2 minute read
Only one year since Traveltek implemented its bespoke tour operating platform for Sandals in-house tour operator, Unique Caribbean Holidays Ltd. (UCHL), the company has reported a significant increase in trade sales of 20%.
Back in April 2017 at the launch of the company’s new brand, UCHL Managing Director, Karl Thompson was positive that Traveltek’s tour operator technology was set to transform their business and noted: “Traveltek has played a major role in helping us achieve our business goals and set us on the right path for future growth in 2017 and beyond.”
Now, a year on, it seems that the UCHL goal has been accomplished. Reflecting on the success of the past year, Thompson commented: “Our business from the UK overall has grown, with the trade business exceeding our expectations. We would like to thank everybody who continues to support us.”
The increase in trade business was aided by the significant number of independent travel agents and chains that use Traveltek’s iSell reservation system such as Hays Travel, Barrhead Travel and Global Travel Group, who were able to access the UCHL products seamlessly.
Over 30% of all agent bookings from April 2017 to date have been made online via the trade booking engine implemented by Traveltek, with many agents booking the all-inclusive resorts for their clients for the first time.
The tailor-made travel technology was built according to a complex brief with the main focus placed on improving the user experience. Customised features, such as flight and price availability calendars which enable agents to see rates on a monthly view, played a major role in achieving this ambition. Design was also taken into consideration, with the inventory now presented to the end user in an appealing and consistent fashion across all customer touchpoints, incorporating UCHL brand values to inspire engagement and loyalty.
The next stage in the process is to give agents the opportunity to book twin and multi-centred holidays on the trade website, following an increase in demand. Traveltek has been working continuously with the brand to ensure that this advanced functionality is delivered.
Thompson added that the operator will continue to investigate buying behaviour and will work with its partners to facilitate how agents want to book their holidays in the future – Traveltek will be at their side every step of the way.
