Speaking at the Manchester-based tour operator’s annual strategy update in London, managing director Daniel Gathercole presented the company’s growth plans and priorities.

First Class Holidays outlined how it wanted to expand the range of products it offered, provide “exceptional service to the trade” and increase its booking conversion rate.

Gathercole said: “We have had an extremely busy year, from our strong recruitment drive, new reservation and phone system, the relaunch of our South Africa and Islands programme along with the extension of our Canada portfolio into winter and ski.

“New bookings are tracking well above the previous year and we are well equipped for peaks with our experienced reservations team who will be able to offer a 24-hour turnaround on quotes."

Head of marketing Meera Pain revealed online training sessions were well received by agents this year. 

“This is something that we will continue in 2024,” she said. “Agents can access recordings on our revamped agent site at www.fcholidays.com/travelagents along with a wide range of marketing material to help sell our destinations.” 

The tour operator has launched its “Quote and Win” agent competition that will run until the end of the year.

Agents must enter a quote that they have put together for a First Class Holidays customer. 

They can win wine, vouchers and other goodies through a weekly prize draw on Mondays. 

Gathercole added: “We pride ourselves on our destination knowledge, and with our ability to turn around quotes on the same day, we want to encourage all agents to give us a try.  

“They will be in with a chance of winning some great prizes.”