Author: Shawon Hannan
In the first quarter of 2024, Lufthansa Group has reported a substantial net loss, largely attributed to strike actions. This decline marks a 57% increase in losses compared to the same period last year.Despite a rise in total revenues and passenger numbers, the financial impact of strikes remains a significant challenge for the company. The quarterly figures underscore the ongoing operational hurdles Lufthansa is attempting to overcome.Financial Impact of StrikesLufthansa Group experienced a net loss of €734 million in Q1 2024, significantly influenced by €350 million lost due to strikes. This loss represents a substantial increase from the €467 million…
Qantas recently faced a privacy breach involving its app, compromising some customer data visibility. The breach was promptly addressed, with no financial data at risk.This incident, stemming from a recent system change, highlights the airline’s commitment to quick resolution and ongoing security enhancements.Details of the BreachThe privacy breach occurred when some Qantas frequent flyers accessed the travel information of other customers via the airline’s app. No personal or financial data were compromised beyond names and travel details. This breach specifically involved the visibility of other passengers’ names, flight details, points balance, and frequent flyer status, but there was no risk…
The highly anticipated Queen Anne ship has arrived in Southampton ahead of its maiden voyage, marking a significant moment for Cunard and the city.Spectators lined the shores as the 3,000-passenger vessel sailed into its home port, showcasing advanced innovation.Initial tests with travel agents were postponed to ensure the ship’s readiness for its upcoming cruise.Queen Anne is set for a summer season of voyages, including a ceremonial event in Liverpool, Cunard’s spiritual home.The ship will embark on exciting journeys, starting with a seven-night cruise to Lisbon and a 14-day tour to the Canary Islands.Queen Anne, the newest addition to Cunard’s fleet,…
Globus is gearing up to launch a revamped trade sales platform across its brands, including Cosmos Tours. With the North American market set for its initial release, the UK will soon follow.The upgrade aims to streamline booking logistics and enhance user engagement. Accompanied by an enhanced training portal for agents, the new system underscores Globus’ commitment to service excellence and global integration.Globus is set to revolutionise its trade sales process by launching a new and improved sales platform across its portfolio of brands, such as Cosmos Tours and Avalon Waterways. This updated platform, which replaces the current Travel Agent Portal…
Audley Travel, a well-known tailor-made travel specialist, has announced the appointment of Sarah Turner as its new business development manager.Turner aims to strengthen relationships with travel agents in the south of the UK, enhancing marketing, events, and training collaborations.Audley Travel’s decision to recruit Sarah Turner is seen as a strategic step towards capitalising on the growing demand from travel agents for tailor-made experiences. This move aligns with the company’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its ties with the trade, particularly focusing on the southern regions of the United Kingdom.With extensive experience in the travel industry, Turner’s role will involve expanding Audley…
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has promoted Richard Wager to lead their sales efforts in the north of the UK.Richard Wager’s new role as the regional sales executive will be pivotal in enhancing NCL’s market presence in this key region. With a strong background in the travel sector, he enters this position with a wealth of knowledge and a focus on customer engagement.Richard Wager’s Journey in the Cruise IndustryRichard Wager has been appointed as the regional sales executive for Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) in the north of the UK. He transitions from his previous role at the NCL Partner Contact Centre,…
Ambassador Cruise Line has initiated a strategic recruitment drive aimed at enhancing its trade operations. This initiative follows a record-breaking season launch, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth trajectory.With the appointment of a new deputy head of trade, along with additional business development roles, the cruise line is poised to leverage commercial partnerships to boost sales. This move demonstrates Ambassador’s commitment to strengthening relationships with trade partners and enhancing service levels.Ambassador Cruise Line has announced a strategic recruitment effort to fill the newly established position of deputy head of trade, alongside other business development roles. This initiative aims…
Globus brands have achieved a remarkable milestone in customer service excellence. They are the first in the travel industry to receive this prestigious accreditation.This achievement underscores their commitment to exceptional customer service, as evaluated by the Institute of Customer Service. Both Cosmos Tours and Avalon Waterways have demonstrated remarkable dedication.The Globus family of brands in the United Kingdom has been formally recognised for its outstanding customer service with the ServiceMark accreditation, a distinction conferred by the Institute of Customer Service (ICS). This accolade marks an ‘industry first’, as Cosmos Tours and Avalon Waterways, subsidiaries of Globus, have been acknowledged as…
In a move to enhance its commercial capabilities, Ambassador Cruise Line seeks to expand its UK trade sales team.The company intends to add three key positions to bolster connections with trade partners.Ambassador Cruise Line is actively recruiting for three pivotal roles to strengthen its UK trade team. The positions open are Deputy Head of Trade, Business Development Manager (BDM), and Business Development Executive (BDE). Each role is integral in driving sales and enhancing the company’s market presence. Successful candidates will focus on revenue generation and building enduring relationships with trade partners.The recruitment initiative coincides with Ambassador’s landmark achievement in its…
The Fred Olsen Travel Conference recently held in Chesham highlighted the imperative for travel agents to prepare diligently for the upcoming year.Industry experts, including key figures from Celebrity Cruises, outlined strategies to ensure that 2024 could potentially become the most successful year for travel ever.Embracing Change for Future SuccessAt the recent Fred Olsen Travel conference held in Chesham, industry leaders emphasised the critical need for travel agents to become ‘match fit’. Giles Hawke, a prominent figure from Celebrity Cruises, delivered an inspiring analogy comparing this readiness to the rigours faced by athletes, like Sir Steve Redgrave. Delegates were reminded of…