In an age of technological advancements where consumer convenience reigns supreme, Avoya Travel stands out as a pioneer in the travel industry. Recently, the company introduced the Avoya Live Bookings engine, a groundbreaking booking tool that allows consumers to self-book their cruises while still benefitting from the expertise of professional travel advisors. This innovation not only enhances the customer experience but also shifts the conventional dynamics of travel agencies and their operations.
Avoya Travel has harnessed the latest technology to create its self-service booking engine, which is currently in beta testing. What sets this tool apart is its comprehensive nature; consumers can navigate through a myriad of cruise options directly on the Avoya website. This capability enables potential travelers to curate their own experiences with ease, thus eliminating the tedious back-and-forth often associated with traditional booking methods. The ability for consumers to book directly enhances their engagement with the process, fostering a sense of empowerment and ownership over their travel plans.
Despite being in its nascent stage, the booking engine has already generated a remarkable revenue of over $600,000. This figure signifies a potent market demand for tools that simplify the booking process, especially in a post-pandemic world where consumers are eager to travel but prefer maintaining some level of control over their arrangements. Each booking is handed to Avoya’s independent travel advisors, who assist in personalizing the experience further by providing additional services such as flight bookings, insurance, and accommodation arrangements.
Reimagining Advisor Roles
The introduction of the Avoya Live Bookings engine is not just a win for consumers, but it also redefines the role of travel advisors within the agency. While advisors have traditionally been the primary point of contact for bookings, the new system enables a collaborative environment where both consumers and advisors contribute to the travel planning process. This cooperation allows advisors to leverage their expertise to enhance customer satisfaction and upsell additional services, which can lead to increased commissions.
Jeff Anderson, co-CEO of Avoya, emphasizes the importance of these partnerships, stating that completed bookings will ultimately serve both the independent contractors and the customers. It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement where advisors can engage with clientele even after the cruise booking, ensuring that they become integral to their clients’ broader travel experiences. Such a model not only fosters client loyalty but also maximizes the potential for repeat business in the future.
Avoya Travel is in a period of strategic evolution, seeking to attract more seasoned travel advisors to its ranks. Historically, the company has focused on onboarding newer advisors, but the current strategy targets experienced professionals who can efficiently navigate the complexities of the travel business. This shift indicates a recognition of the value that seasoned advisors bring, particularly within the elite Elite 100 program, which promises 100% commission retention while maintaining a strategic partnership with the host agency.
Additionally, Avoya is investing in its advisors’ growth through the introduction of various incentive programs such as a significant onboarding bonus, showcasing the company’s commitment to attracting top-tier talent. With a staggering 32% increase in commissions year-to-date across its network, and a 44% uptick for those in the Elite 100 program, the financial incentives coupled with the innovative booking engine provide an attractive prospect for experienced advisors looking to expand their opportunities.
As Avoya Travel celebrates its 60th anniversary, it continues to set a benchmark for the travel industry through its innovative approaches and commitment to both customers and advisors. The Avoya Live Bookings engine represents a strategic leap forward, merging technology with personal service in a way that resonates with modern travelers’ desires for both autonomy and expertise. The success of the platform in its beta stage is an encouraging sign of the potential to redefine how consumers and travel advisors interact, ultimately shaping a more efficient and integrated travel booking experience. As Avoya continues to evolve, its focus on strengthening advisory capabilities while leveraging cutting-edge technology will undoubtedly set a new standard for cruise bookings in the years to come.