The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) has released its annual Supplier-Travel Agent Marketing Report. Among the findings was the fact that the majority of agencies (69.4%) do not provide incentives to front-line agents for booking with preferred suppliers, the expectation being that travel agents will do what is best for the client and use preferred vendors when appropriate. Those agencies that do provide incentives either give a percentage of the commission (57.7%) to the agent, a FAM trip (27.9%), or some combination of other bonus types.

“This year has reinforced in all of us the importance of strong business partnerships and relationships built on proven reputation,” said Chris Russo, ASTA president and chair. “Research reports such as this and others from ASTA allow travel agents and suppliers to learn how to best maximize resources and leverage partnerships to mutual advantage.”

The report concluded that a strong relationship between suppliers and travel agents is imperative if both sides want to increase the amount of business they generate. This report also found that 94.7 percent of agents who engage in a preferred supplier relationship do so based on the supplier’s reputation and quality of their product. The conclusion can be drawn that suppliers that provide quality products and education have a greater chance of increasing their business opportunities with travel agents.

Among other findings:
•  Use of preferred suppliers was highest for the travel insurance, tour and cruise segments.
•  Most respondents (71.1%) indicated that the economic downturn has made their preferred supplier relationships even more important.
•  Apple Vacations continues to be the top incentive program by participation level. Sandals and Hertz follow as the second and third programs, respectively.
•  The use of airline and hotel Web sites has been slowly increasing these past four years.
•  Close to half of respondents attend one to two trade shows or conferences each year.

ASTA conducted its annual Supplier – Travel Agent Relationship Marketing survey to assist travel agencies and suppliers in understanding and benchmarking typical agency-supplier business arrangements. The survey covered preferred supplier relationships, booking channels used, incentives and the usefulness of supplier education programs.

The survey was conducted in March of 2009 using the ASTA Research Family panel of agencies. The ASTA Research Family is comprised of a representative sample of ASTA member travel agency owners and managers. The report indicates a 95% confidence with an error rate +/- 4.3%.

Premium Members will receive the full 20-page report for free and travel agent members will receive a free two-page summary, but can also purchase the entire report for $250. The cost for ASTA member suppliers is $350 and $550 for non-members. For additional information, please contact mteates@asta.org or visit the research page on ASTA.org.