WE are all well aware of directional selling by the multiples and we’ve read the news that the big boys have bought and will continue to acquire smaller specialist operators and travel agencies – increasing their business portfolio and reducing the choice for people walking in from the street.
Competition is fierce and we have been aware that we could lose business because of directional selling for some time now.
I read that Cadogan Holidays plans to strike a deal with independent agents promising them higher commission in exchange for guaranteed racking and increased sales (Travel Weekly February 17).
Cadogan Holidays wants to join forces with a band of around 15 operators, which will then look to work with up to 700 agents.
Great idea, but as a specialist operator we have been supporting the independent agents for some time now.
We have been offering 18% commission on all Priceright Holidays to Greece and Cyprus since last October.
In the same period of time, we’ve hosted agents’ evenings at a number of UKairports plus an independents only educational to Cyprus – all of which have been very successful and informative, increasing our overall bookings from independent agents.
Kim Wonnacott
Sales and marketing manager
Libra Group
Barnet
Herts
n Editor’s note:what’s your experience as an independent? Do you think Cadogan’s plan is a good one?Write to us at the address on the left.