Midconsort targets Triton members

Midconsort is actively attempting to poach members from superpower Triton Travel Group with a direct marketing campaign.

The consortium will mail out ‘10 Reasons To Join Midconsort’ to independents across the country next month. Worldchoice members will be excluded because of a deal between the two groups.

The document focuses on Midconsort’s commission rates, a policy of individual targets, and the possibility of free membership if targets are hit.

Chief executive Charles Eftichiou claimed many members of Advantage, Worldchoice and Global Travel Group ­ which make up Triton ­do not believe the giant organisation is best suited to look after their interests and may want to switch.

“There is unhappiness at Triton and we¹re capitalising on that,” said Eftichiou. “Members see Triton has no more muscle to stop operators cutting commission. We want to preserve our independence.”

Eftichiou said one former Midconsort member and two Global agents had already switched, although he was reluctant to reveal names. But he revealed the 120-strong Midconsort group is considering employing a sales rep in a separate bid to woo independents.

Triton chairman Colin Heal ruled out any retaliation.

“In the past, such action has rebounded, with groups gaining some members but losing others,” he said.

Meanwhile, Freedom Travel Group has sent letters to independents to attract new members. The consortium is preparing to announce its 100th member, having just recruited Low Cost Holidays, owned by Travel Weekly columnist Paul Evans.