The Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) has launched a new business solution, Travel Associates, for independent travel consultants (ITCs). The model provides a solution for travel agents or entrepreneurs in travel who want to continue running their own business independently and under their own brand name.
In addition to offering ticketing support from Flight Centre, Travel Associates will have access to Flight Centre’s exclusively owned land content, as well as the backing of a financially stable global company.
“We have observed that there is a growing need in South Africa for a new independent travel consultant offering, to help many local independent agents looking for a secure and reputable home, says Andrew Stark, Managing Director Middle East and Africa, Flight Centre Travel Group. “Over the past few years, we have increasingly noticed more travel consultants opt to become independent consultants. Some agents have become independent consultants out of necessity, due to the current environment that has resulted in many job losses, while others have chosen to take the leap now and become independent consultants driven by the need of flexible working conditions plus, the opportunity to run their own business.”
“Looking ahead, we believe there is a new gap in the market to create an added offering which provides financial security to existing travel entrepreneurs who want their business independence.”
“Travel Associates will benefit from Flight Centre’s buying power and have access to a wide range of exclusive travel product and content due to our global footprint. This will allow an associate to offer their clients the best available product and price and, most importantly, the assurance that their bookings are secure.”
Flight Centre Travel Group already has an existing ITC brand, Flight Centre Associates, which has operated successfully since 2013 and comprises over 175 highly experienced Independent Travel Consultants, who run their businesses under the Flight Centre Associates brand. Flight Centre Associates has also recently diversified its personal travel concierge offering by launching a sub-brand specialising in MICE travel: FCA Events and Incentives.
“Flight Centre Travel Group has been operating successfully in South Africa for 26 years. But the world of travel looks vastly different today. We want to empower South Africa’s independent travel consultants not only to survive, but also establish a sustainable business model in this new world of travel where peace of mind will be utmost in their customers’ minds,” concludes Stark.
Interested ITCs can email chantal.gouws@travelassociates.co.za or call Chantal Gouws on 084 548 1606 for more information.
