Riviera Travel aims for a substantial growth in passenger numbers, setting a target to double the current figures by 2030. The company, which currently serves approximately 100,000 passengers annually, plans to elevate this to 200,000 by the end of the decade.
Speaking at their 40th anniversary in Paris, CEO Phil Hullah announced the ambitious plan, highlighting growth opportunities in both European and long-haul river tours. He emphasised the company’s strategy to enhance market share without solely relying on new product introductions.
Strategic Growth Areas
Riviera Travel’s CEO, Phil Hullah, has identified the touring sector as a significant growth opportunity. He believes the key to achieving the target lies in expanding their current river cruise and tour offerings in both short-haul and long-haul markets. ‘By gaining more market share in these areas, we anticipate substantial growth,’ he shared.
The company is not just focusing on introducing new packages but aims to improve existing ones. Hullah stressed the importance of diversification in current offerings to stimulate growth. This strategy is expected to drive a considerable increase in passenger numbers, facilitating the doubling of their clientele by 2030.
Focus on Short-Haul Tours
The expansion in short-haul tours is projected to be the most significant factor in the short-term growth of passenger numbers. Hullah sees a promising future in optimising and expanding these offerings to meet the rising demand for shorter trips.
Riviera Travel is gearing up to capture a larger audience by refining short-haul products, which are increasingly popular among travellers seeking quick getaways. These tours are poised to become a core component of their growth strategy, reflecting consumer trends towards more frequent, shorter breaks.
Accountability Benchmarks
The operator has set three key benchmarks to ensure accountability: extending customer reach, evolving holiday experiences, and maintaining high guest satisfaction.
By focusing on these elements, Riviera Travel intends to enhance its reputation and attract a broader customer base. These benchmarks serve as a roadmap to achieving their ambitious growth goals, with the company closely monitoring their progress along each criterion.
Hullah stated, ‘If we get those three things right, the business will grow and we will prosper.’ This highlights the company’s commitment to achieving its targets through careful planning and execution.
Trade Partnerships
Vicky Billing, head of trade partnerships for the UK & Ireland, stated that Riviera Travel is heavily investing in strengthening relationships with trade partners. Agents are considered essential in reaching the 200,000 passenger target by 2030.
Billing emphasised the operator’s dedication to supporting their partners, stating that expanding the network of agents is crucial. By enhancing trade sales teams and investing in support, Riviera Travel aims to foster mutually beneficial relationships that will facilitate growth.
Strengthening Trade Relationships
Riviera Travel recognises the indispensability of trade partners to its growth strategy. The operator is committed to expanding its trade sales and support teams to ensure agents have the necessary resources.
Fostering these relationships is seen as a cornerstone of their strategy. By doing so, the company can reach a wider range of potential customers, driving their goal to double passenger figures.
Billing articulated the need for collaborative growth: ‘We need the trade to support us so we have to support them.’ Such symbiotic partnerships are vital for hitting the ambitious target.
The Role of Innovation
Innovation remains at the heart of Riviera Travel’s strategy. The company is not only expanding existing offerings but also looking into new ways to enhance the overall customer experience.
By integrating innovative practices, such as improved customer service and streamlined booking processes, they aim to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. This focus on innovation is designed to strengthen their market position and attract a diverse clientele.
Commitment to Growth
Riviera Travel’s commitment to growth is evident in their strategic planning and ambitious targets. With a focus on expanding existing markets and enhancing customer experience, they are strategically positioned to reach their 2030 goals.
Riviera Travel’s strategic vision to double its passenger numbers by 2030 is built upon a commitment to market expansion, trade partnerships, and innovation. By refining their offerings and strengthening trade relationships, the company is poised to achieve significant growth in the coming years.
