The Office for National Statistics names travel agencies – taken to include tour operators as well – as being one of the largest contributors to GDP growth in the final three months of 2016. The sector grew its contribution to GDP by 7.3%, contributing 0.05 percentage points to GDP growth. This however compares to retail as a whole, which contributed 0.08 percentage points to headline growth.

The ONS said services such as travel were driving the economy, with traditional sectors like construction and agriculture flat.

Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer said: “The latest figures from the Office of National Statistics showing the contribution of travel agency services to GDP growth are positive and are a sign that consumers are feeling more confident and value the expertise of travel agencies.

“The figures reflect the significant contribution that travel and tourism makes to the economy, delivering £127 billion annually. However, there are challenging and uncertain times ahead and for continued growth it is more important than ever that the Government supports the travel industry.”