National Geographic Expeditions believes a new partnership with Fred Holidays will help the brand achieve its “very ambitious targets for the UK”.
Suffolk-based Fred Holidays has been appointed as general sales agent and will be responsible for all commercial agreements with agents. It will offer 10% commission for bookings, while helping to support the trade to sell National Geographic’s land expedition programme of more than 40 small‑group itineraries.
National Geographic Expeditions announced its intention to sell through agents in the UK at the end of last year, having primarily focused on the North American market previously.
The move to sell through Fred Holidays includes pricing trips in pounds and provides financial protection under Fred’s existing Abta and Atol bonding.
Nathan Philpot, travel director at National Geographic Expeditions, said the tours, at an average price point of £10,000 (excluding flights), offered agents significant earning opportunities.
“It is exciting for travel agents to begin promoting these tours in the UK and give luxury travellers the opportunity to see the world through National Geographic’s eyes,” Philpot said.
Steve Williams, managing director of Fred Holidays, added: “We have successfully introduced and represented a number of brands to the UK market and I look forward to adding National Geographic to our portfolio.”
Tour operator Fred Holidays is part of UK company Fred Olsen, which also includes the agency chain Fred Olsen Travel.
A 112-page brochure is available through Fred Holidays: email sales@fredholidays.co.uk.