Ufi Ibrahim, chief executive of the BHA, said and the aim of the initiative was to celebrate the success of the sector in creating jobs and contributing to the economy.
“We also want to provide a clearer understanding on issues that will reduce the regulatory and financial burdens that hinder the growth of this vibrant and powerful community.
“The hospitality and tourism industry has recently been singled out by government ministers for its ‘sharp focus’ on job generation and it’s a little known fact that our sector accounted for one third of all new jobs created between 2010 and 2012.
“This growth will move hospitality into the top three biggest employers in Britain, and with 44% of hospitality employees under the age of 30 it’s fair to say that this sector is the future.
“We’re delighted that ITN has recognised the important contribution our industry makes to the UK economy and look forward to creating an inspiring new programme which will showcase our work and inspire future generations.”
ITN Productions, the creative production hub at ITN, has commissioned the news programme.
Simon Shelley, UK director of programming, will oversee the editorial and has said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with the BHA, creating content and a voice on major themes such as inspiring the next generation, responsible hospitality and driving the UK’s competitiveness.
“We’re excited to bring to life the incredible success stories of individuals who have risen in the sector, but we’re also keen to get the right message across on the issues that hinder growth and profitability.”
The programme will be premiered at the The British Hospitality & Tourism Summit on Thursday, June 5th, which will be hosted by Accor at the Novotel London West.
The programme will reach all parts of the sector, key partners to the industry and be distributed by ITN to their relevant networks as well.