InteleTravel has called upon industry professionals to report any unprofessional conduct observed among their agents. The company is also scrutinising its recruitment communications amidst growing concerns about compliance.
- InteleTravel’s UK managing director seeks direct reports of inappropriate agent behaviour on social media, indicating a proactive stance against breaches.
- Tricia Handley-Hughes highlights the recent emergence of issues related to agent conduct and recruitment messaging, prompting a comprehensive review.
- Despite criticisms, InteleTravel remains committed to collaboration among homeworking businesses to strengthen industry standards.
- Acknowledging the diverse nature of their agents, InteleTravel defends its model against criticism from established agencies.
InteleTravel has issued a call to action for industry professionals to report any instances of unprofessional behaviour by their agents, particularly on social media platforms. The UK managing director, Tricia Handley-Hughes, emphasised the importance of maintaining integrity and adherence to the rules, urging individuals to bring any extraordinary conduct to her attention directly. This move underlines the agency’s active efforts to police its network of agents effectively.
Handley-Hughes admitted that a minority of agents have posed challenges by revealing commission levels or promoting agent-rate deals for personal holidays. These actions have prompted a thorough investigation into the recruitment messaging that has been circulated by their partner, PlanNet Marketing. This review comes in light of the fact that the last evaluation of these messages was conducted over two years ago, and emerging issues have necessitated a fresh assessment and stricter oversight.
In response to ongoing criticism, particularly from established agencies such as Designer Travel, Handley-Hughes advocated for greater collaboration within the homeworking business sector. She suggested that even an annual meeting could foster a better appreciation of industry trends and mutual business understanding. Despite the differing business models, she insisted on the importance of listening, respect, and kindness within the industry.
Since expanding into the UK market in 2018, InteleTravel has rapidly grown its network to include over 20,000 agents across the UK and Ireland. While the agency’s model, which includes agents working for supplementary income, has faced scrutiny, Handley-Hughes defended their approach. She acknowledged concerns raised by figures such as Amanda Matthews from Designer Travel, who critiqued the side-hustle nature of some agents, yet she emphasised that many have successfully transitioned into full-time travel business roles.
InteleTravel continues to prioritise compliance and collaboration to foster a responsible and thriving travel agency community.
