Jet2holidays will hold its first virtual holiday show later this month, after receiving “phenomenal feedback” from agents who joined its new series of virtual events in July.
The operator’s inaugural virtual holiday show will be on August 20 in partnership with Bradford agency Idle Travel.
The online show will be the latest event in the Virtual Partners2Success programme which launched last month.
During July, the operator carried out 170 virtual agency visits and 70 virtual key account meetings with owners, directors and managers. It hosted almost 1,000 agents in its virtual training events.
The virtual holiday shows will be held jointly with travel agency partners, targeting their existing and potential new customers.
Up to 90 customers can register for the half-hour holiday show on Zoom, which will feature videos, recommendations and offers. The event also aims to build consumer confidence by explaining what travellers can expect when they go on holiday.
Alan Cross, head of trade at Jet2holidays, said: “ Customers will come away knowing that booking an Atol-protected package holiday with Jet2holidays through an independent travel agent, where they will receive bespoke advice, wisdom and expertise, means they are putting themselves in the very best hands.”
He added: “Since we launched [the virtual programme], the feedback from independent travel agents has been phenomenal and has exceeded even our best expectations.
“Not only are agents appreciative of the regular interaction that they get with us, but they are seeing the commercial impact too.
“We have been able to talk to agents about the opportunities that the summer 20 lates market presents, as well as looking ahead to future programmes such as winter 21-22, and this has equipped them with the knowledge and skills to successfully sell to their customers.”
The online sessions have helped agents find out about the Jet2holidays customer experience, from arriving at the airport to staying at the hotel.
“This assurance has been very well received, by both agents and their customers alike,” said Cross.
The virtual visits also help Jet2holidays to understand the issues faced by agents.
“We have been able to stay abreast of agents’ furlough plans, for example, meaning we understand the resource they have available and can tailor our approach to fit that,” said Cross.