| Journal: TWUK | Section: |
| Title: | Issue Date: 05/06/00 |
| Author: | Page Number: 35 |
| Copyright: Other |
in brief
in brief
We asked four high-street travel agents for their views of current operator programmes and services. For this week’s review, we called agents in and around Hemel Hempsteadto get their views onprogrammes to France. See how Cresta, Inghams, Crystal Holidays and Magic Travel Group performed under the spotlight.Compiled by Julie Baxter
HHHHH
Agents award stars for:
H Brochure design and ease of use
H Operator service and
support
H Product range and
quality
H Client feedback
H Product popularity
All agents remainanonymous and noadditional information will be given out.
Inghams
Brochure: Just France.
Agents’ verdicts: “Not a bad looking brochure but not one we get many supplies of.”
“It is not the most clearly laid-out brochure – you have to concentrate quite hard on it to match the right prices to the properties and the price panels are a bit too small.”
“Staff are helpful but it can be quite hard to get through.”
“The range is quite upmarket but it is not one that sells very well.”
“A good company but one we don’t really use for France. We turn to it as a last resort.”
Rating: HHH
Crystal Holidays
Brochure: Premier France.
Agents’ verdicts: “A nice-looking brochure which is well laid out and easy to follow.”
“A few clients know the range and regularly repeat book but most clients know Crystal more for UK holidays or skiing and don’t ask for France.”
“Staff are variable – some are really helpful but others have made mistakes.”
“A fair, middle-market range, not as comprehensive as some but competitively priced.”
Rating: HHH
Cresta Holidays
Brochure: Cresta France.
Agents’ verdicts: “This is one of the better-looking brochures for France – well set out and easy to understand.”
“Staff are generally very good when you ring, although some can be a bit off hand.”
“A pretty comprehensive range with some nice mid and upmarket resorts and interesting properties. Can be quite expensive but not really overpriced for what clients get.”
“Administration is quick and ticket packs are excellent with maps, stickers and information for the clients.”
Rating: HHHH
Top operator:
Magic Travel Group
Brochure: The Magic of France.Agents’ verdicts:
“A very nice-looking brochure with a classy feel to it. Inside there is lots of information about the properties and the resorts and the prices are easy to follow.”
“I find the reservations system can be very annoying but the staff are very friendly and always helpful especially with complex tailor-made itineraries.”
“Product is more upmarket than many, with lots of specialist properties and although it can be more expensive people are prepared to pay a bit extra for what they get.”
“Clients know and like the Magic name and many go back with them again and again.”
“Administration can be slow and sometimes needs chasing but it eventually comes through OK.”
“A good reliable range backed by a good, popular reputation.”
Rating: HHHHH