Brad Bennetts, head of sales for APT & Travelmarvel in the UK and Ireland, has laid out the company’s ambitious plans to amplify agent collaboration in 2024.
The focus is on broadening the sales team and enhancing partnerships, setting the stage for a promising year in cruise bookings.
Strengthening Agent Engagement
In 2024, APT & Travelmarvel is set to enhance its partnerships with travel agents across the UK and Ireland. The company intends to expand its agency sales team significantly, which is expected to strengthen ties with the trade. This strategy, led by Brad Bennetts, aims to bring a fresh perspective to the industry.
Bennetts has highlighted the importance of having a proactive approach in increasing agent engagement. He emphasises the need to equip agents with the right tools and knowledge to maximise bookings. According to Bennetts, ‘Empowering agents with insights and support is essential for our success.’
The Maiden Voyage of Mekong Serenity
The recent launch of the Mekong Serenity marks a significant milestone for APT. This new addition to the fleet took its maiden voyage earlier this year, showcasing the company’s commitment to providing exceptional cruising experiences. The vessel is designed to offer guests a blend of luxury and comfort.
Feedback from passengers has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly praising the ship’s amenities and attentive service. This response underscores APT’s dedication to maintaining high standards on its cruises.
Looking Forward to 2024
Bennetts expressed optimism for the coming year, anticipating a fruitful 2024 for the cruise industry. He notes the positive booking momentum that has continued into the new year. This trend is supported by a longer booking curve, giving agents more opportunities to secure sales.
The company is poised to capitalise on this momentum, with strategic plans in place to address peak booking periods. Bennetts has revealed initiatives designed to support agents during these critical times, reflecting the brand’s proactive stance.
Moreover, there’s exciting speculation about the introduction of a new ship in 2025, which Bennetts hinted could further enhance the company’s offerings.
Challenges and Opportunities
The cruise sector, like many others, faces various challenges. Bennetts acknowledges that adapting to the changing market landscape requires agility and innovation. He stresses the significance of staying ahead in a competitive environment.
Agents have a pivotal role in navigating these challenges. By using strategic insights provided by APT, agents can effectively leverage market trends to their advantage. Bennetts believes that a collaborative effort will be crucial to overcoming hurdles.
Supporting the Trade
APT’s dedication to supporting trade partners is evident through its initiatives aimed at providing continuous learning and development opportunities. These programmes are tailored to enhance the skills and knowledge of travel agents.
The organisation acknowledges the vital role agents play in driving sales and maintains a focus on fostering robust partnerships with them. Such efforts are integral to achieving shared success in the competitive cruise industry.
With plans to bolster its support systems, the company is committed to ensuring agents are well-equipped to deal with the evolving demands of the market.
Bennetts’ Vision for Growth
Brad Bennetts has articulated a clear vision for the growth of APT & Travelmarvel. His strategy involves not only expanding the fleet but also enhancing the overall customer experience through innovation.
Bennetts envisions a future where APT leads as a pioneer in the cruise industry, driven by dedication to quality and customer satisfaction. This vision aligns with the company’s ongoing efforts to redefine luxury cruising.
Communicating Success
Success stories within APT highlight the effectiveness of its current strategies. The company has consistently delivered exceptional cruising experiences to its clientele, reinforcing its reputation in the industry.
In summary, Brad Bennetts’ insights reveal a strategic shift towards empowering agents and enhancing customer experiences at APT & Travelmarvel.
The proactive measures and plans for expansion underline a commitment to sustained growth and excellence in the cruise arena.
