A campaign to encourage more firms to use the county to host corporate away days has been launched.

Spearheaded by tourism agency Visit Kent, it is hoped by getting firms - both in the county and London - to book venues, experiences and attractions, it will boost visitor numbers during off-peak periods.

Running for six weeks, the Meet in Kent campaign - which includes a dedicated website and social media push - will look to rebuild the business events sector which was hit hard during the pandemic.

Deirdre Wells, chief executive at Visit Kent, explains: “We want to deliver a project that helps to strengthen consumer confidence in business events and create off-peak business opportunities by encouraging local businesses to book their away days, corporate events and team building experiences with business events suppliers that they may not realise are located near to them – here in Kent.

"We need to continue to assist venues, attractions and experience suppliers in the face of continued tough economic times. We know through our research that the business events market offers a great opportunity for suppliers to capitalise on new trends with the potential to add income, diversify and grow their business.

“We know there is strong demand in the meetings and events market and plenty of competition, but this promotion will show how Kent has a compelling offer for businesses looking for ways – with a rise in

remote working and growing awareness of the value of staff wellbeing - to bring their staff together to collaborate, learn and motivate.”

The campaign forms part of the Experience project which is co-founded by the Interreg France (Channel) England Programme.

Meet in Kent will provide a free platform for business event suppliers based in the county, including hotels and attractions with meeting spaces as well as dedicated purpose-built conference and meeting venues. In addition, local experiences or attractions, including foragers, golf courses, cookery schools and other activity providers will also participate.