| Journal: TWUK | Section: |
| Title: | Issue Date: 02/10/00 |
| Author: | Page Number: 44 |
| Copyright: Other |
Niche operator joins CARTA to forge agent ties
Special-interest holidays are increasing in popularity. Liz Bird reports on how one company wants to sell more through the trade
THE GRAND Touring Club has joined the Campaign for Real Travel Agents scheme to help push its classic-car breaks through the trade.
Managing director Nick Brimblecombe said the high-value product could be extremely lucrative for independent agents, who receive 10% commission on the sale of any three-night, hotel-inclusive package.
“All our current bookings are direct but this is a great opportunity for agents to sell a high-value product,” said Brimblecombe.
As part of the Association of Independent Tour Operators-backed CARTA scheme, participating agents are given training on the product and provided with sales literature.
“Agents can also book just the hire of the car but will need to add a fee on top,” he added.
Brimblecombe said the packages were mainly booked by women buying an anniversary or birthday present.
The Grand Touring Club can also arrange themed corporate and incentive trips around Suffolk, which are commissionable for agents. Other products include 2CV trips to the south of France and car rallies.
A three-night weekend break including hire of the DB6 Vantage and accommodation at the Angel Hotel in Bury St Edmunds costs £665 per person based on two people sharing a double or twin room with the Grand Touring Club. The price includes bed, breakfast and table d’hote, car insurance and 24-hour breakdown assistance. A full briefing on the car, route maps and suggested itineraries are also provided.
Other cars available include Jaguar E-Type DHC V12 auto, Jaguar Mk 11, Jaguar XK120 Roadster, Ferrari Dino 246GT, Bentley Continental S1 and Triumph Stag.
All independent agents can earn 10% commission on a three-night, hotel-inclusive package. A choice of characterful hotels are available throughout the county.
Raring to go: Liz Bird takes to the wheel of a Aston Martin DB6 Vantage