Advantage Travel Partnership aims to double Latitude members to 600 by year-end.
- Jonny Peat anticipates robust cruise sales and revenue growth.
- Significant earnings from cruise-related income despite economic challenges.
- Focus on training and expanding cruise sector expertise for members.
- Ongoing investments cementing cruise as a thriving sector.
The Advantage Travel Partnership is on a promising track to expand its Latitude cruise community membership to 600 by the year’s close. During the recent Latitude cruise conference, Jonny Peat emphasised the importance of these gatherings for sharing insights and fostering business improvements among partners.
Jonny Peat expressed optimism in the conference, highlighting the ability of members to elevate cruise sales and increase revenue significantly. He noted an average commission rate of 15% on cruise bookings, which is ahead of other sectors. “Not only are we selling more cruise packages, but at higher prices,” Peat remarked with appreciation for the collective efforts.
The commitment to growing financial returns is evident. Over the past year, members received an additional £1 million from cruise-related endeavors. Kelly Cookes pointed out these earnings stem from various opportunities such as uplifts and incentives secured by the team, amplifying the membership’s financial success.
Despite rising living costs and geopolitical uncertainties, cruise demand remains robust. Cookes shared survey results showing 72% of members reported increased interest in cruising. This growth is indicative of the sector’s resilience and its appeal in the travel market.
Future plans are in place to bolster Advantage’s status as a leading cruise partner. These include enhancing training programmes for cruise sellers at all expertise levels and organising more on-board experiences for members. Focus areas in the coming year will be river, luxury, and expedition cruises, as well as expanding engagements through regional ports.
Gordon Wilson concluded the conference by confirming a 35% increase in bookings from Advantage members for Ambassador Cruise Line and a new influx of agencies booking for the first time. This upward trend further affirms the positive trajectory forecasted by Advantage’s leadership.
Advantage’s strategic initiatives and strong performance suggest a thriving future for its cruise sector.
