HELLOWORLD Travel is predicting its fully branded agency network will expand by 20 new members to a total of 300 by 30 Jun 2019.
The forecast expansion was part of an investor presentation in Sydney today, during which the company’s Group General Manager Retail & Commercial, John Constable, highlighted a range of ongoing initiatives including the ResWorld mid office system and white-labelled websites and apps for agents.
On the product side Helloworld is focusing on increasing the uptake of preferred product across the network, along with wider fare content including the addition of a low-cost carrier range.
HLO Executive Director & Head of Wholesale and Inbound, Cinzia Burnes, detailed several current business initiatives including the rollout of impulse buying packages in print and digital media, the relaunch of Ready Rooms and the debut of a new cruise platform in May 2019.
Michael Burnett, Chief Financial Officer, noted operating synergies achieved over the last three years which have seen costs decline from $294m to $260m.
Savings have also been achieved in technology, communication and property since the company merged with AOT, including consolidation of offices.
On the corporate side, Nick Sutherland confirmed the planned expansion into Australia of Go Conference & Incentive, a business events division currently operating in NZ, as well as several “new significant business wins” by the Inspire Travel Management indigenous joint venture since its launch earlier in the year.
Wrapping up, CEO Andrew Burnes reaffirmed current full year profit guidance for Helloworld Travel of $76m-$80m.
Source: traveldaily