InteleTravel has appointed advisor Dee Shahzad as its first Ambassador in Ireland as it reports record bookings for June and “soaring” revenues.
Shahzad has more than 20 years’ experience in the travel industry and in her new role will mentor other advisors, support training and co-present at InteleTravel events.
Her route to becoming an Ambassador took more than a year and Dee had to complete various training modules and prove her worth as a presenter.
More: InteleTravel defends business model after ‘side hustle’ jibe
InteleTravel acquires majority stake in Major Travel for undisclosed sum
She said: “I think what InteleTravel offers is amazing and I want to help other advisors succeed.
“I took the role because I have experience and knowledge. I’m looking forward to representing InteleTravel in a professional manner and also representing Ireland at the annual conference in Sorrento in October.”
InteleTravel now has more than 700 advisors in Ireland and reported that June revenues rose 57% year on year.
Its average booking value rose by 23% to €1,202 in June, while the top booking from an advisor that month was €64,700 for a holiday to Disneyland Paris.
Overall, revenues so far in 2024 are up 75% compared with the same period last year.
A one-off joining fee of €142 and the ongoing monthly cost of €32 allows advisors to gradually expand their customer base – with some working full-time while others are part-time.
One of InteleTravel’s suppliers in Ireland is Travel Solutions, whose operations director Julie Magill said business was steadily growing.
“A lot of requests from Ireland are for summer sun, short breaks, the US and skiing. Business is building steadily and we really feel it’s the tip of the iceberg,” she said.
Tricia Handley-Hughes, UK and Ireland managing director, added: “We always knew there was a demand in Ireland, but this has exceeded our expectations.
“Our partners are delighted with our progress and our plan is to go from strength to strength.”