Newmarket Holidays has credited the trade for influencing its growth as it plans to expand its offerings for solo travellers.
- Single travellers now make up 20% of Newmarket Holidays’ bookings, reflecting a rising trend.
- The operator’s Solo Traveller Collection has been expanded, with a target to double the number of solo travellers this year.
- Trade feedback has led Newmarket Holidays to adjust and enhance its offerings, including more twin stays and improved Japan tours.
- The potential growth of cruise products is being explored by the operator, highlighting its forward-thinking approach.
Newmarket Holidays acknowledges the significant role of trade feedback in shaping its expansion strategy, particularly in the solo travel sector. The operator notes that about 20% of its current bookings are from single travellers, up from 14% in 2021. This increase demonstrates a growing demand for solo travel experiences.
The Solo Traveller Collection, launched last year, targets solo travellers with group tour options and no single supplement. In November, the collection saw the addition of four exclusively solo tours, with further expansions planned. Chief executive Niel Alobaidi anticipates doubling the number of solo travellers in 2024 compared to 2023, with aspirations to double again in the coming years.
To accommodate this trend, Newmarket Holidays is increasing departure dates with no single supplement for various tours. The chief executive views this as an opportunity, with an expectation that many industry offerings will cater to solo travellers.
Trade feedback from agents has proven instrumental, leading to product enhancements such as more twin stay options combining African safaris with beach stays, and improvements to Japan tours. The importance of this relationship with travel agents is highlighted by the steady revenue growth they generate, which comprised 40% of Newmarket’s total sales in 2023.
Looking ahead, Niel Alobaidi hints at potential expansion into the cruise market, suggesting that Newmarket Holidays is keen on diversifying and broadening its travel offerings.
Newmarket Holidays continues to leverage trade insights to effectively meet the increasing demand for solo travel, while exploring new avenues for growth.
