| Journal: TWUK | Section: |
| Title: | Issue Date: 07/08/00 |
| Author: | Page Number: 6 |
| Copyright: Other |
Membership reduction
Harding assures future for TIPTO
THE CHAIRMAN of the Truly Independent Professional Travel Organisation has insisted that its future is secure despite the declining number of members.Travelscene sales director John Harding said the group can comfortably manage with its current membership of 25.
TIPTO has been hit in recent weeks by the departure of operators representing the cruising, self-drive and Turkey markets.
Sunquest was forced to withdraw after being acquired by Airtours, Festival Cruises pulled out following its now-abandoned merger with P&O Cruises and founder member French Life left after claiming TIPTO was not cost effective.
Harding said TIPTO has opened talks with several potential replacements and stressed the organisation was here to stay.
“We are not compelled to fill the three vacancies as TIPTO can continue to operate with a strong base of 25,” he said.
“But we are delighted we are attracting interest and would be pleased to hear from other companies who might wish to take up one of the available places.”
Harding declined to reveal who talks are taking place with or when a decision will be made.
“A decision is some weeks away,” he said.
Harding admitted he was surprised at French Life’s withdrawal but stressed all other operators had backed the organisation.
“It was the only company that did not want to renew its membership,” he said.
Membership of TIPTO costs £25,000 per year and gives companies jointly funded marketing activity targeting independent agents.
It is planning to adopt a new approach to training in its second year with more learning packs sent to agents.
The move follows a poor response to training days held in the first 12 months.
Onward: Harding said TIPTO is definitely here to stay