WHY IT RATES: TPI is looking at the broader picture in the industry. Much has changed and agencies continue to evolve as full-service companies. - Rich Thomaselli, TravelPulse Senior Editor
Travel Planners International (TPI) is on a transformational quest in 2016 to better serve its agents, partners, and the industry as a whole.
"We recognize that 80 percent of the industry struggles to effectively market themselves in today's heavy social media and experiential driven environment," said Ken Gagliano, President of Travel Planners International. "To us, it is important to reposition ourselves as not just a host agency in the traditional sense, but as a marketing and support agency for new and experienced travel professionals, as well as a resource for consumers."
At the start of 2016, Travel Planners International jump started its quest and updated its approach, by launching an interactive, consumer-facing website. Transforming from just a portal for agents and suppliers to gather information about TPI, to a robust resource for consumers to research trip options and connect directly to a specialized agent who can book their travel.
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Consumers are able to filter their search by travel and destination specialties, location, and language, as well as leave trip and agent reviews, highlighting an agent's expertise.
"For years, we've heard from our agents and suppliers that they are looking to attract and connect with new travelers. Our new website and direction will do just that!" said Gagliano. "Innovative marketing efforts to reach consumers is important so we help our agents' business continually grow and flourish.
Not only will the travel agent prosper, but the consumer will experience an improved vacation when the planning is taken off their plate. Our specialized travel agents have an endless list of restaurants, activities, must-see sights and places to experience outside the mainstream travel objectives."
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