Author: Shawon Hannan
The homeworking sector in the travel industry is experiencing unprecedented success. Agencies are reporting record-breaking years and significant growth in recruitment.With changing customer booking habits and expanding agency models, home-based agents are thriving. This report takes a closer look at the factors driving this success.The past year has seen remarkable growth in the homeworking sector, with numerous agencies reporting their best-ever performance. Travel Counsellors achieved record annual bookings of £933 million, a 23% increase from the previous year. Over 700 travel counsellors celebrated their best year in 2023, highlighting the sector’s impressive trajectory.Established high-street names are also recognising the potential…
InsideAsia Tours, a leader in cultural adventure travel, has unveiled an innovative summer incentive offering double commissions to travel agents. This initiative seeks to broaden the horizons of agents while promoting under-explored destinations.As part of Inside Travel Group, InsideAsia aims to highlight the wealth of cultural experiences available across Asia, enticing agents to engage with new opportunities. The incentive is valid from July 19 to August 31, encouraging agents to venture into new territories.The Launch of the IncentiveInsideAsia Tours, a renowned specialist in cultural adventure travel, has announced an enticing new trade incentive for the summer. With the intention to…
Prestige Travel is set to enhance its support for agents with a planned familiarisation (fam) trip to Croatia this autumn. This initiative underscores their commitment to providing travel professionals with hands-on experience and knowledge of key destinations.As part of its strategy to bolster agent support, Prestige Travel has announced plans for a distinctive educational fam trip, targeting Croatia. Participants will embark on an informative tour encompassing Split, Korcula, and Dubrovnik from the 30th of September to the 4th of October. This is among several educational trips the operator has lined up, including events in Canada and a first-ever trip to…
In a strategic move, Crystal Cruises has unveiled an exhilarating incentive programme for travel agents. This initiative is launched to celebrate the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics.Running from 26 July to 11 August 2024, the programme promises rewards for top-performing agents, aligning perfectly with the prestigious international sporting event.Crystal’s newly launched programme is designed to incentivise travel agents with a thrilling array of prizes. From a tandem skydive experience to surfing adventures for two, the rewards are undeniably enticing.Agents have the opportunity to win gift vouchers, Gymshark holdalls, and exquisite French wine gift sets, appealing to a diverse range of interests…
Winged Boots has initiated a new bursary scheme to support students attending independent boarding schools, driven by the company’s co-founders who were once bursary recipients themselves. This initiative underscores their commitment to giving back to the community.The first beneficiary, a student from Marshalls Park Academy, will enrol at Brentwood School this September. The scheme aims to involve local businesses in funding bursaries for high-achieving students, promoting educational opportunities across socio-economic backgrounds.Winged Boots’ New Bursary InitiativeWinged Boots has launched a groundbreaking bursary scheme aimed at supporting students to attend independent boarding schools. This initiative is spearheaded by the company’s co-founders, Daniel…
Windstar Cruises has embarked on a strategic partnership with Revelex to revamp its booking process for travel agents. The integration aims to streamline operations and broaden distribution channels, enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction.By introducing innovative technology, Windstar intends to provide its partners with a more seamless and effective way to book cruises. This move is part of a larger initiative to expand its market presence globally, ensuring travel agents have the tools needed to succeed in a competitive industry.Introduction of Integrated TechnologyWindstar Cruises has implemented advanced technology to enhance the booking process for travel agents by partnering with Revelex. This…
Nick Hughes is set to reassume the role of chairman at Tipto, marking a significant return to a position he held during a pivotal time for the organisation.This transition, effective from September, brings a seasoned executive back to the fore, promising continuity and strengthened leadership for Tipto’s future.The Scenic Group’s illustrious executive, Nick Hughes, will assume the role of Tipto chairman, succeeding Richard Forde this September. This appointment marks his return to a familiar leadership role within the trade association, poised to lead it into its 26th year of operation. Hughes’ previous tenure was notably shaped by the Covid-19 pandemic,…
Regent Seven Seas Cruises places immense value on feedback from travel agents, which has proven critical in shaping the 2026/2027 season. Vice President of Sales UK, Paul Beale, highlights the synergy between trade input and the cruise line’s strategic direction.The introduction of new itineraries and immersive experiences stems from Regent’s proactive response to agent feedback. This collaborative effort ensures that the cruise line meets customer demands for unique and engaging travel experiences.The Importance of Trade FeedbackTrade feedback is vital for Regent Seven Seas Cruises as it shapes the future of the cruise line’s offerings. According to Paul Beale, vice president…
The cruise industry is facing increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact.With growing scrutiny on eco-friendly solutions like liquified natural gas (LNG), the industry is exploring innovative approaches to sustainability. This article examines how three leading cruise lines are pioneering efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and promote greener travel.Marella Cruises is trialling a new microplastic filtration system aboard its ship, Marella Explorer. The initiative, undertaken in partnership with Cleaner Seas Group, involves the installation of Indikon filters in the ship’s laundry system to capture microplastics. This groundbreaking trial, conducted with the University of Surrey, aims to measure the effectiveness…
Heathrow Airport is currently facing mounting competitive pressure from European hubs, despite a record-breaking number of passengers in recent months.There is an increasing call for the UK government to strategically support the aviation sector to ensure Heathrow’s continued role as a leading airline hub.Heathrow Faces Growing CompetitionHeathrow Airport has highlighted increasing competition from European hubs, driven by bureaucratic tax and border policies. This competitive pressure is becoming a significant concern for the airport, which has otherwise seen a record 39.8 million passengers in the first half of the year. Acknowledging this, Heathrow stresses the necessity for UK aviation to receive…