How important is networking at events such as the ABTA Convention and why?
Getting face-to-face time with our travel agent partners is invaluable, and events like ABTA are wonderful as we can connect with a wide range of agents in one place. In-person networking events such as these allow us to develop our relationships further and gather real-time feedback on ways of working and more. They are also a great opportunity to combine working sessions with social time together.
How is RCCL currently working with the trade?
At Royal Caribbean International, we are always looking for new and innovative ways to support our trade partners. For example, in July of this year, we launched My Royal Genie, an innovative system enabling travel agents to create bespoke digital brochures for their customers including inspirational videos and tailored content. The feedback we have received from trade has been incredible and we’ve seen over 5000 proposals created since the launch. We recently finished our latest competition, The Big Royal Thank You, with our largest prize pot to date of £100,000. Over the course of eight weeks, we had almost 4000 agents interacting, playing and winning – with the grand finale prize of a MG4 EV Electric Car awarded to an agent in Northern Ireland.
Do you have any plans for enhanced trade partner relationships?
Trade will always be at the heart of everything we do, and we’ll continue to do our best to offer fantastic support to agents across the UK. We now have a fully resourced sales team for the UK with new senior account manager roles that are dedicated to fostering new partnerships and business development. We have also launched our new Field Sales team, resulting in some internal promotions as well as hiring new talent into the business. Because of this change, in 2024, we will be able to increase our support to frontline agents and ensure that we are providing them with what they really need. Our continued focus is on investing in agent education in various forms, helping them understand the value of a Royal Caribbean holiday. 2024 will be the first full year we’ll have our EMEA Training Manager, Kristi Reeser, working with our team and we’re developing an extensive and exciting training calendar.
What’s so special about Icon of the Seas?
Icon of the Seas combines the best of beach escapes, resort getaways and theme park thrills into one unforgettable family experience. It is a first-of-its kind combination where every member of the family can enjoy their version of the ultimate family vacation without compromise. It will have adrenaline-pumping thrills, including the largest waterpark at sea, and unrivalled ways to relax with more ocean views and pools than ever before, plus more than 40 new and returning dining, bar, nightlife options, and cutting-edge entertainment.
What are your goals for 2024?
2024 is shaping up to be a year like no other for the brand as we welcome Icon and Utopia of the Seas. The stage is set for an incredible year as we have new talent joining the sales team, alongside new roles and challenges undertaken by deserving existing members. Personally, I endeavour to keep up with my dogs when out for a run so will be dusting off the trainers!
Tags: ABTA Convention, Rebecca Barnes, Royal Caribbean International, Stuart Byron
