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We’ve learned a lot over the years not only about what distribution partners want, but also what they need to sell your product through their platforms to travellers. Their knowledge, combined with ours, results in great tips and insights about what works and what doesn’t.
Here’s some of our best advice to ensure your product has the most appeal, and is more likely to be picked up by online travel agents (OTAs) and other online platforms.
1. Be competitive with your rates! The more competitive you are, the more likelihood to increase the potential of distribution partners coming to you instead of looking for better prices elsewhere.
2. Ensure instant confirmation of your products. The new generation of travellers, particularly millennials, expect real-time availability, as well as instant booking options and confirmation online. This is a must for the majority of OTAs who are unlikely to select your product if it’s unable to be instantly confirmed.
3. Set a lower advance booking requirement. Ninety percent of travellers are more likely to book their activities the day prior or same day in-destination. The shorter booking window, the higher the sales opportunities.
4. Make day tours available for free sell, and provide a daily allotment for attractions and/or activities. This prevents overbooking and manages your capacity, while helping you control the number of pax you can comfortably accommodate in a day.
5. Ensure your listing information is complete and up-to-date. Accuracy is very important, especially for instant confirmation products. Make a healthy habit of checking your listings regularly, and apply necessary changes whenever required.
6. Clearly state inclusions and exclusions. Not only will you manage customer expectations, but you will also be able to highlight what makes your product value for money.
7. Be available 24/7 for booking-related enquiries. To assist in a more efficient booking process, make sure your phone lines are easily reachable at any time of the day. This is the easiest way to clarify information and minimise customer complaints.
8. Upload high quality photos. Don’t underestimate the power of great images, especially when they reflect the core activity of your product. Feature travellers where possible enjoying your experience to provide a relatable view for potential guests.
9. Accept mobile vouchers. Instant electronic vouchers remove the need for customers to queue for ticket collection and also save you money on printing costs.
