In this week’s retail round-up, The Travel Agent Next Door was honoured by Sandals; Travel Leaders Network and TRAVELSAVERS Canada welcomed new agencies in the first half of 2024; and Ensemble spread its wings Downunder.

TTAND

The Travel Agent Next Door (TTAND) was recently named to the exclusive Million Dollar Club for top producing agencies around the world at a recent ceremony at Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Established in 2002, the Sandals Travel Advisor Recognition (STAR) Awards were created to recognize top travel advisors in the Caribbean tourism ecosystem and pay tribute to those who work behind the scenes in travel.

The 19th edition of the Sandals STAR Awards took place at Sandals’ newest resort in the Eastern Caribbean, Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and also saw TTAND named Best of the Best for top producing agencies across Canada and Top Beaches Agency – Canada.

“Congratulations to The Travel Agent Next Door for their dedication in selling Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts.  Their advisors understand the real value that a Sandals or Beaches vacation provides to their clients.  I’m pleased that their efforts have been recognized and rewarded at the STAR Awards,” said Maureen Barnes-Smith, VP, Sales & Marketing, Canada, Unique Vacations Canada Inc.

Travel Leaders Network

In the first half of the year, Travel Leaders Network says it added 20 new Canadian travel agencies with $70 in supplier sales to its membership roster, joining the 187 new US agencies that signed on from Jan. 1-June 30, 2024.

The travel agency industry has seen a boom in recent years. To capitalize on this trend, travel advisors seek to be part of a network that can provide increased leads and drive higher revenue to their businesses.

“While our membership as a whole is already quite strong, these new travel agencies are crucial additions to our network,” said Roger E. Block, President, Travel Leaders Network. “They bring with them strong travel sales expertise, and I’m eager to see how our offerings enhance their profitability. Their fresh ideas and experiences will bolster our organization as well.”

TRAVELSAVERS Canada

TRAVELSAVERS Canada reports that is has welcomed 17 new agencies, collectively generating $40 million in sales, so far in 2024. This follows massive growth set last year, with a 95% increase in sales.

Additionally, the consortium has forged several new supplier partnerships, including Sandals, Club Med, The Palace Company, and Playa Hotels & Resorts. Another new partner, Just You, offers experiences for the growing market of solo travellers.

Ensemble

Ensemble has announced a new membership collaboration with Helloworld Travel Limited, Australia’s foremost travel company with a network of over 2,400 independent travel agents and brokers across Australia and New Zealand.

“While our primary focus remains North American based, we welcome the opportunity to collaborate with likeminded organizations around the world that share our vision of empowering travel professionals,” said Michael Johnson, President of Ensemble. “Helloworld Travel Limited’s mission and dedication to tailoring personalized and highly curated vacations for clients aligns perfectly with our commitment to supporting advisors through best-in-class programs and resources.”

The program takes effect Aug 1.