New Classic Collection Holidays boss Andy Freeth has been tasked with devising an ambitious strategy for the business to include maximising growth opportunities in the long-haul sector.
The former JG Travel Group boss, who has previously worked at long-haul operators If Only and Gold Medal/Travel 2, has replaced Oliver Garner as chief executive of the parent company of tour operator Classic Collection and trade-only brand Classic Package Holidays.
Freeth stepped down from his role as chief executive of JG Travel Group, parent company of National Holidays, Just Go! Holidays, Omega Breaks and Albion Journeys, in September. He had worked for the domestic operator since January 2021.
Referring to his new role, he said: “My specific brief is to continue the fantastic work that has already been done. The business has just had a rebrand that has been well received.
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“There is an opportunity to grow sales of long-haul destinations, particularly in the luxury space. Long-haul is going to be a big growth area for the business while maintaining our short-haul sales growth.”
Classic Collection, traditionally a short-haul, luxury specialist, added long-haul holidays to its portfolio in 2019. This week it launched its first Indian Ocean and Arabia brochure.
Sales growth would also come from a destination review, added Freeth, and plans have already been announced to make Classic Collection’s simpler itineraries bookable online by the end of the year.
Freeth said there was scope to increase sales of Classic Package Holidays among agents in the “dynamic packaging space”.
“I suspect where we have an opportunity with Classic Package Holidays is with agents who have previously dynamically packaged holidays under their own or their consortium’s Atol,” he said.
Freeth will spend the next couple of months “getting to know, and listening to, the teams and talent” and putting together a “clearly defined strategy”.
About 120 agents are due to attend Classic Collection’s conference and awards in Cyprus in December.
“That will be a great opportunity to meet agents and get their feedback,” he said.
Simon Cooper, chief executive of On the Beach, parent company of Classic Collection Holidays, said: “Andy has a huge amount of experience in tour operating and in leading B2B travel businesses through fast-paced growth.”
Garner left the business this week to “seek a new challenge”.
More: Classic Collection Holidays unveils new logos in brand refresh