Inspiring seeks partners

ONLINE tour operator Inspiring Vacations is keen to work with travel agents, in keeping with its “customer-first” mantra which aims to allow clients to deal with the business in whatever manner they prefer (TD 31 Jul).

Co-founder Paul Ryan told TD the fast-growing business, established just 16 months ago, has in fact worked with the trade right from the start, “or actually from day three to be exact”.

Inspiring Vacations doesn’t shy away from its direct relationships with customers, offering 24/7 coverage via its in-house team of expert consultants.

However, that in no way precludes the agency channel, Ryan added, saying “of course we are agent-friendly.

“We love working with agents because in some cases that’s just what the customer wants... who are we to dictate to clients how they should deal with us?” he said.

Ryan noted that the Inspiring Vacations website features a trade portal with a simple sign-on process for agents wishing to sell the company’s small group tours.

Commission is payable on agent bookings, and documentation is issued in the agency’s name.

“We also have a small but growing range of preferred partnerships, offering enhanced commercial arrangements and a closer relationship when it comes to marketing,” Ryan said.

Inspiring Vacations’ trade focus also extends to an in-house agency team, all of whom are experienced travel agents themselves and a National BDM to provide ongoing support to the industry.

“We welcome any agent who wants to align with us, who is passionate about service delivery and providing the best possible customer experience,” Ryan said.