Selling direct to your customers is not enough to maximise your profits. You need to increase your profits by investing in the right distribution channels.
Why? Because more distribution channels means more ways to reach customers.
Here are 7 distribution channels that you can’t ignore.
The internet is now being used as a purchasing tool by your customers. Make sure that you:
When it comes to social media, make use of TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Twitter.
Online travel agencies (otherwise known as OTAs) increase your online reach by allowing you to use their massive booking channels.
There are 2 OTA giants for tours and activities globally.
Viator:
Expedia:
Many travelers head to Visitor Information Centers to look for recommendations. As the first point of contact for travelers in your area, you want them to recommend your business.
Your government-run website is one of the most valuable listings that you can make for your business. It proves that you are a legitimate business with consistent reviews.
Reviews are so valuable because 93% of global travelers say their booking decisions are impacted by online reviews (Tourism Research Australia).
Make sure you get reviewed on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Viator at the very least.
When done correctly, voucher and daily deal sites can bring you tons of new customers and increase your revenue. In fact, 66 million digital coupons were redeemed industry-wide in 2013 (Voucher Cloud).
Some travelers will have received gift vouchers for tours and activities, or have bought a coupon from a daily deal site. They will redeem their vouchers and coupons when they arrive at their destination. You can always partner with these sites so that your tour is listed.
Make sure that local concierge desks have your brochures and flyers available for people who might be interested in the tours and activities that you offer.
Drop off your brochures at nearby hotels and convince your conciege that it’s a good idea to resell you. You may even want to provide the concierge desk workers with a tour experience with your company so they can provide a first-hand recommendation for your guests.
Our free ebook covers everything tour operators need to know about increasing revenue through local and international distribution:
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