Not in the Guidebooks has strategically expanded its trade support team by recruiting experienced professionals from Co-op Holidays.
This expansion is aimed at bolstering their capacity to meet increasing demands for experiential and sustainable travel offerings.
Expansion of Trade Support Team
Not in the Guidebooks, a B Corp certified operator, has made strategic advancements in enhancing trade support by onboarding a new team from Co-op Holidays. The integration includes Tracy Lote as a sales team leader, alongside Vicky Lawrence and Hannah Mildenhall. This move represents a significant investment in strengthening their capacity to handle trade enquiries efficiently.
Their commitment to providing experiential, sustainable, and immersive travel experiences is evident. This strategic recruitment is designed to bolster their ability to cater to the growing demand for such unique travel offerings. The enhanced team will focus extensively on building deeper connections with partners, ensuring that client needs are met with precision and expertise.
Educational Trip to Lapland
In a bid to familiarise their team with their expansive portfolio, Not in the Guidebooks organised a five-night educational excursion to Lapland. The intent behind this expedition was to provide hands-on experience with their itineraries, particularly those gaining traction in Lapland.
Lapland, known for its stunning winter landscapes and unique cultural experiences, stands as a prime location for the operator’s itineraries. The trip enabled the team to engage directly with local hosts and understand the nuances of delivering these experiences.
The sales director remarked on the importance of these trips in equipping the team to handle inquiries about Lapland effectively. It offers them practical insights into the destination, enhancing their ability to assist the trade with detailed and informed responses.
Focus on Lapland as a Key Destination
Lapland has emerged as a central focus for Not in the Guidebooks, being highlighted not just as a Christmas destination but also for its year-round appeal. The region offers winter activities from January to March, ideal for witnessing the Aurora Borealis.
Sales director Debbie Sowden emphasised that the appeal of Lapland extends well beyond the festive season. Travellers are increasingly discovering the joy of exploring this winter wonderland during the early months of the year.
The destination offers a myriad of activities suitable for adults and older children, combining adventure with cultural immersion. This diversification ensures that there is something for every traveller, making it a versatile location to promote.
Insights from Team Members
The inclusion of new team members has been met with enthusiasm. Team member Vicky Lawrence noted the invaluable nature of experiencing the Lapland programme firsthand. “The trip offered a unique opportunity to connect with local hosts, enriching our understanding,” she commented.
Such experiences are foundational in shaping the team’s approach to client inquiries. By experiencing the destination directly, the team can offer a more nuanced perspective, ultimately benefiting both the client and the operator.
Strategic Goals and Future Plans
With the newly expanded team, Not in the Guidebooks aims to elevate its support for trade partners. This initiative aligns with their broader strategy of promoting sustainable and immersive travel experiences.
Looking ahead, the company intends to expand its offerings and maintain a strong presence in key markets. The focus remains on providing unparalleled support to their partners, ensuring seamless operations and client satisfaction across all destinations.
Their proactive approach sets a benchmark for excellence within the travel industry, highlighting their commitment to sustainable business practices and customer-centric solutions.
Commitment to Sustainable Travel
Sustainability remains at the forefront of Not in the Guidebooks’ operations. Their B Corp certification stands as a testament to their commitment to ethical and responsible tourism.
This certification not only reinforces trust but also guides their strategic decisions, ensuring all aspects of their business reflect their core values. They continue to innovate, integrating sustainable practices into every facet of their offerings.
Team Dynamics and Collaboration
The addition of Tracy Lote as a sales team leader has invigorated the team dynamics. Her leadership is expected to drive collaboration and enhance performance across all functions.
The team’s collaborative spirit is crucial in adapting to industry changes and meeting evolving client demands. With the new additions, they are well-positioned to tackle challenges and leverage new opportunities in the market.
The integration of the Co-op Holidays team marks a significant step in strengthening Not in the Guidebooks’ trade support.
This initiative is expected to enhance service delivery and solidify partnerships. The company’s commitment to sustainable travel continues to drive its strategic direction.
