Those old cynics in travel said ‘No, it won’t work!’Maybe they were frightened to take on a new idea.
But over 200 Advantage members took up the gauntlet of a new challenge and fired with enthusiasm, decided to give it a go.
Nobody liked the word franchise – especially with memories of Exchange Travel. But we hoped this would be totally new. Something had to fit in place that also kept within the realms of all the current laws and regulations being sent out of Brussels.
This was the approach that Advantage sought. Independent agents were getting tired of suppliers telling us what we could earn. Some members needed help with the new disciplines needed to gain the maximum benefit to members.
The speed at which the industry was consolidating was frightening. Anyone who had an eye on the future could see the signs.
A partnership was found with Airtours UKLGwho had the foresight to look to a new and exciting venture. We all knew things couldn’t stay the way they were.
Advantage did what no-one else would, forging a new and innovative concept.
Twelve months is a long time in travel, and over this period several areas of concern arose, and solutions proved more difficult than originally envisaged.
But both UKLG and Advantage have learned a lot. Advantage members can work in a co-operative way within a partnership with the right support.
So what now? I am still excited that there is a more positive way forward. Nothing worth having is ever easily achieved.
It may come in the form of tighter disciplines or achievable targets. It is important that all members pull together in the same direction. This is where our strength is.
If I have a market and I can work at growing this, why shouldn’t I be rewarded with a higher earning potential?
If I fail, why should I expect to be paid the same as members who do achieve?
As long as there is a level playing field and targets are realistically matched to a branch’s local market, so be it.
I’m proud that Advantage took this brave step. Let’s stop moaning and move forward and change.
I would like to add that in my personal opinion, Advantage’s former managing director, Ron Muir, did more than anyone else to try to make the franchise work. It is no reflection on Ron that the situation needs changing.
Congratulations Ron for the idea, let’s hope the association bears fruit from your initiative.
They say great oaks from little acorns grow.