Tipto unveils Club Med as one of two new members

Club Med is to continue its engagement drive with UK agents by joining independent operators’ organisation Tipto.

The addition of Club Med from September 1, along with an as-yet-unnamed second new member, comes as Tipto prepares for its 28th year of agent training and support.

The total membership will remain at 26, with Playa Hotels – now owned and operated by Hyatt Hotels – and DriveAway departing.

Tipto chairman Vishal Patel announced the two new members at a VIP event on the Thames in London attended by 80 guests, including 24 members and 48 agents.

He told guests the organisation had enjoyed a “fantastic” past 12 months, during which more than 2,000 agents had attended more than 35 events, including roadshows and SuperShows.

Following confirmation of Club Med joining, he said: “Club Med’s premium all-inclusive offering diversifies Tipto’s portfolio, offering our agent community the opportunity to bolster their knowledge and use Club Med’s support to better their sales potential.”

Jemma Bridges, head of trade sales at Club Med, said: “The travel agent community remains at the heart of Club Med’s success, and joining Tipto represents another important step in strengthening our relationships with our valued trade partners.

“Through Tipto, we will have the opportunity to engage with agents and ensure they have the knowledge and confidence to sell our premium all-inclusive resorts worldwide.”

The Tipto announcement came as Patel was promoted to chief executive of tailor-made specialist Travelpack, where he has been a director since 2004.

The operator said Patel would take control of the business as it eyes “rapid, sustainable expansion”, with priorities including investment in technology and strengthening of global trade partnerships.

Patel said: “It’s an incredible honour to step into the role of CEO at such a pivotal moment
in Travelpack’s journey. 

“Our recent growth is a direct result of our relentless focus on trade partnerships, exceptional product breadth and operational reliability.”

Vishal’s father Ashok Patel remains chairman of the company, which was founded in 1981.