union.
