Explore Worldwide has surpassed its previous year’s sales figures, reaching this milestone in less than half of the current financial year.
The adventure travel operator is celebrating unprecedented sales success, alongside implementing strategic initiatives aimed at boosting trade partnerships and enriching customer experiences.
Explore Worldwide announced that it has already exceeded last year’s total sales figures despite only being halfway through 2024. This remarkable achievement comes after a record-breaking January, highlighted by the highest sales day in its 42-year history. The adventure operator attributes this success to an uptick in trade sales, with travel agent bookings rising significantly, now comprising nearly 19% of all reservations, up from 11% in 2019.
The organisation has seen a significant shift towards trade sales, focusing on strengthening relationships with travel agents. Explore Worldwide has channelled efforts into supporting these agents, supplying them with enhanced tools and resources.
According to managing director Michael Edwards, “We knew 2024 would be a big year for Explore.” This sentiment echoes the firm’s strategic direction as it continues to enhance its trade partnerships and promotes specialised packages.
The company’s success is especially pronounced in Asia, where sales have outperformed previous records by a staggering 51%.
In particular, Sri Lanka has seen sales soar by 139%, while popular itineraries like Simply Japan and Cycle Vietnam have grown by 61% and 74%, respectively.
Explore Worldwide’s outstanding performance can be attributed to strategic overseas investments, particularly in customer service and marketing across key regions such as Australia and the US.
In recent years, Explore Worldwide has made meaningful investments in its global operations. The firm has bolstered its presence with the establishment of its second international office in Brisbane, alongside expansions in North America.
These expansions have resulted in a 50% increase in overseas bookings over the past year. This growth underscores the efficacy of Explore’s globalisation strategy.
The company is poised for further growth, driven by its proactive approach in diversifying offerings and expanding its global footprint. Explore Worldwide plans to continue expanding its team and resources to support increased demand and enhance customer satisfaction.
The firm is committed to nurturing its partnerships with travel agents, underscoring the importance of trade sales in its broader growth strategy.
By investing in new marketing initiatives and broadening its customer service capacity, Explore Worldwide aims to capture a larger share of the adventure travel market.
Explore Worldwide operates under the umbrella of Hotelplan UK, which also owns Inghams and Santa’s Lapland.
The parent company’s resources and strategic vision have been instrumental in Explore’s continued success, aiding in the efficient allocation of resources and strategic market positioning.
Explore Worldwide’s early success in 2024 highlights the effectiveness of its strategic focus on trade sales and market expansion.
With ongoing investments in global operations and a strong emphasis on agent partnerships, the company is well-positioned for continued growth.
In conclusion, Explore Worldwide’s impressive sales achievements highlight the company’s successful strategic initiatives in trade sales and global market expansion.
The firm is set for sustained growth, with a clear focus on enhancing its trade relationships and expanding its operational capacity.
