House of Travel has wrapped up its partners conference in Hobart, at a time HoT ceo Dave Coombes says the role of travel consultants remains as important as ever.
“Technology is developing at pace but our customers want the confidence that comes from dealing with experienced travel consultants who know the destination, understand the product and can help them make sense of an increasingly complex range of options,” he told the delegates.
“When things don’t go to plan, they also want someone in their corner for support. Travel remains a people business.” HoT continues to invest in its e-commerce platform and looks to identify new ways technology can support consultants and enhance the customer experience he adds. “AI and tech innovation have been major topics of discussion at this year’s conference,” says Coombes (pictured).
“We’re already using AI to improve our customer experience and people’s productivity, but we also firmly believe the advent of AI planning is going to bring customers back to book with people they can trust.
Access to information has never been easier, but trust remains critical when customers are making important travel decisions.”
The group has recently opened two new locations, Matamata and Hamilton East, and is looking to recruit and develop ‘exceptional people’. “Our commitment to growing the network reflects our confidence in the value of trusted travel advice.”
