Hurtigruten, a renowned Norwegian coastal cruise company, is set to become Tipto’s first new supplier member for Year 26. This strategic move marks a significant effort to enhance its travel trade activities in the UK.
- Starting September 1, Hurtigruten plans to actively participate in Tipto’s events, seeking to strengthen and expand relationships with travel agents.
- James Howlett, UK head of sales, emphasizes the critical role of travel trade in Hurtigruten’s UK market strategy, aiming for unprecedented engagement with agents.
- The company highlights new premium cruise itineraries and expands its product lines, showcasing Norway’s captivating coastal experiences.
- Tipto’s chairman welcomes Hurtigruten, anticipating that its unique offerings will complement the organisation’s cruise portfolio and benefit participating agents.
Hurtigruten, a highly esteemed name in Norwegian coastal cruises, is poised to enhance its presence in the UK market by joining Tipto. As the first new supplier member of Year 26, Hurtigruten seeks to invigorate its travel trade initiatives by engaging actively with Tipto’s established network of agent partners. This move aims to not only solidify existing relationships but also forge new connections, thereby broadening its influence within the industry.
With a formal commencement on September 1, Hurtigruten aims to leverage Tipto’s platform to augment its interactions with travel agents across the UK. James Howlett, Hurtigruten’s UK head of sales, articulates the importance of the travel trade sector to their success in the region. Howlett’s vision for Hurtigruten is to exceed previous levels of engagement with agent partners, facilitated by active participation in Tipto events and a strengthened network.
Hurtigruten’s commitment is further underscored by the appointment of Emily Conner as trade engagement lead, alongside the strategic return of David Chidley as UK account manager. These personnel changes are expected to bolster the company’s outreach and support capabilities within the UK travel market. Hurtigruten prides itself on offering renowned coastal journeys, and recent expansion of its product lines includes new premium cruise options designed to showcase Norway’s natural allure.
The integration into Tipto is not merely about enhancing visibility; it is about education and collaboration. By becoming part of Tipto, Hurtigruten intends to educate UK trade agents about the distinctive nature of its offerings, which are designed to cater to clients seeking exceptional travel experiences. The grandeur of the Original Coastal Express alongside new tailor-made itineraries is set to elevate the company’s status within the UK travel sector.
Tipto’s chairman, Richard Forde, expressed enthusiasm for Hurtigruten’s inclusion, highlighting the additional value it brings to the organisation’s robust cruise credentials. Forde is confident that Tipto’s event format will serve as a catalyst for Hurtigruten’s agent outreach, fostering both existing relationships and forging new ones. The training content and live roadshow participation are anticipated to be invaluable to agents engaging with Hurtigruten’s offerings.
Hurtigruten’s strategic alliance with Tipto promises to significantly bolster its UK travel trade connections, enhancing its market influence.
