INDEPENDENT agents will work with an operator if it offers cheap prices and high commission levels while service is of little importance, research by Cyprus specialist Cyplon Holidays has revealed.
In a survey carried out among 2,000 agents, who were asked what their main reasons were for choosing a preferred operator, almost 30% said it was down to the price of the holiday while 25% said it was dependent on the level of commission. Service was way down the list with only 11% saying it was of paramount importance.
Cyplon managing director Harry Hajipapas said the results were “very disappointing.”
“What this is saying is that we would lose the booking to a cheaper operator irrespective of the service we offer,” said Hajipapas. “I suspect we are being used as a point of reference for agents who gather information from us and make the booking with another operator.
“This shows that independent agents sell what is cheapest and earns them the most money.”
He added that increasing demands for more commission and incentives was driving up prices.
The results emerged as the London-based operator released its 1999/2000 winter brochures.
Cypriot village houses have been introduced for the first time having made their debut in the operator’s 1999 summer brochure.
Special millennium features include a three-day cruise to Egypt and Israel which start on December 29 with millennium night in Manger Square in Bethlehem.
Hajipapas said he was looking to increase winter carryings from 5,000 to 7,500.