by Donald Wood
Last updated: 11:30 AM ET, Fri February 16, 2018
To help focus on independent and home-based travel agents, Liberty Travel announced the launch of a new host agency division, Independent by Liberty Travel.
Travel agents who decide to sell Independent's platinum range of products to their clients will be eligible to receive a 90 percent commission split, with Liberty only receiving 10 percent of the commission.
In addition, agents will be able to access exclusive hotel, air, cruise and tour package deals from Liberty Travel's parent company, Flight Center Travel Group (FCTG). There will be no hidden fees and agents will not be charged for customer service, invoicing, sales, support or ticketing.
"During travel disruptions due to weather or global events, those who use a travel agent are seamlessly re-routed and rebooked, often before they are even aware their flight was canceled," Independent by Liberty Travel brand leader James N. Bovino said in a statement.
"Those who go it alone can attest to being on hold for hours and then often turn to travel consultants to help with next steps," Bovino continued. "This network addresses a growing need for the expertise to navigate vacation planning before, during and after."
Liberty Travel will also provide online education seminars beginning this spring, dubbed Independent University. The curriculum will include a focus on marketing basics, finance, product offerings and more.
As for the cost, Independent will charge travel agent members an annual fee of $249, plus a monthly service fee of $49.
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