Travel Counsellors’ recent launch in WA is the first step towards chasing untapped travel opportunities in Australia, according to the company’s boss.
Managing Director Steve Byrne said at the agency’s annual conference in Canberra over the weekend, that there is ‘huge potential’ in the Australian travel market because more travellers are starting to recognise the value of booking with a trusted expert.
While the industry has shown concern over the number of travellers turning to online travel sites for bargains and quick bookings, ultimately Mr Byrne says there are more travellers who prefer personal service that can only come from an agent.
Travel Counsellors’ Steve Byrne sees big potential for the agency group.
Hoping to grab more of that untapped market, the company plans on investing further across the business and building its brand around Australia.
This includes more online and face-to-face training programs, development of in-house packing technology and further investment in the support team.
Travel Counsellors inspired after Steve Byrne’s speech.
Travel Counsellors also plans on recruited more agents to add to the existing 1,350 professionals around the world while encouraging consultants to be the best they can be.
“This is our time to make the most of the massive opportunity we have in the market.”
Steve Byrne, Travel Counsellors Managing Director
He added that in 2015 the home-based agency group plans to become Australia’s most trusted and highly regarded provider of travel service and advice.
“It’s an extremely exciting time for Travel Counsellors Australia, as we build on the unmatched support we offer you so you can achieve your full potential, as well as offering other travel professionals within the industry the opportunity to build flourishing travel businesses as part of a company that truly cares.”
After the hard work agents relaxed with some cocktails and leis.
Last year, Travel Counsellors saw its annual revenue climb to $80 million and global turnover to $850 million, with an average income per agent increasing by 15 percent.
In February, the group broke an old record by experiencing the highest sales day on 16 January. The company achieved a global sales total of $5.4 million – that’s $500,000 more than the same day 2013.
Mr Byrne attributes this success to Travel Counsellors brand essence of creating emotional connections, building integrity and trust and delivering a highly personal service to customers.
The company is projecting a turnover of $930 million this year, and a 40 percent increase over the next five years.
“I’m really excited about the direction Travel Counsellors is going in.”
Steve Byrne, Travel Counsellors Managing Director