It was predictable to hear how Brian Cowburn of Bury Travel was put on the spot by Radio 5 Live who were putting a negative spin on the Millennium Dome when it launched its ticket sales recently. Concerns were expressed over the cost of visiting for those who would need to stay in London.
I’m sure there’s more negative press to come, but, let’s focus on the positives.
Even the most conservative estimates suggest there will be 5m domestic visitors to the Dome during its 12-month life, of which over a third will be booking accommodation and maybe rail travel also. That’s an inclusive package market opportunity of 1.6m people minimum. The Dome has a chance of being the mostexciting attraction the UKhas ever seen.
As an example, adults can buy return rail from Scotland, two nights’ three-star accommodation in London with Goldenrail, ticket to the Dome and return river-boat transfers for just £128 – all commissionable to agents.
In my book that’s great value. So come on retailers, let’s all maximise the sales opportunity, not talk ourselves out of business.
Ian Mounser
Sales director
Superbreak Mini-Holidays
York