TOUR operators are expected to have to fork out around £20,000 to join the new independent organisation being set up by Cadogan Holidays managing director Gary David.
Although membership of the Truly Independent Professional Travel Organisation is free, operators will be asked to provide the finances for roadshows, national advertising, promotional drives and additional commission payments.
David estimated it will cost a minimum of £10,000 and a maximum of £35,000 per operator member and predicted operators would settle on a figure around £20,000.
“The activities such as advertising and roadshows are going ahead – it just depends on how much the operators are willing to spend,” he said. “However much they agree to spend, benefits will far outweigh the costs.”
More than 160 operators have shown an interest in TIPTO, only 20 of which will be able to participate.
A launch meeting will be held in London on May 25 to select the members.
“Many will drop out fairly quickly for one reason or another,” said David.
“We are looking for operators with a minimum capacity of 12,000, which will rule some out automatically.”
ABTA president Steven Freudmann will host next month’s meeting while Travelscene sales director John Harding, who has voiced his support for TIPTO, will be among the speakers.