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Premier Holidays is celebrating a sales boom with holiday bookings up 8% overall for May 2012 compared to May 2011. The UK’s leading independent tour operator attributes high sales to the increased support from the trade and the increase in high revenue bookings across a range of products.
Significantly, high-value bookings were up 17% to Thailand a clear indication that clients are keen to invest in long-haul, high-end holidays.
The number of high-value bookings for Premier Holidays’ USA programme is double that of last year (January – April 2011). Destinations performing well include, Hawaii, California and New York.
"These figures mark an encouraging start to 2012," says Susan Papworth, Managing Director at Premier Holidays. "We attribute a lot of this growth to the rise in special offers from high-end luxury hotels, free nights and some reduced rates throughout the year. Aggressive air fares, particularly with regard to business-class deals – has also encouraged passengers."
Following a recent survey with the UK’s largest independent travel consortium – Advantage, 60% of Premier Holidays reservations staff were rated as excellent. 82% of those surveyed advised the window posters, offers and weekly e-newsletter which Premier Holidays distribute is extremely useful.
"We have seen a huge increase in business from the independent agents – this sector is currently up 16% on last year.
"We are really pleased with the Advantage survey results, especially comments on how ‘efficient and friendly the reservations staff’ are," says Papworth.
Additional feedback from Advantage highlights the good service, well presented quotes and competitive prices Premier Holidays offer.
Premier Holidays is also seeing a shift in booking patterns compared to last year. 34% of holidaymakers booking holidays to the USA are booking four to six months in advance compared to 55% last year.
"Our experienced staff are always on hand to discuss any itinerary or destination with agents. The importance of our relationship with travel agents is vital and we would like to thank all our trade staff for their continued support. We look forward to working together throughout 2012," says Papworth.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.