Thomson set for new Preferred Agent move

Report by Jane Archer

THOMSON is asking Preferred Agents to hand over their clients’ details so call centre staff can phone them and suggest they buy car rental, excursions and other holiday add-ons.

Thomson is understood to be keen to start the scheme after the new year peak-booking period. It would allow call-centre staff to tell clients about any extras they can buy and direct them back to their preferred agent to book.

They will also use the information to follow up direct mailings to clients in the agents’ name.

A spokeswoman emphasised that Thomson staff would be calling on the agents’ behalf and would not sell either the holiday or the extras themselves. The scheme would be voluntary.

“It is designed to encourage clients to go back to their preferred agent,” she added.