Norwegian coastal cruise company Hurtigruten will officially join Tipto on September 1, marking the first new supplier addition for the organisation in Year 26.
This strategic move aims to enhance Hurtigruten’s travel trade activities and extend its reach within the UK market, assisting in forging new connections and strengthening existing partnerships within the travel industry.
Strengthening Travel Trade Partnerships
By joining Tipto, Hurtigruten is set to significantly boost its presence in the travel trade. James Howlett, UK head of sales for Hurtigruten, expressed enthusiasm, stating, ‘We are absolutely thrilled to be joining Tipto for Year 26.’ Howlett emphasised the pivotal role of the trade in Hurtigruten’s success.
Hurtigruten aims to engage and support more agents than ever before, with the expanded role of Emily Conner as trade engagement lead and the return of David Chidley as UK account manager. This enhanced team structure is expected to drive deeper engagement with agent partners.
Expanding Product Line and Reach
Over the past year, Hurtigruten has broadened its product lines to showcase not only the iconic Original Coastal Express but also two premium cruise itineraries that highlight Norway’s most stunning locales.
Joining Tipto will allow Hurtigruten to educate a wider range of UK trade representatives on what makes the brand exceptional. This includes helping agents understand why Hurtigruten’s offerings are the perfect fit for their clients, thus broadening their marketing capabilities.
Tipto’s Support and Expertise
Richard Forde, Tipto chairman, highlighted the benefits of this partnership, noting that Tipto’s event format will help Hurtigruten reach more agents effectively.
Forde stated, ‘Our format will enable Hurtigruten to cement current relationships and build new ones.’ He elaborated that agents would benefit from Hurtigruten’s comprehensive training content and live roadshow appearances, enhancing their ability to sell Hurtigruten’s products.
The dynamic training and support provided by Tipto are expected to be crucial in helping Hurtigruten’s agents to better market and sell their cruise offerings.
Enhanced Engagement Strategies
Emily Conner, in her expanded role, will focus on deepening Hurtigruten’s trade engagements.
David Chidley, returning as the UK account manager, will work alongside Conner to implement innovative engagement strategies. These strategies aim to provide agents with the tools and knowledge needed to effectively market Hurtigruten’s offerings.
This collaborative effort is expected to yield stronger relationships with trade partners and enhance the overall visibility of Hurtigruten within the UK market.
Hurtigruten’s Commitment to Excellence
Hurtigruten’s commitment to excellence is evident in its continuous product innovation and focus on agent support. Howlett reaffirmed this dedication, stating, ‘Our mission is to engage and support more agents than ever before.’
The introduction of new premium itineraries showcases Hurtigruten’s dedication to providing unique and exceptional travel experiences along Norway’s coast.
Through its partnership with Tipto, Hurtigruten is poised to elevate its brand recognition and expand its reach in the competitive cruise market.
Hurtigruten’s Brand Legacy
Hurtigruten is renowned for its spectacular coastal cruise experiences. The brand’s longstanding reputation for excellence is a testament to its dedication to quality and service.
Howlett praised the brand, stating, ‘Hurtigruten is an incredible and well-loved brand, with some of the most spectacular product around.’ This strong brand foundation will be leveraged to engage more agents and customers.
The collaboration with Tipto represents a strategic step in Hurtigruten’s efforts to further solidify its position in the market and reach new heights of success.
Hurtigruten’s entry into Tipto as the first new supplier member of Year 26 marks a significant milestone in its strategic plans.
This alliance is set to bolster Hurtigruten’s engagement with travel trade agents, expand its market reach, and reinforce its brand presence within the UK, ultimately contributing to the cruise line’s long-term success.
