Travellers Choice brought its Business Development Managers together this month for high-level briefings designed to ensure the national retail network's members are ready for the changes being ushered in by IATA's New Distribution Capability (NDC) and the soon-to-be-unveiled Qantas Channel.
General Manager Sales Nicola Strudwick says the aim of an intensive three-day gathering was to ensure the group's BDMs understood the new developments and were fully equipped to help members navigate the changes.
"Our BDMs are the first people our members look to for advice and support," says Strudwick. "They ensure that our members, even though they may be independent travel agents, are never alone and always have someone they can call on.
"In times of change, that role is more important than ever, which is why we are focused on ensuring our BDMs have the information and skill sets required to guide members through developments such as NDC and the Qantas Channel."
The Business Development Managers were also apprised of developments in Travellers Choice’s expanding suite of member support services, including recent additions such as the innovative Wetu Itinerary Builder and TC Pay, the group’s package of cost-effective payment solutions.
In addition, this year's gathering saw BDMs receive updates on key preferred suppliers, including Qantas, Sabre and Air Tickets, along with the group's ever-evolving digital and local area marketing support services.
"As always we also explored ways in which BDMs can identify potential high-calibre recruits to the group and connect them with our members, who remain by far our most powerful advocates,' says Strudwick.