Independent Travel Experts

• Business model: We operate a model with self-employed contracts. There is full flexibility within ITE, we have a handful of agents who have transitioned into shop premises and this has been fully supported. Agents are able to use the ITE branding, however they are able to choose a trading name along with their own logos, where we are able to accommodate dual branding. The customer data belongs to the agent.

• Costs: There is no joining fee, and just a monthly fee of £59. We waiver up to 25% of the agents credit card fees, across a calendar year. Anything above this amount is chargeable to the agent, at a fee of 1%.

• Commission structure: Upon joining agents receive a 61% commission split. We have a performance incentive scheme in place which enables agents to increase their split to up to 80%. We have two commission options available - the standard commission option, which is payable the month after departure and the upfront commission option, where they receive 50% of the commission split the month after booking and the remaining 50% the month after departure. Commissions are paid on the 9th of each month. Should an agent choose to leave ITE, the commission is withheld until their last passenger travels and they then receive a final bulk commission payment.

• Licenses and memberships: We do have our own ATOL license. We are a TTA member, part of the Travel Network Group. We operate a Trust Account, ensuring 100% financial protection to the customers and their monies. We have over 200 business partners available to the ITE agents, where we hold central commercial agreements. In addition to this, they are able to request for suppliers where we do not hold an agreement to be added, and we ensure that these are set up with full financial protection.

• Training and support:  All agents receive an induction providing an in‑depth business overview, with next steps tailored to experience. New‑to‑travel agents complete a structured 12‑week programme via our online academy, covering business basics, sales skills, product and the customer journey. Ongoing support is delivered by Business Development Managers through regular engagement, webinars, partner training, a monthly open forum, and ITE handles administration on agents’ behalf.

• Sustainability & DEI: ITE is committed to responsible and ethical business practices and is a member of One Carbon World, supporting awareness and engagement around sustainability. We work with a broad, diverse supplier base and share partner‑led training and webinars to help agents identify more sustainable options and serve varied customer communities. At head office, we continually assess our operations and partnerships to improve responsibility and inclusion.

• Technology: Agents are provided with a licence to the VSuite selling platform and are currently transitioning to Vision, a new AI‑powered system exclusive to Travel Network Group members. Agents supply their own laptops and mobile phones. ITE also provides agents with a free 0800 telephone number as part of the support package.