Classic Collection has reshaped its trade structure to better address changes in the travel agency landscape.
- Leanne Edwards will oversee retail sales partnerships with the support of regional sales managers for different UK regions.
- Jorge Quibell takes charge of strategic partnerships, complemented by a team of account managers.
- The introduction of a new travel agent training academy is set to further enhance trade engagement.
- Si Morris-Green emphasises the importance of adapting to industry shifts in their operations.
In an effort to better navigate the changing dynamics of the travel agency sector, Classic Collection has undertaken a significant restructuring of its trade team. This strategic move aims to ensure a more effective concentration on expanding key business areas. As part of this initiative, Leanne Edwards will spearhead retail sales partnerships, supported by regional sales managers Ashleigh Raymond for the North and Scotland, Adam Courtney for the Midlands and Northern Ireland, and Harry Williams for the South of England.
Jorge Quibell has been appointed to oversee strategic partnerships, focusing on homeworkers, independents, core agents, and consortia members. His team will consist of account managers Kim Sellman, Lucy Barton, and Sarah Ayling-Webster, who will manage and nurture these essential relationships. In addition to this, the account managers will be actively visiting agents and homeworkers to bolster commercial ties.
Classic Collection is also expanding its support for agents with the introduction of two new trade sales support executives, dedicated to assisting independent and core agents as well as strategic partners. This forms part of their broader strategy to offer comprehensive support to their diverse agent network, ensuring that all partners receive the assistance they require to maximise sales and engagement.
The company is set to launch a new travel agent training academy later this month, designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of agents across their network. This initiative is part of their commitment to support agents whether they opt to sell via the 24/7/365 agent-only portal or the Select by Classic Collection contact centre. These developments signify a dedicated approach to reinforce their trade partnerships.
Si Morris-Green, B2B Director of Classic Collection, stressed the necessity of reshaping their focus to align with the evolving landscape of travel agencies. He noted the importance of targeting the different types of agent partners effectively, whether they are high street multiples, miniples, independents, or homeworkers. The company’s recently expanded product range is anticipated to contribute positively to the ongoing sales efforts with their trade partners.
This strategic refocusing indicates a proactive response to the evolving travel agency landscape.
