Inside Travel Group has seen its highest ever amount of trade sales since creating a dedicated trade sales team at the turn of the year.
All of the nine team members have worked for the operator for at least two years, with a combined 35 years living in Japan.
Head of Trade Gabo Quiros (above) said: “Our trade partners are huge for us and together with the incredible popularity of Japan right now, we want to make it easier for our agents to make those sales.”
Some 40% of Inside Travel’s bookings come from retailers, and the trade sale team makes up about 25% of its total sales force.
“By providing a single point of contact, we won’t be passing agents around, which will allow the expert and agent to build a bond and ensure a more efficient sale and all-round better experience,” added Gabo.
“This highlights our commitment to the trade and helping them sell better.”
The team is led by Senior Team Leader Claire Brothers, who has worked for the company for 11 years. “Japan is so popular at the moment, but we are always able to make time for our agent friends and thankfully, happy customers ensure that our agent partners are already coming back,” she said.
“Last week’s Heathrow crisis also allowed us to show our value as a single point of contact, helping agents and their customers at a time when they might feel slightly helpless.”
The operator also has Holly Brown and Charlie Orr as Business Development Managers, offering training opportunities to agents.
“The trade team has been evolving and developing over the last six months, but as we come out of peak booking season, we are keen to shout about them and their amazing work,” said Gabo.
“The good work is reflected as we have seen the biggest trade sales ever in the first quarter of 2025.”
