First Class Holidays is to offer pre-bookable video appointments for travel agents’ clients when they come into the branch to discuss a booking.
This will allow agents’ clients to speak directly to the operator’s travel specialists face to face on a Zoom video call to get advice while in their local agency planning a holiday.
The move comes as agents begin re-opening their shops, mainly by appointment-only with a locked door policy.
Managing director Dan Gathercole hopes the move will help agents to convert more sales.
He said: “The last few months have been very difficult for everyone, but it’s great to finally see agents opening up their doors.
“With most agents operating on a closed door, appointment only basis, this service gives them the opportunity to maximise their time by knowing that they can talk to us during their client appointment.
“It guarantees we are on hand when the customer comes in. We believe that by introducing one of our experts via Zoom, the agent can utilise our experience.”
Traditionally, the operator would host events for agents to attend and increase their product knowledge. Gathercole said the video appointments were another way for agents and clients to see their specialists face to face.
He said: “Our sales team take part in regular events in store with our agents, so their clients can meet the experts face to face. This is a way of expanding on this idea via a video call.”
Agents must book the appointments 24 hours in advance. The appointments can be any length and are available between 9am and 9pm.
For agents who do not use Zoom, the operator is offering pre-booked appointments by telephone.
Gathercole added agents have coped well during the pandemic. He said: “Agents should be congratulated with the way they have handled the situation. Hopefully we are over the hill now and we can still salvage something from 2020.”