SPECIALIST operator BAC Sport is stepping up its commitment to agents after signing a commercial agreement with Thomas Cook and appointing its first travel trade sales executive.
The deal is the first such arrangement BAC has had with a multiple, which will sell the product exclusively through its 800-strong branch network. Previously, the London-based operator primarily worked with around 185 independent agents. All tours are commissionable at 10%.
BAC Sport group managing director Graham Pasquill said: “We estimate that around 60% of our current business comes from the trade and with the new deal I am sure this figure will increase. In addition, we think BAC has a great deal to offer because we cover a wide range of events, not just football or golf, for example.”
He added that BAC sales executive Claire Holmes would help cultivate old and new trade relationships, as well as enhance BAC’s flexibility in sports programming.
A year’s major events are a key sales determinant – in 1997 the Ryder Cup was a big draw, as was the World Cup in 1998. This year, the company has introduced a range of key American football dates in association with the National Football League. Other key 1999 events include international football matches such as the Milan Derbies; Rugby World Cup qualifiers; World Championship Golf at Valderrama; and the Evander Holyfield/Lennox Lewis boxing rematch in Las Vegas.
BAC Sport has been offering packages and tailormade sports itineraries since 1997. Turnover is expected to reach £5.5m in 1999, up from £1.5m in 1997.
Company: part of the BAC group of companies including Business Air Centre aircraft charters; BAC Express operating airline; BACLeasing; and BAC aviation support.
Established: 1996
Commission: 10%
Programmes: offers package tours, individual travel and hospitality packages.
Current range: American football, European football, Formula One grand prix racing, the Rugby World Cup, horse racing and golf. Tailormade options include international boxing, tennis, cricket, baseball and basketball matches.
Sample package: three-night trip to see the Miami Dolphins against the New England Patriots in Miami. Lead-in price £597 including flights, transfers, game tickets, 3-star hotel and taxes.
Contact details: phone 020-7456 7100.