Supplement to Travel Trade

By Jack E. Mannix, CTC
President & CEO

The Member As Shareholder
Ensemble Travel® Group, an organization of professional travel agents, is the leading edge of the industry. We are the only international, member-owned organization with an equally strong presence in both the U.S. and Canada and we are the only such organization to distribute its profits to its members.
One of the most compelling advantages Ensemble Travel Group presents to members is the fact that it’s member owned. Each member has a voice in setting the direction of the organization by electing the board of directors and by participating in regional or national marketing and other committees. Ensemble listens to the needs of each member, and crafts solutions that work for them.

Technology
Over the past three years we have grown our technology offerings for members exponentially, and are on the verge of a major new technology announcement to be unveiled at the International Conference in October. We already create, host, and manage content for more than 400 Ensemble Client Sites for members. This managed Web site solution is a powerful promotional delivery system for suppliers and an online “store” and individual brand builder for members. We also host a content-rich Extranet which provides members with the tools, search and booking capabilities, promotions, and services they need to deliver quick, efficient service to their clients. In addition, Ensemble Travel Group members who utilize the cruise booking engine also have access to TRAMS Live Connect functionality.

An International Training & Networking Forum
Each year, our International Conference leverages the strength of both U.S. and Canadian members in a premier industry event. This year’s much anticipated conference in Cancun, Oct 17-21, “eXcelerate…Powered for Tomorrow” is no exception. A new all-business agenda allows members to see more and learn more with a dedicated focus each day.

Exclusive Vacation Products
In today’s ultra-competitive market, it is critical that travel agents acquire a point of differentiation: the ability to sell unique products to their clients is that essential ingredient. Members enjoy the benefits of access to a rich selection of proprietary products, further enhanced with exclusive amenities to close the sale. These programs include:
The Ensemble® Travel Group Cruise Program — one of the leading programs in the industry, featuring thousands of hosted, promotional, amenity, and theme cruises.
The Ensemble® Villas & Vacation Homes — exquisite accommodations worldwide with exclusive benefits for members’ clients
The Ensemble® Hotel & Resort Collection — A leisure hotel program, offering VIP treatment for clients at more than 350 four-and five-star properties worldwide
Ensemble® On Location — A network of more than 50 in-destination experts around the world, who allow members to offer their clients customized vacations while earning high margins.
Ensemble® Inspired Journeys — Unique hand-crafted, experiential land and cruise programs are hosted by experts.

Marketing…Strong Returns and Greater Identity for Members
Ensemble® Exposures, a just-launched consumer public relations program promoting members, helps them build their own brand awareness and become the recognized travel experts in their local communities. Ensemble Travel Group provides the tools and facilitates the media contacts members need to succeed in this important arena.
Among the new 2008 member marketing programs will be a brand new program fine-tuned to meet the needs of different segments of the luxury market, including the independent traveler looking for high-end experiential offerings.
To match the right product to the right customer for our highly effective direct mail program, we use a sophisticated, state-of-the-art customer segmentation system that classifies travelers into one of 30 customer groups in the U.S.,. This same approach is now being leveraged in the online world through our direct-to-consumer e-mail program.
For more information, our Business Development Manager at (800) 442-6871, Ext. 261.