Sabre today announced new programmes to help secure the long-term success of the U.S. travel agency community.
One of the most significant new programmes under these initiatives is the new Simplicity Plan. The Simplicity Plan is designed to help the smaller agencies as they navigate the difficult market that has resulted from the combination of reduced travel, the impact from the September 11 terrorist events, new technologies and increased competition. The new plan from Sabre will help the agencies by providing a simplified contracting arrangement that eliminates booking minimums and the ability to control their costs with new connectivity and hardware solutions. The program also will help smaller, independent travel agencies take advantage of new technologies and revenue opportunities.

“Sabre recognizes that the smaller travel agency market is facing extreme financial pressures. We want to do what we can to help them navigate this difficult period so they will still be in business when the market stabilizes again,” said Ellen Keslzer, senior vice president of Travel Agency Solutions, North America, for Sabre. The Simplicity Plan comprises the following elements for qualified agencies:

—Free access to the Sabre system, and Internet based tools through secure, Internet Protocol (IP) technology

—No booking minimums

—Competitive growth rewards

—Access to innovative Internet-based technologies including Sabre eVoya Webtop, Sabre Cruises and Agency services

“The Simplicity Plan provides an easy way for our smaller customers to develop new revenue opportunities through the Sabre products and our web-based tools. In addition, it provides the chance for them to earn financial rewards from doing what they do best—serving their customers,” said Keszler.

Other recent initiatives for the small to mid-size travel agencies that Sabre has announced include a partnership with ASTA and waiving productivity shortfall fees through the end of 2001. To improve its focus on delivering solutions to meet the specific needs of small and mid-sized agency businesses, Sabre also reorganized its sales and operations staff in the U.S. to form dedicated teams of sales, operations and training experts focused on the unique needs of small-to-medium sized, independent travel agencies. The results of this increased focus include the development of specialized contractual and pricing programs and support services that are targeted to this specific customer base.

“Travel agencies and agents face increased pressures to manage revenue and control costs in our rapidly changing marketplace. Sabre is providing the technologies and resources to help make that happen,” said Keszler.

 

www.sabre.com

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