The success of the ITC model, combined with the hybrid and remote work trend seen across the world since the pandemic, has had a huge impact on the structure of South African travel agencies. In some instances, it has led to lost opportunities for training and mentorship, more complicated supplier relationships, and growing pressure for agents to be available around the clock.
Speaking at the recent XL Travel Conference that took place at Sun Siyam Olhuveli in the Maldives, a panel of industry stakeholders focused on some of the biggest ways agencies have been disrupted in a post-COVID environment.
Supplier accessFor suppliers, home-based consultants have been key to their success, but the model has also made training and relationship more complicated. Robyn Christie , representative of Development Promotions, said: Its given us far more challenges than we ever anticipated just to be able to see those home-based workers who have become very selective about where they go and how they meet with you. We cant just arrive at somebodys home we need to know who they are and get them to our office or coffee shop, which often isnt ideal for product training.
