Research from the National Tour Association continues to show a positive outlook for current business and …
Research from the National Tour Association continues to show a positive outlook for current business and positive projections for future business. Consistent with reports from NTA tour operators, NTA DMO and tour supplier partners also anticipate increases across the board in 2004.
According to the web-based, quarterly survey, 50 percent of NTA tour operators witnessed higher numbers of passengers served and 58 percent reported greater overall sales volume during the first quarter of 2004, as compared to that of 2003.
Such numbers are the strongest reported since September 11.
Looking to the future, 60 percent of NTA’s tour operators also expect greater numbers in the second and third quarter 2004.
“NTA members continue to experience increased business”, said NTA president Hank Phillip, CTP. “Pent-up demand and growing consumer confidence promises that 2004 will be the best year for travel since pre-9/11.”
Results from NTA destination marketing organizations and tour supplier members testify to results from NTA tour operators.
During the first quarter of 2004, 57 percent of tour suppliers recounted a greater number of customers compared to first quarter 2003.
“The fact that the entire membership has extremely high expectations for both the second and third quarter for 2004 is very encouraging”, said Phillips.
According to NTA research, tour operators are beginning to see an increase in their overall sales volume. This graph illustrates the percentage of operators stating their sales volume increased over the same quarter of the previous year.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
