What does it take to be an award winning agency group? Quality members, according to the Magellan Travel Group.
And they would know.
The team over at Magellan were named the ‘Best Non-Branded Travel Agency Group’ at this year’s NTIA Awards.
Chief Executive, Andrew Macfarlane exclusively told KarryOn he believes its the high achieving nature of the company’s members that contributed to this year’s win.
What does winning the award mean for Magellan?
“It’s a huge achievement for Magellan that means industry-wide validation and the opportunity to remind Agents that there are choices for them in terms of selecting the Group of best fit for their business”.
What travel trends you are seeing at the moment?
“Our Leisure Agents continue to prosper selling cruise, river cruise and tours to the key demographic of baby-boomers/empty-nesters/self-funded retirees.
There seems to be no slowing of the extra-ordinary growth of this segment and they turn to trusted Agents for their travel plans, so repeat and referral is key.
There is also demand for bespoke, tailored itineraries and Agents may turn to boutique suppliers and destination specialists for this.
The Corporate market is generally strong for our TMC members although there is variation State by State and between industry sectors.
Again, corporate customers value tailored solutions and best agents work in partnership with their customers on everything from travel planning to reporting and expense management”.
What’s coming up for Magellan?
Michael Zorbas (Star Alliance), Trevor Jones (Founding Director) Hawthorn Travel & Cruise, Andrew Macfarlane, CEO, Carl Buerckner (Director) Platinum Travel Group, Greg McCarthy Platinum Travel Group
“End of year distributions! We are currently finalising 14/15 year end and expect a record profit in excess of $8M and over 40 percent up on last year.
Our commitment to our members is that this is distributed to them by 31 August with full and transparent reporting
Our Annual conference at The Sofitel in Melbourne this year from 16-18 September will feature a keynote address by Naomi Simpson of Redballoon and TV’s Shark Tank fame along with external expert workshops on HR, Marketing and Financial Management, a Preferred Suppliers showcase and an entertainment program that will highlight Melbourne from the alleyways & cafes to the MCG. It’s going to be a fantastic event”.
What’s the biggest opportunity in travel right now?
“From our point of view we continue to look for how and where we can add value – for customers from planning to purchasing to the travel experience itself, for member agents by enhancing margin, increasing efficiency & sharing best practice and for suppliers by connecting them to the most productive agents in the most cost effective manner.
More broadly the industry opportunity is to remind Australians that travel is more affordable and rewarding than ever.
We want to articulate and demonstrate how we add value as Travel Agents and to develop career paths that attract younger Australians to choose a career in travel”.
