Virgin Holidays ditches travel agents
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Virgin Holidays will ditch travel agents and become a direct-sell operator – a move it says will ensure customers receive a “seamless experience”.
The tour operator announced its plans on Friday (October 16) giving its travel agency partners, which represent around 10% of its sales, just 30 days’ notice until they are given the flick.
From the end of November, Virgin Holidays will be sold through the company’s own channels only spanning its online, call centre and new retail store operations.
“By solely focusing on our direct sales channels, we will be able to have a relationship with every customer booking a holiday with us,” said Virgin Holidays managing director Mark Anderson in defence of his decision.
“We are investing in our direct channels, including opening new retail stores around the UK, launching a more intuitive online booking experience and having a dedicated UK-based contact centre. Overall, we’re passionate about providing all of our customers a unique, seamless holiday experience.”
Virgin Holidays recently launched a new type of retail store that has been designed to inspire customers through immersive experiences.
The first two new stores, located at the Bluewater shopping centre in Kent and at the Metro Centre in Gateshead, have been designed to create a landscape of interaction allowing customers to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and shop for holidays in a relaxing environment.
Six more retail outlets are planned in locations including Bristol Cripps Causeway; Lakeside, Essex; Sheffield; and Leeds.
The holiday company also recently celebrated its 30th birthday this month with the launch of a new range of premium holidays called ‘Wonderlist’, dedicated to customers who are looking for a fun and affordable luxury holiday with epic experiences.
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