| Journal: TWUK | Section: |
| Title: | Issue Date: 28/08/00 |
| Author: | Page Number: 57 |
| Copyright: Other |
in brief
We asked four high-street travel agents for their views of current operator programmes and services. For this review, we called agents in and aroundLichfield, Staffordshire to get their views onprogrammes to Tunisia. See how CadoganHolidays, Panorama, First Choice and JMC 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.
Cadogan Holidays
Brochure: Tunisia.
Agents’ verdict: “Quite an attractive brochure with plenty of information inside and a straightforward layout.”
“Cadogan is not a company clients ask for by name nor one they associate with Tunisia but one they are happy to consider if we put it forward.”
“No computer reservations but staff are generally helpful and seem to know what they are talking about.”
“The range is middle to upmarket, based on scheduled flights and with private transfers. This tends to make the product more expensive than most.”
Rating: HHH
JMC
Brochure: Tunisia.
Agents’ verdict: “An appealing brochure that seems to give a rather more authentic Tunisian flavour rather than just looking like any old destination.”
“Plenty of information inside – and all easy to follow.”
“Not a company that springs to mind for Tunisia but a fair, middle-market range that appeals to families. Pretty well priced – especially for two-star accommodation.”
“Brochure supplies are sometimes rather limited. Might sell more if we had more brochures – feedback is generally fine.”
Rating: HHHH
First Choice
Brochure: Summer Sun.
Agents’ verdict: “This brochure doesn’t have a huge range of product to Tunisia but it is one we turn to because it is easy to follow. The reservations system is quick and easy to use and if you need to speak to someone the staff are helpful.”
“Not one clients ask for specifically but the company name is well known and popular with families. Packages can be a little more expensive than other operators but feedback is extremely positive.”
Rating: HHHH
Top operator:
Top operator:Panorama
Brochure: Tunisia.
Agents’ verdict: “A nice looking brochure that is clear and easy to follow for both agents and consumers.”
“Plenty of information and advice, and pricing is straightforward and simple to calculate.”
“A good range of mostly four and five-star properties, plus a few three star, all competitively priced.”
“Flexible holiday durations – three nights, seven week, 10 nights or a fortnight – and lots of good discounts and special offers.”
“Any client who knows Tunisia also knows Panorama and many make repeat bookings. The loyalty vouchers issued with each booking encourage clients to come back and are a goodincentive.”
“Not the best reservations system in the world but staff are helpful and administration is usually efficient.”
“Definitely the one we sell most and we never have anycomplaints.”
Rating: HHHHH