Today, Tuesday 6th May, Voyages-sncf has launched a brand new online agent training platform with a dedicated version for Ireland. Agents who complete the interactive course at www.beaeuropeanrailexpert.com also have the chance to win prizes. See http://ireland.voyages-sncf.eu/promo/your-chance-win .
In an interview for the forthcoming April/May issue of Irish Travel Trade News, Paul Lacey, Head of Sales, Voyages-sncf-UK, said: “We are engaging in a number of actions and activities with Irish agents. Our sales managers spent a week visiting agents in the south-west and south-east of Ireland in April and return to Dublin this week.
“We are sending regular communications to promote the product and the news and promotions pages on our website are updated at least once a month to highlight new promotions and opportunities. We have a helpdesk specifically for Irish agents, which they can call for assistance with the booking process, and our agency sales team can be reached by emailing [email protected] . We are currently running a promotion for agents to have the chance to win shopping vouchers in a prize draw.
“Our dedicated Trade team is always happy to discuss with interested agents and tour operators where there might be opportunities for them to expand the rail elements of their business. That could involve promoting First Class travel or developing rail-based tours, thereby enhancing the customer service and product offering for their clients.
“We have had great success with trade partners who have introduced rail-inclusive itineraries or now use rail instead of coach for all or some of their group travel. In 2013 our trade business grew by 23%, further confirming that travel agents are becoming more confident in recommending European rail.”
