Operators look to drop prices from brochures

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Journal: TWUK	Section:
Title:	Issue Date: 03/07/00
Author:	Page Number: 72
Copyright: Other

 

 

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Main players seek to cut costs by printing just one edition

 

Operators look to drop prices from brochures

 

Report by TANYAJEFFERIES

LEADING tour operators are considering launching brochures without price panels in a move that would lead to massive costsavings.

 

 

Airtours Holidays and UKLG distribution managing director Richard Carrick said the move would allow companies to print just one edition of their brochure, which would direct customers to agents or separate sheets to find out prices. He estimates this would save operators hundreds of thousands of pounds every year.

 

 

“We should have one edition which becomes like a gazetteer and I will do it when I’ve got the nerve,” said Carrick. “Currently, brochures say check with agents for the latest prices, which says the brochures are only a guide.

 

 

“I reckon within six months, someone will do it and it will save a huge amount of money. There’s a risk in doing it alone but I would be more than happy to do it if others did.”

 

 

Carrick’s comments follow similar remarks made by JMC deputy managing director Terry Williamson, who wants to get rid of price panels because customers do not trust them.

 

 

“Everyone sees the brochure price but expects a deal,” he said (Travel Weekly June 12).

 

 

First Choice managing director Dermot Blastland said that changing brochure prices four times a year was outdated at a time when rates could be changed instantly on the Web. But he pointed out customers liked to see prices in brochures and any change would have to be handled carefully.

 

 

St Andrews Travel managing director Andrew Dickson said: “There needs to be an indication of price, so when people take a brochure, they can compare hotels A, B and C.”

 

 

Stowaway Travel director Paul Stowe said: “Every time a client comes in to get a brochure we would have to go through every price with them.”

 

 

n See Comment, page 8

 

 

Do we need them?Some operators think customers do not believe the price panels in brochures and expect a better deal