The Leading Cruise Agents of the UK is to launch its first national advertising campaign to drive sales for its members during National Cruise Week.
The advertisements, which start on September 4 ahead of the start of National Cruise Week on September 7, will be the first of many campaigns, said chairwoman Clare Dudley.
The association will allow agent members to buy a slot within its dedicated LCA advertisements in travel sections in national newspapers to promote their businesses, while cruiseline members can use the space for specific offers. The ads will also promote the LCA’s website.
The four-week campaign aims to make consumers aware of the LCA as a voice for specialist agents and cruise operators for first-time and experienced cruise holidaymakers. The association has nearly 100 agent members and 15 cruiselines, and is also recruiting affiliate members such as airports and cruise ports.
Chairwoman Clare Dudley said traditionally smaller agents struggle to advertise in national newspapers because of the cost.
She added: “We believe this is a first for the industry with various agents and cruiselines all participating together for a common goal. Both members and associate cruiselines, who would not normally be able to afford to promote themselves in the national press, have jumped at the chance to be part of this promotion. There is no better time to shout about the LCA.”
Look out for a full interview with Clare Dudley in this week’s Travel Weekly and on www.travelweekly.co.uk later this week.