Australian cruise retail newcomer Cruise Holidays is hopeful its new technology system will help it win over agents considering making the move to a home-based network.
Managing director Les Farrar told Travel Today CruiseMart was drawn to a partnership with the North American cruise agency chain by its reservation system which has been purpose-built entirely around cruise.
He said the cutting edge technology would give the firm “new leverage” and would enable consultants to target clients in a more efficient manner via a customer relationship management tool built in to the system.
“Most other firms don’t have that,” he said.
Over the next few months, the cruise specialist will roll out a scheme for home-based agents offering technical and marketing services along with in-house support. According to Farrar, it would be differentiated from other such schemes by its offer of “on behalf marketing” with features such as email newsletters.
“We think it will be attractive for consultants who are considering a home-based shop, but don’t want to lose the benefits,” he said.
Franchises will also be a focus for the chain, with a new affiliate scheme also to be rolled out down the line.
While the new partnership will enable its Australian agents to tap into charters and specialist groups organised by its US counterparts, Farrar stressed the business would maintain its relationships with Australian business partners and would not be transacting through the US.
