Post-covid the market has seen the ‘rise and rise’ of the independent agent and consultant—and Envoyage New Zealand gm Jason Buckley believes the sector will continue to be the fastest growing area of the market in the years ahead.
“Speaking just on Flight Centre Travel Group, last week’s H1 results show that our independent business now accounts for 19% of the leisure business, up from 3% pre C-19” he adds.
. . . Here To Stay
That said, while the Envoyage stable of brands is growing in New Zealand, Buckley is emphatic that there is no plan to scrap the TMG model. “[Envoyage] has got a stable membership base, there’s been some changes. But one thing that is definitely not changing is our commitment to the TMG brand. TMG is a critical founding member of the Envoyage Network.” Envoyage now has ‘230-plus’ brokers and sub brokers and Buckley says the brand continues to enhance its offering in response to feedback. For example, following the ‘fantastic response’ to its regional roadshows held recently, Buckley says it is committed to under taking those face-to-face meetings in the regions regularly. “Our members are enjoying the updates and are enthusiastic about the new technologies that we’ve brought to market,” he adds. Buckley says Envoyage has also expanded its support team to facilitate further growth initiatives. The TPConnects platform, which is FCTG’s air marketplace platform focused on delivering a full range of air content including NDC, has also been a key focus for the brand and its members, adds Buckley. “We see our investment in TPConnects as vital for our members in a rapidly changing and complex air marketplace…”
. . .Touring Growth
Envoyage New Zealand has got off to a very strong start to the year, says Buckley, noting significant sales for Jan and Feb. “We’re seeing more high-yield, long-haul bookings and while cruise continues to be strong, we’ve also seen a real swing to touring. Our touring sales have seen significant growth.” Buckley credits the touring companies for dispelling misconceptions around the market sector, in part, for the rise in touring demand, as well as the evolved product on offer. In addition to longer trips Buckley says Envoyage clients are also booking multiple long-haul trips a year,
