A&K seeks new customer base with product launch

A&K seeks new customer base with product launch
By admin


Upmarket operator Abercrombie & Kent unveiled a new brand of group tours last night as the firm looks to expand its reach and tap into a new customer base.

Australia will be one of three markets selling into A&K's new Connections product, a range of 16 tours catering for between 24 and 28 passengers. Each tour will have between four and seven departures with the first set to leave in March.

Australia will be joined by A&K's US and UK operations in selling into the tours.

A&K Australia managing director Sujata Raman said the product will cater for a "large sector" of people who don't want to travel on their own or find A&K's private touring "cost prohibitive".

Connections tours are up to 30% to 40% cheaper than the operator's ‘gold' category of private tours, she said.

Raman stressed the product will target and appeal to new clients rather than generate repeat business from past clients.

"There is demand for group tours and this is designed to create a new A&K customer base, it is not for our existing customers," she told Travel Today ahead of last night's gathering of agents. "It will make our product more accessible."

Connections group tours, while tapping into the expertise of A&K's onground offices, will not have the flexibility of private tours and in many cases will feature larger style accommodation, she said. Unlike Connections, A&K's private tours are "tailor-made by nature", she said.

Raman added that the new product could see more consultants begin selling A&K.

"Some travel agents are a bit nervous about selling A&K because of the price point but Connections will be an easy sell," she said.

Australia currently accounts for 25% of Connections global sales which Raman said was "better than expectations".

Latest News

  • Aviation
  • News

Air New Zealand adds Nathan McGraw and Scott Wilkinson to executive team

Air New Zealand has today made two new appointments to its executive team, appointing Nathan McGraw as Chief Safety and Risk Officer and Scott Wilkinson as Chief Commercial Officer. Nathan McGraw has worked in aviation for over thirty years, twenty of which have been with Air New Zealand. He has been heading integrated planning for […]

  • News

Caravan Living on the Rise: Aussies Seek Freedom, Flexibility, and Adventure on the Open Road

Caravanning in Australia is experiencing a remarkable surge in popularity, attracting a broad range of people seeking the freedom to live on their terms, Canvas8 data shows. As the cost of housing continues to climb, caravanning offers a flexible and affordable alternative that allows individuals to explore the vast Australian landscape while retaining the comforts […]

  • Cruise
  • Food & Beverage

Holland America Line refreshes Rudi’s Sel de Mer specialty restaurant

Holland America Line has announced it is updating Rudi’s Sel de Mer with a relaxed Mediterranean bistro fool aboard Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam. The intimate venue features casual but classic Mediterranean dishes that reflect the cuisine of regional countries including Italy, France, Spain, and Greece. The new concept is rolling out in January and February 2025. […]

  • Road & Rail

Man with a caravan provides expert tips for making the right choice

As caravan buying surges for new year holiday makers, Crusader Caravans has provided expert tips to help Aussies make the right choice for their rig. A particular problem amongst new, and even seasoned caravaners is unintentionally overloading their rigs. This poses a major safety risk, can void insurance pay outs, and is an offence with […]

  • Destinations

Touring the Calanques of Marseille by boat

Marseille, one of the highlights of France’s stunning Mediterranean coastline, beckons travellers with ancient charm, lively markets, and unbeatable summer vibes. It also serves as a gateway to one of southern France’s most stunning natural attractions: the Calanques. For those seeking a serene summer escape, embarking on a day tour of the Calanques offers an […]

  • News

Troy Haas joins The World Travel and Tourism Council

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has welcomed Brownell CEO Troy Haas to its distinguished membership, bringing unparalleled expertise in global luxury travel. Founded in 1887, Brownell is North America’s oldest travel agency, rooted in innovation since its inception. What started as a bold venture with 10 intrepid travellers aboard the SS Devonia to Switzerland, has […]